Le Plan Incline

About

The Plan Incliné of Saint‑Louis/Arzviller is a striking industrial landmark that dates back to 1969. Built to replace a chain of seventeen traditional locks, it uses a hydraulic caisson that climbs a 44‑metre vertical drop along a 136‑metre track, allowing barges to bypass the Vosges Mountains in four minutes. The site, which welcomes about 70,000 visitors and 8,000 pleasure boats annually, features a running machine room and the historic barge‑museum “Sophie‑Marie”. Visitors can walk the high platform, watch the lift in action, and enjoy a short boat or train cruise along the canal. The attraction is open daily from the beginning of April to the end of October (closed on the 1st May). From April to June and September to October the hours are 10:00‑17:00, while in the high‑season months of July and August they extend to 10:00‑18:00. Group tours are available year‑round, with a range of packages that combine a site visit with a boat or train circuit. Le Plan Incliné is an excellent showcase of 20th‑century hydraulic engineering. Its constant motion creates a dynamic spectacle for families, history enthusiasts and engineering aficionados alike. The visit’s small group focus ensures a personal experience, though the operating hours can become busy during summer and the popular “viaduc” boat route.

Highlights

• Historic Caisson Lift
• Sophie‑Marie Barge Museum
• High Platform Observation Deck

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At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes