Grotte du hussard
The place
One of the largest caves in the Vosges du Nord at 275 m, in the commune of Oberhof (Bas-Rhin). Actually a rock shelter carved by erosion (wind, water, frost) rather than a true cave. Not easy to spot, hidden at the far end of a small valley called Thomastal, surrounded by trees — it only appears once you're right in front of the rock face. According to local legend, the cave sheltered a hussar of Napoleon's army during the retreat, hiding from the Cossacks; he is said to have spent years there waiting for the emperor's return, fed by a young woman from the village.
Getting there
Le point de départ conseillé est le village d'Oberhof, secteur de La Petite-Pierre (Bas-Rhin).
The setting
Cavité située à 275 m d'altitude dans le massif des Vosges du Nord (Bas-Rhin), secteur caractérisé par un socle de grès très épais typique du Parc naturel régional des Vosges du Nord.