La Vancelle is situated on the southern slope of the mountain massif that separates the Val d’Argent from the Val de Villé. The village enjoys a sunny location and is naturally protected from northerly winds by the Massif du Chalmont to the west and the Altenberg to the east. The Altenberg lies east of La Vancelle and reaches an elevation of 855 metres. To the west, the Massif du Chalmont towers over the village and reaches 704 metres.
Anyone looking to find or rent a holiday apartment in La Vancelle can focus their search directly on this destination.
Nature
The Massif du Chalmont is characterised by huge, rugged sandstone blocks and local legends. These include Charlemagne’s treasure, the White Lady and the Pont des Fées. At the summit, a viewing rock offers a view over the entire Lièpvrette valley.
From La Vancelle, the short Circuit du Heyrisheck walking trail leads through the surrounding area. A hiking trail also begins at the Massif du Chalmont. From the car park by the church in La Vancelle, Chalmont is about a 45-minute walk away.
Another circular trail leads to the Rocher du Coucou and the Château du Frankenbourg, offering views over the Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines valley, the Alsatian plain and the Val de Villé. This circular trail begins at the car park by La Vancelle town hall; the castle can be reached from there in about 45 minutes on foot.
Culture
The first documentary mention of La Vancelle dates from 774. In a document issued by Charlemagne, the village is referred to as “Bobolino Cella”.
The historic surroundings include the Château du Frankenbourg in the municipality of Neubois. Access to the path leading to the castle entrance and to the platform of the donjon tower has been closed to the public until further notice by municipal order dated 30 April 2025.
Around 1830, stones from part of the Mur païen were used to build the church in La Vancelle. The Église Saint-Louis in La Vancelle dates from the 19th century.
Villagescape
The local architectural history includes the residential building of the Hurst mill in La Vancelle, which probably dates from the 18th century. The mill also has a carved-wood balcony added in the 19th century.
A park in the centre of La Vancelle has play equipment for children and picnic areas.
Cuisine
The Auberge Frankenbourg in La Vancelle serves French cuisine with innovative and cosmopolitan touches, as well as dishes made from fresh ingredients.
