Another cool but sunny start to the walking day.  The hotel in Dambach was right in the centre of the tiny village next to a very large church – no danger of sleeping in with the church bells next door.

We set off through vineyards, taking a high route which ultimately took us to Chateau du Haut Koenigsbousee photos), but past another ruined chateau first.

Parts of the path we were walking are part of the long distance pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, so some of the way our way marks were scallop shell symbols.

After a climb, stopped at a monkey park for a beer and frites lunch – all the food groups!  Then upwards through woods again to the restored chateau.  While it lengthened our walking day, the chateau is really impressive, with views over the broad valley.  It was restored by Wilhem II at the turn of the twentieth century in a feat of engineering for its time.

Then a relatively gentle descent to St Hippolyte, firstly through woods and then through vineyards again.

We were very happy to reach the hotel after a long days’ walk.  We were on half board so didn’t have to go anywhere else for dinner.   Dinner in the Michelin recommended restaurant was a fish course, veal, local cheeses and sorbet with a roasted peach matched with local wines.