Steinbach: Mining History, Waterfall and Vineyards

Steinbach can be explored through several specific themes: the mining history of the Saint-Nicolas mine, the climbing area at the Hirnelestein rock, and the waterfall trail and vineyard loop. These highlights differ considerably. At the exposed mine galleries, the focus is on the development of mining techniques; at the Erzenbach, the waterfall, information panels and geological context come together. The vineyard loop, in turn, connects with the Alsace Wine Route.

Mining History and Climbing Rock

The exposed galleries of the Saint-Nicolas mine illustrate the development of mining techniques from the 16th century to the beginning of the 20th century. This long period draws attention to technical changes over several centuries rather than to a single event. If you are interested in the history of mining, this development offers a concise point of reference. It complements Steinbach’s natural and sporting highlights with a historical focus.

The Hirnelestein rock offers a different focus: above Steinbach, it is home to a via ferrata and climbing area. The rock towers over the village and the surrounding plain. The historic galleries and climbing area thus appeal to two clearly different interests. When planning your visit, you can decide whether the development of mining techniques or climbing at Hirnelestein is more important to you.

Waterfall and Geological Nature Trail

The circular trail to the Erzenbach Waterfall starts at the Silberthal clearing in Steinbach. The Erzenbach waterfalls are about a 20-minute walk from the clearing. There are information panels along the trail, and a picnic area is located halfway along the route. The trail is designated as a nature and geological discovery trail. It therefore combines a waterfall route with a focus on explaining nature and geology.

A staircase allows you to cross the waterfall and view it from close up. Together with the information panels and picnic area, this gives you several specific features to use when deciding whether this trail is right for you: its geological focus, the picnic area halfway along the route and the staircase at the waterfall. The walking time refers to the distance from the Silberthal clearing to the waterfalls. Practical trail details may change; check them before your visit.

Vineyard Loop and Alsace Wine Route

The Steinbach vineyard loop connects the vineyard-covered Cote 425 hill with the southern entrance to the Alsace Wine Route. Its focus is therefore on linking a named vineyard hill with the wine route. This distinguishes it from the Erzenbach loop, which is designated as a nature and geological discovery trail and leads to the waterfall.

This distinction is useful when making your choice: the Erzenbach trail focuses on the waterfall, geological context and information panels, while the vineyard loop is defined by the vineyards on Cote 425 and its connection to the southern entrance to the Alsace Wine Route.

Discover more destinations: Soppe-le-Bas, Mittlach, Metzeral, Wasserbourg, Kruth, Levoncourt, Pfastatt, Neuf-Brisach.

Back to the main travel guide: Haut-Rhin.