On the French-German border, this neighborhood is notable for its varied architectural styles and sprawling forested parks.

Robertsau is a residential district framed by the lush forests of the Upper Rhine Valley. Enjoy recreational activities in the open air and admire the neighborhood’s blend of 19th-century and contemporary architecture.

The origins of Robertsau date back 800 years. Its bucolic setting once lured knights, nobility and the upper classes. The River Ill and Rhine River surround the neighborhood the latter acts as the border between Strasbourg and the German town of Kehl.

Make the short journey from the city center to relax in the charming natural environment. Breathe in fresh air while strolling around the wooded English-style Pourtalès Park. The park wraps around the resplendent Château de Pourtalès, a hotel that hosted Napoléon III and Ludwig II of Bavaria, among other esteemed guests. Spot a watchtower and modern art pieces, such as oversized ear sculptures attached to tree trunks, in the park.

The dense forest of Forêt de la Robertsau stretches north and along the banks of the River Rhine. Find campsites, picnic grounds, walking trails and a swimming lake here. A cycle path cuts through the forest and passes rural villages and nature reserves before returning to the city center via the Marne-Rhine Canal.

Spend time mingling with locals in the neighborhood’s commercial center. Elegant timber-framed houses double as guesthouses, restaurants and taverns on Rue Boecklin and Rue Mélanie streets. Visit the austere neoclassical-style Church of St. Louis of Robertsau and the 150-year-old Protestant Church of Robertsau. Petite Orangerie Park is a green oasis nestled amid the bustle of the retail action.

Where Robertsau meets the River Ill is part of Strasbourg’s European Quarter, the site of several European institutions and parliamentary buildings. At Lieu d’Europe learn about the evolution of Europe via multimedia displays narrated by notable European leaders, art expositions and exhibits on human rights.

Central Robertsau is a 20-minute drive east of Strasbourg Station. Ride a tram to the European Quarter. Designated cycleways make the neighborhood a comfortable place to traverse by bike.