Nature walk at the Temple du Donon
At the junction of Alsace and Lorraine, the Temple de Donon is a faithful copy of an ancient temple. This listed building was built under Napoleon III at the summit of the Donon massif. Put on your hiking boots and head up to an altitude of 1,009m to admire the temple and its superb panorama up close.
A visit off the beaten track that blends history and nature! 🌿
Thanks to its central location and altitude, the Donon massif very early on became a prime spot for observing the surrounding area and protecting itself from enemies. It was fortified on several occasions.
In Gallo-Roman times, the Donon was dedicated by the Celts to Teutates, and by the Romans to Mercury. This divine character led Napoleon III to have a replica of an ancient temple built there in 1869. The site was fortified again during the First World War by German forces.
This 4.2km round trip will take you to the summit of the Donon from the Maison Forestière du Haut Donon. Along the way, you'll come across stelae, columns and other archaeological remains. The trail is signposted with information panels. The 270m difference in altitude makes it accessible to as many people as possible.
Once at the top, you'll enjoy a magnificent view over the valley. Allow 2h30 for the walk.
The Hôtel Vendôme welcomes you opposite Strasbourg station, just an hour's drive from the Temple du Donon. Our three-star establishment has 48 rooms that can accommodate one to four people: solo travellers, couples, friends, families with children...
Fitted with showers or baths, they are cosy and bright. Breakfast is served in a cosy room with exposed wooden beams. You'll find a varied buffet to please both sweet and savoury eaters. For a moment of relaxation, head to the lounge/bar, which is open 24 hours a day.
A visit off the beaten track that blends history and nature! 🌿
A mountain occupied since prehistoric times
A site that has survived the ages
Thanks to its central location and altitude, the Donon massif very early on became a prime spot for observing the surrounding area and protecting itself from enemies. It was fortified on several occasions.
In Gallo-Roman times, the Donon was dedicated by the Celts to Teutates, and by the Romans to Mercury. This divine character led Napoleon III to have a replica of an ancient temple built there in 1869. The site was fortified again during the First World War by German forces.
The "Donon, Sacred Mountain" theme trail
This 4.2km round trip will take you to the summit of the Donon from the Maison Forestière du Haut Donon. Along the way, you'll come across stelae, columns and other archaeological remains. The trail is signposted with information panels. The 270m difference in altitude makes it accessible to as many people as possible.
Once at the top, you'll enjoy a magnificent view over the valley. Allow 2h30 for the walk.
Your hotel in Strasbourg
The Hôtel Vendôme welcomes you opposite Strasbourg station, just an hour's drive from the Temple du Donon. Our three-star establishment has 48 rooms that can accommodate one to four people: solo travellers, couples, friends, families with children...
Fitted with showers or baths, they are cosy and bright. Breakfast is served in a cosy room with exposed wooden beams. You'll find a varied buffet to please both sweet and savoury eaters. For a moment of relaxation, head to the lounge/bar, which is open 24 hours a day.
