Tour du Grand Wintersberg, observation tower in Niederbronn-les-Bains, France
Tour du Grand Wintersberg is a sandstone observation tower standing about 25 meters high on the highest point of the Northern Vosges, at an elevation around 581 meters. Its narrow cylindrical form, nearly 5 meters wide, is built from local stone that matches the surrounding rocks and forest floor.
The tower was built between 1889 and 1890 by the Club Vosgien, an association founded to mark trails and open the hills to walkers. It replaced a simpler lookout and gave the growing number of hikers a solid landmark on the ridge.
The nearby chalet at Col de la Liese opens on Sundays and public holidays, where walkers gather for a drink and a simple snack before or after climbing the tower. This habit of meeting at the small wooden shelter keeps the local hiking tradition visible and easy to join.
Wear sturdy shoes because the last stretch follows forest paths with uneven stones and roots, especially after rain. Mornings with clear skies give the best visibility from the top, and the site remains open regardless of the season.
On a clear day, the view from the top stretches as far as Strasbourg Cathedral, which appears as a thin upright line on the horizon. Visitors often notice how the tower’s narrow interior feels cool even in summer because of the thick sandstone walls.
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