Vieux-Thann, Commune in Alsace, northeastern France
Vieux-Thann is a small commune in Alsace, in northeastern France, close to the borders with Germany and Switzerland, at the mouth of the Thur Valley. The streets are narrow, the buildings are made of stone and wood, and the town center holds a church called Saint-Dominique along with a town hall and a couple of local squares.
Vieux-Thann was once part of the Holy Roman Empire before it eventually became part of France. In earlier centuries it was known for small industries such as textile making and local crafts, and some of its stone buildings date back to the 16th or 17th century.
Vieux-Thann sits at the entrance of the Thur Valley and marks the starting point of the Route des Vins, a trail that winds through vineyards and old villages with timber-framed houses. Along the way, visitors can spot wine cellars and farm buildings where local wines are offered for tasting.
Vieux-Thann is easy to reach from nearby cities by road, and parking is available close to the town center. Local bus lines connect it to other parts of the region, making a day trip straightforward to plan.
From the Rocher du Hirnelestein, a rock formation above the town, walkers can look down on Thann and its historic church after resting at an old shelter built along the path. The trail up passes through broad-leaved woods, orchards, and vineyards, making each section of the walk feel different.
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