Visit the replica of the Lourdes Grotto in Wettolsheim
Nestled in the charming village of Wettolsheim, a stone's throw from Colmar, the replica of the Lourdes Grotto is a must-see on the Alsace Wine Route.
Less well-known than its illustrious Pyrenean counterpart, this Alsatian grotto nevertheless attracts many visitors seeking spirituality or simply curious about the replica.
It's also an opportunity to explore the many nearby hiking trails.
Built in 1912 by the Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes, born in Wettolsheim, this replica faithfully reflects the famous Massabielle Grotto in Lourdes.
It quickly became a place of gathering and contemplation in Alsace.
It features a statue of the Virgin Mary, identical to the one in Lourdes, surrounded by plaques of thanks left by pilgrims touched by the grace or beauty of the site. The Immaculate Conception rests on a stone quarried from Lourdes on the very spot where Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette in 1858.
Every year, the site hosts religious processions, such as Corpus Christi, particularly in May, dedicated to Mary.
The grotto also houses the Wettolsheim war memorial and pays tribute to the victims of 1914-1918 and 1940-1945.
Located away from the center of Wettolsheim, the grotto is easily accessible on foot via a small marked trail.
It is surrounded by benches and a wooded area where you can rest and recharge your batteries.
It's an ideal family outing to discover a little-known aspect of the regional heritage in a bucolic setting.
Access to the replica of the Lourdes Grotto is free all year round.
The site does not have a dedicated parking lot, but parking is available on the streets of Wettolsheim.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the cave.
Nestled in the heart of the vineyards, the La Palette hotel-restaurant invites you to take a refreshing and gourmet break.
Drop off your bags in one of our 16 rooms surrounded by a wooded park and admire the view of the Vosges Mountains.
When you wake up, breakfast is served every morning from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on weekends.
For your excursions, feel free to order a picnic basket, available upon reservation the day before.
Our restaurant, La Palette, offers a seasonal menu featuring quality local products.
Free, secure private parking is available for your vehicle.
Less well-known than its illustrious Pyrenean counterpart, this Alsatian grotto nevertheless attracts many visitors seeking spirituality or simply curious about the replica.
It's also an opportunity to explore the many nearby hiking trails.
The Wettolsheim Grotto, a pilgrimage site inspired by Lourdes
Built in 1912 by the Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes, born in Wettolsheim, this replica faithfully reflects the famous Massabielle Grotto in Lourdes.
It quickly became a place of gathering and contemplation in Alsace.
It features a statue of the Virgin Mary, identical to the one in Lourdes, surrounded by plaques of thanks left by pilgrims touched by the grace or beauty of the site. The Immaculate Conception rests on a stone quarried from Lourdes on the very spot where Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette in 1858.
Every year, the site hosts religious processions, such as Corpus Christi, particularly in May, dedicated to Mary.
The grotto also houses the Wettolsheim war memorial and pays tribute to the victims of 1914-1918 and 1940-1945.
A Visit Surrounded by Nature, Accessible to All
Located away from the center of Wettolsheim, the grotto is easily accessible on foot via a small marked trail.
It is surrounded by benches and a wooded area where you can rest and recharge your batteries.
It's an ideal family outing to discover a little-known aspect of the regional heritage in a bucolic setting.
Practical Information
Access to the replica of the Lourdes Grotto is free all year round.
The site does not have a dedicated parking lot, but parking is available on the streets of Wettolsheim.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the cave.
Your hotel in Wettolsheim
Nestled in the heart of the vineyards, the La Palette hotel-restaurant invites you to take a refreshing and gourmet break.
Drop off your bags in one of our 16 rooms surrounded by a wooded park and admire the view of the Vosges Mountains.
When you wake up, breakfast is served every morning from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on weekends.
For your excursions, feel free to order a picnic basket, available upon reservation the day before.
Our restaurant, La Palette, offers a seasonal menu featuring quality local products.
Free, secure private parking is available for your vehicle.
