The site was historically used by the Bishops of Strasbourg as a secure treasury to hide important documents and assets during unrest.
The 'Pont du Diable' consists of a single stone arch suspended between two separate sandstone towers.
Construction spans centuries, with foundational layers dating to 1100 and significant 16th-century fortification upgrades.
The castle served as a key signaling station, utilizing optical telegraphy lines in the late 18th century.
The rock outcrops are natural red sandstone formations that were carved to serve as the castle's foundation and walls.
Château du Haut-Barr is a 12th-century fortress situated on three sandstone rock formations overlooking the Zorn Valley. Known as the 'Eye of Alsace,' its strategic position provided surveillance over the plains and the pass connecting Strasbourg to Lorraine. The ruins consist of two residential buildings, a chapel, and a fortified courtyard dating from the medieval period. The most iconic feature is the Devil's Bridge (Pont du Diable), a narrow stone span connecting two rock pinnacles. Built by the Bishops of Strasbourg, the castle served as a defensive stronghold and a refuge during conflicts. Visitors can explore the preserved masonry, staircases, and wall remnants via designated footpaths. The site remains an open-access outdoor archaeological monument integrated into the Vosges forest landscape. It is maintained by a local association and the municipality of Saverne.
The view from the top of the main tower looking down at the Devil's Bridge and the valley floor.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the ground consists of uneven rock, sand, and forested trails.
Bring a flashlight if you intend to explore the darker, narrow staircase passages within the ruins.
Visit during a weekday to avoid crowd congestion on the narrow Devil's Bridge walkway.
Do not attempt to walk across the bridge during high winds or heavy rain, as the sandstone becomes slippery.
Open year-round, though paths may be restricted during extreme winter weather or emergency masonry maintenance.
Stay within marked pathways to prevent erosion and avoid climbing on fragile wall ruins.
