Schoppenwihr park

A bucolic setting

Imagine a simple Alsatian home in the 1750s, gradually surrounded by a lovingly designed park, where a small river is cleverly diverted to form the first of a series of ponds that will become the backbone of the garden. Over time, this first pond was joined by three others, each new pond adding to the beauty and biodiversity of the site.

At its height, around 1900, the park was an aquatic symphony where the water reflected the sky and surrounded picturesque islands, adding an almost mystical dimension to the place. But the story of Schoppenwihr's ponds doesn't end there. After the Second World War, despite the immense damage caused by the fighting, the ponds, as well as the park, were restored with particular care.

Today, the Grand Étang and its romantic islands remain key attractions. Île des Demoiselles, with its remains of a small temple of love, offers a breathtaking view of Ribeauvillé's three castles, while the shimmering waters provide a haven for a myriad of plant and animal species.

Each pond, with its own character and unique perspectives, tells part of the story of Schoppenwihr, continuing to enrich this landscape of striking beauty and enchanting peace.

Some additional information

• the park borders the main road... and when you drive along it, it's noisy
• pets are not welcome
• picnics are prohibited

Well, I don't think the sandwich police are going to stop by. I figure it's mainly to avoid having to deal with waste or disturb biodiversity that these rules have been put in place.

International Plant Festival

I couldn't miss the spring plant festival, as this was the occasion for my visit to the park.

This year's Plant Festival brought together a myriad of enthusiastic exhibitors from the four corners of Europe. From botanical treasures to artistic gems, there was something for everyone. Bonsai enthusiasts were delighted to discover the wonders of Rouffach's Seijaku Bonsai Club, while aficionados of Japanese floral art were delighted by Au Fil des Pièces' collection of Ikebana and Kusamono.

Flowers were in the spotlight at Ferdinandushof, with its impressive collection of dahlias, and at Le Jardin de la Roche Saint Louis, where enthusiasts of rare perennials were able to unearth botanical treasures. But it wasn't just a festival of plants, as exhibitors such as Bleu Métal dazzled visitors with their ornamental metal objects, while Nath Céramique captivated with its contemporary ceramic creations.

For those in search of rare plants, objets d'art or simply an enriching botanical experience, this plant festival had something to satisfy every green curiosity.

To sum up

What's really appealing about this place is its sheer excess. The endless driveway, the towering trees, and the number of places to take a nap in the shade. If you're going to be there, you'll be lounging by the water in the shade. No doubt it will be very refreshing in the middle of summer.

However, I find the price a deterrent. I fully understand that each visitor contributes to the upkeep of the site, but for a family outing, that's going to add up fast.

A good discovery for me in any case!