Seltz Between Nature and History

Seltz combines protected wetlands with leisure activities and historic sights. This offers several starting points for planning your trip: you can explore the Sauer Delta, plan outdoor activities or learn about the town’s history.

Nature at the Sauer Delta

The Sauer Delta nature reserve extends across 486 hectares between Seltz and Munchhausen. It protects Rhine wetlands, including the mouth of the Sauer, meadows and reed beds. If you are interested in landscapes, you will find a clearly defined natural area here: the protected grounds encompass a variety of habitats, stretching from the river mouth to meadows and reed beds.

There are also nature-oriented places to visit within Seltz. You can discover numerous tree species in the botanical garden, which also has play and picnic areas. Both the plants and the opportunity to take a break in the garden are highlights.

Another destination is the 2.5-hectare body of water, fed by the Alsatian groundwater supply. It is considered an important fly-fishing destination in Alsace. Fish species found here include rainbow trout, carp, tench, roach, perch and pike. If you plan to fish there, check the local access rules in advance.

Leisure and Outdoor Activities

At the Plage – Centre de plein air, you will find a sandy beach and leisure facilities such as volleyball, football, pétanque and table tennis. The site also has a play area for young children. Swimming is supervised in July and August; in June, supervision is provided only on weekends. As these details are subject to seasonal conditions, it is advisable to check the current dates before your visit.

For cyclists, Route No. 24 runs from Haguenau via Betschdorf, Hatten and Seltz to Rastatt. From Seltz, it continues across the Rhine by cable ferry to Rastatt. If you are planning this cross-border route, check the current signs and ferry service.

Discover Seltz’s History

The Musée Krumacker – Centre historique et culturel is located in the basement of the Seltz tourist office. It presents the history of the town, from the Celts and Romans to the time of Empress Adelaide around the year 1000. Exhibits include a Celtic bronze sword and Roman archaeological finds. The long time span and specific artefacts give the museum visit a historical focus. Check the current opening details in advance.

Another testament to the town’s history is the Catholic Church of Saint-Étienne. Its medieval section comprises the choir, sacristy and two chapels. The polygonal choir probably dates from the late 15th century; the building was renovated in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The church, including the entire floor, the painted reliefs on the west façade, the north porch and the campanile, was listed as a Monument historique by decree of 9 March 2006.

The Sentier d’interprétation des tumuli is located in the Hesselbusch forest towards Hatten, near the motorway access road. Information panels are available in French and German; parking is also available for cars and buses, and access is free. Check local access information and conditions before visiting. An old Roman road that connected Seltz with Altenstadt ran alongside the tumuli. This historic connection should be distinguished from the location of the trail: the road’s route does not establish that the present-day path follows it.

Discover more destinations: La Petite-Pierre, Osthouse, Wingen, Oberbronn, Lichtenberg, Blienschwiller, Dorlisheim, Kertzfeld.

For an overview of the wider area: Bas-Rhin.