Benfeld: Heritage, Plane Trees and the Ill

Benfeld combines cultural and historical sights with riverside paths and seasonal swimming. When looking for a hotel, you can decide whether local history, walks or time at the Plan d’eau should shape your stay. Road and rail connections are also factors to consider; visiting conditions vary from one attraction to another.

The Town’s History at the Museum and Town Hall

At the Musée et Maison du patrimoine, you can see archaeological finds, collections of old documents and a model of Benfeld as it looked in 1631. The exhibition presents artefacts and historical documents alongside a depiction of the town at a specific point in time. Admission is free; visitors can explore independently, while group tours are available by prior arrangement.

The town hall’s Jacquemart clock dates from 1620 and features three automata carved from oak: Prudentia, la Mort and Justitia. The clock offers a tangible example of Benfeld’s historical heritage. During the season, you can visit the town hall and Jacquemart on a guided tour by reservation. Check availability for your intended visit.

Synagogue on Rue de la Dîme

The synagogue on Rue de la Dîme was first built in 1845 and expanded in 1875 with two side galleries. It is decorated with frescoes by artist Achille Metzger, dating from 1922. It holds a special place in the history of synagogues in Alsace: it was the only synagogue in Alsace not desecrated by the Nazis. Its construction phases and frescoes reflect different periods in its history.

Plane-Tree Avenue and Paths Along the Ill

The Allée des Platanes begins in Benfeld near Rue de la Digue and runs along the Muhlbach, an arm of the Ill, as far as Huttenheim. Of the 49 plane trees lining the avenue, the oldest were planted more than 200 years ago. In June 2017, the avenue received the “Arbres Remarquables” label, awarded by the ARBRES association. Its route and old trees give this path a character of its own.

The banks of the Ill in Benfeld are ideal for family walks and moments of relaxation. The Circuit de l’Ill offers a different focus: the route highlights the importance of the Ill as the largest river in Alsace, and three structures can be seen along the way. The distinction is clear when choosing between them: the riverbanks are best for walks and relaxation, while the Circuit focuses on the river and its structures.

Seasonal Swimming with Lifeguard Supervision

Benfeld’s Plan d’eau has a landscaped sandy beach, a table-tennis table, a volleyball court and changing facilities. Swimming in the beach area is supervised from mid-June to the end of August. This period is important when planning a swim; check current opening dates before you travel. This makes it easy to plan seasonal swimming as a distinct part of your stay, separate from walks and cultural and historical visits.

Consider Connections When Choosing Where to Stay

Benfeld is on the RD1083 and a railway line, giving it excellent road and rail connections. If you are considering Benfeld as a place to stay, you can weigh these connections alongside its cultural and leisure offerings. You can choose between different focuses for your trip: historical sights, walks along the Ill or a seasonal visit to the Plan d’eau.

Discover more destinations: Langensoultzbach, Wingen-Sur-Moder, Kertzfeld, Lembach, Gundershoffen, Bernardvillé, Gunstett, Duttlenheim.

Return to the regional travel overview: Bas-Rhin.