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.