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Wildlife watching
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We meet at 11am at Metzeral station. After meeting the group and being briefed by the guide, we set off from the station, where the route first crosses meadows and then rises gradually through forests and high-altitude pastures. The climb is steady and accessible, with breaks to take a breather and enjoy the panoramic views of the Vosges peaks. We take a picnic break along the way.
We pass over the Hilsenfirst pass, at an altitude of over 1,100 metres. This site, marked by the history of the First World War, is now quiet and little frequented. A few discreet remains are a reminder of this period.
The descent to the Mountain hut is swift and we arrive at our mountain hut in the late afternoon, well situated with a beautiful view of the ridges. After settling in, we prepare an Alsatian-style dinner together. The Mountain hut is run by volunteers: the atmosphere is simple and friendly, with a communal kitchen and a spirit of participation.
After a shared breakfast at the Mountain hut, we set off for a day of exploration around the massif. This outing is devoted to discovering the environment and looking for signs of deer presence: footprints in the mud, hairs clinging to branches, rubbing marks on trunks or left on the ground.
Your guide will teach you how to observe and interpret these signs. It's a real introduction to reading nature. The aim is to find a favourable area for stalking the following morning.
Throughout the day, you'll also learn about the special features of the Vosges mountains: their high-altitude stubble fields, mixed forests and mountain traditions. Depending on the shape of the group, the itinerary may be slightly longer or shorter.
At the end of the day, return to the Mountain hut, prepare dinner together, then take a short evening walk around the Mountain hut to listen to the first brambles. This outing is accessible and close to the Mountain hut.
The alarm goes off well before sunrise. After a quick snack (biscuit and coffee), we set off by headlamp towards the spot spotted the day before. The approach is made in silence.
We sit in the shelter of the trees, on the edge of the clearing, watching and listening. Stalking requires patience: the wait can last a few minutes or longer. The guide keeps the group discreet so as not to disturb the wildlife. With a bit of luck, you might hear a stag in full bramble.
Around 9am, we return to the Mountain hut for a well-deserved mountain brunch. After packing up, we start the descent to Metzeral station. The descent is gradual and accessible. Depending on the energy of the group, a short panoramic diversions may be offered before returning to the valley.
The tour ends at the station at around 4pm.
German
French
EnglishBetween the vineyards of Alsace and the mountains of the Vosges, I grew up in the heart of an area rich in nature, tradition and character. I've always had a passion for the mountains and the outdoors, so I decided to become a mountain guide to help people discover these landscapes, their history and their secrets. Through authentic and friendly holidays, I share my love of the Vosges and the pleasure of experiencing the mountains through the seasons.
Do you want to avoid traffic jams and travel in peace? The train is your ally. Here are the connections you need to make:
Do you prefer the freedom of a road trip? You can go directly to Metzeral train station, the meeting point for the expedition.
Parking is available on site so you can leave your vehicle there for the duration of your stay.
Consider carpooling: a WhatsApp group will be set up 10 days before departure so you can organize with the other participants.
Choose your departure date and number of participants
In the case of a deposit, the remaining amount will be debited from your account before departure.
The opinions of our participants who have placed their trust in us
Yes, that's right! At checkout, you can choose the Alma option to pay for your booking in 2x, 3x or 4x. All you have to do is select Alma at checkout and follow the instructions. It's simple, fast and secure.
Yes, all our expeditions can be privatised for a group already formed, on the dates of your choice.
To make your request, go to the expedition that interests you and click on "Privatise the expedition". We'll take care of the rest!
At Wildhartt, nature is our playground, rain or shine. Rain, snow or wind: our guides adapt the itinerary, activities and accommodation to guarantee you the best possible experience.
Unless safety is at stake (storm, avalanche, flood...).
In this exceptional case, we can cancel an expedition, at least one week before departure.
If this happens:
→ You can postpone your adventure at no cost,
→ Or receive a full refund.
You don’t need to be a top athlete or adventure expert to feel at home. Most Wildhartt participants are between 25 and 60 years old, with a balanced mix of women and men.
Many join solo or in small groups of two or three. They often live in cities and are looking for a meaningful brea some time to reconnect with nature, slow down, and enjoy something real.
They usually have a regular movement practice (hiking, running, yoga...), but not with a competitive mindset. They’re in good shape, but don’t necessarily have technical skills. What brings them together is a shared desire to disconnect, observe, learn, and experience nature in a more grounded, accessible way.
If that speaks to you, you'll feel right at home. The group spirit is kind and open, and the pace adapts to everyone.
At Wildhartt, transparency is essential. The price of your expedition reflects a clear breakdown of costs:
Our priority: to offer you a quality experience, with complete clarity.
Do you have any questions? Contact us.
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September to October
Level 2
Eco-score 4/5
Three days of immersion in the Petit Ballon massif with an experienced Vosges guide, to learn how to read tracks, decipher rubbing on trunks and understand the behaviour of deer at the height of the slabbing season.
Return transport to our meeting point.