Muttersholtz

Muttersholtz is a commune in north-eastern France, in the Bas-Rhin department of the Grand Est region, sitting within the Ried – a broad expanse of wet meadows, former river channels and riparian forests in central Alsace. The commune's coordinates are roughly 48.257°N, 7.521°E. In 2017 Muttersholtz was named France's biodiversity capital, a title that captures what the place is really about: it works as a gateway to the Ried's natural environments rather than a conventional heritage-town destination.

What can you see here?

The focal point of Muttersholtz's nature-focused identity is the Maison de la Nature du Ried et de l'Alsace Centrale, located at 35 Ehnwihr. It's an environmental education centre dedicated to introducing visitors to the natural habitats of the Ried – flood meadows, old Rhine river arms, riparian woodland and the wildlife tied to them. The centre runs guided visits, themed workshops and nature walks aimed at a range of audiences, from families with children to adults with a deeper interest in the region's ecology.

During school holidays the Maison de la Nature adds extra programming – outings along Ried trails that mix local village history with tastings of farm produce, plus more adventurous formats such as overnight stays in tipis or on an island in the Rhine. That combination makes it appealing both to day visitors and to people looking for a longer, more immersive stay in nature.

How do you get there?

Muttersholtz sits close to Sélestat, one of the larger towns in the area. The Sélestat–Muttersholtz link can be covered by a dedicated cycle path in around 20 minutes, making it a practical alternative to driving, especially in the warmer months. For those travelling by car, the commune is easily reached via the main roads connecting Sélestat to the surrounding network of Bas-Rhin villages.

What else is worth combining with a visit?

The area around Muttersholtz offers several attractions that pair well with a stop at the Maison de la Nature. Nearby you'll find Sensoried, La Volerie des Aigles (birds-of-prey shows), the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, La Montagne des Singes, and Cigoland – a theme park built around a stork reserve. The wider region is also dotted with small churches and chapels typical of rural Alsace, worth a look on the way between stops.

Muttersholtz works best as a base for a day or two focused on the Ried's natural landscape and easy cycling routes through central Alsace, rather than as a destination built around historic monuments in its own centre.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Ried, and how is Muttersholtz connected to it? The Ried is a large area of wet meadows, old river channels and riparian forest in central Alsace. Muttersholtz sits at its heart, and the Maison de la Nature du Ried et de l'Alsace Centrale exists specifically to explain this ecosystem to visitors.

Is the Maison de la Nature suitable for children? Yes. The centre offers guided tours, workshops and nature walks designed for different age groups, including families, and during holidays it adds more adventurous options such as tipi overnight stays.

What's the best way to get there from Sélestat? A dedicated cycle path connects Sélestat and Muttersholtz, covering the distance in about 20 minutes — a convenient option especially in spring and summer.

What other attractions pair well with a visit to Muttersholtz? Nearby options include the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, Cigoland, La Volerie des Aigles and La Montagne des Singes, all within reach of a single day trip.