Place des Six Montagnes Noires, Colmar

Area, Fountain and Square in Colmar

Place des Six Montagnes Noires
Place des Six Montagnes Noires
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007

Place des Six Montagnes Noires is a small, atmospheric public square in central Colmar, set right at the edge of the Old Town and often treated as a natural “threshold” into the Petite Venise area. It's an easy stop on foot, with cobblestones underfoot, historic façades around you, and a steady flow of walkers heading toward the canals.

If you're doing a self-guided walking tour of Colmar, this square works beautifully as a checkpoint: pause here, orient yourself between Grand-Rue and the lanes leading toward the water, then continue toward the most photogenic canals and bridges nearby. It's also one of the best places to get a quick sense of Colmar's compact layout before you dive into the busier riverside streets.

History and Significance of the Place des Six Montagnes Noires

Place des Six Montagnes Noires is a long-established public space in Colmar's central district, connected to several key streets that stitch together the historic core. Because it sits near major pedestrian routes, it has functioned for generations as a practical meeting point and a transition zone between shopping streets, residential lanes, and the waterways leading into Petite Venise.

The square’s name is tied to local history: it references a former hospitality establishment known as “Zum Schwarzenberg,” which once stood in the area. Over time, the square became known not just as a crossroads, but as a place where Colmar’s civic memory is expressed through monuments and everyday street life.

One of the most meaningful elements of the square is its commemorative centerpiece: the Roesselmann Fountain, which honors Jean Roesselmann, a figure associated with the defense of Colmar in the medieval period. Even if you're not doing a deep historical dive, the monument gives the square a clear sense of identity beyond being “just” a pretty stop.

Things to See and Do in the Place des Six Montagnes Noires

Start with the Roesselmann Fountain at the center of the square. It’s the natural focal point for photos and a good place to pause and look outward in every direction: you’ll spot the lanes that lead toward Petite Venise, plus the streets that pull you back into the Old Town’s shops and architecture.

Next, use the square as a navigation hub for a short loop walk. From here, it's easy to drift toward the canals for classic Colmar reflections, then return via a different street to catch alternate façades and storefront details. If you're traveling with limited time, this is a smart “high impact” area where you can see a lot without committing to a long itinerary.

Finally, treat the square as a flexible break point. It's a convenient place to regroup during a walking tour, decide whether to continue toward the riverside viewpoints, or pivot back toward the denser Old Town streets if the Petite Venise paths feel crowded.

How to Get to the Place des Six Montagnes Noires

The nearest major airports are EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP) and Strasbourg Airport (SXB), with additional options via Zurich Airport (ZRH) if you're building a wider Alsace itinerary. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Colmar on Booking.com.

Colmar is well connected by rail, and arriving by train is often the simplest choice for visitors planning to explore the center on foot; from Colmar station, you can walk or take a short local connection toward the Old Town. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

If you’re traveling by car, aim for public parking on the edge of the historic center and finish the last stretch on foot to avoid tight streets and limited access zones. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Place des Six Montagnes Noires

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning for quieter photos and easier walking, or late afternoon when the light flatters the façades on the way toward Petite Venise.
  • How long to spend: 10–25 minutes is enough for the square itself, but plan 60–90 minutes if you’re using it as the start of a Petite Venise loop.
  • Accessibility: The area is generally walkable, but expect cobblestones and uneven surfaces that can be tiring for wheels; take it slow and choose smoother side paths where possible.
  • Facilities: There are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby in the Old Town, but public toilets and benches can be limited—plan short comfort stops as you go.

Where to Stay Close to the Place des Six Montagnes Noires

Base yourself in central Colmar (Old Town/Petite Venise edge) if you want to walk everywhere and enjoy early-morning and evening atmosphere without transport planning.

Hôtel Le Maréchal A classic choice right by the canals, ideal if you want a romantic, postcard-style Colmar stay within a short stroll of the square.

Hôtel Saint-Martin A strong central pick for travelers who want to be steps from major Old Town streets, with easy access to the square and plenty of dining nearby.

James Boutique Hôtel A stylish, modern-leaning option that balances comfort and location—great if you want a quieter night while staying close to the action.

Hôtel Turenne Convenient for drivers and practical travelers, with a straightforward walk into the center and a good base for day trips around Alsace.

Ibis Styles Colmar Centre A dependable value-oriented stay near the station-side approach to the center, useful if you’re arriving by train and want predictable amenities.

Is the Place des Six Montagnes Noires Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you're exploring Colmar on foot. It's not a “ticketed attraction,” but it's a highly useful and scenic waypoint: a memorable square with a landmark fountain, a strong sense of place, and an easy connection to the canals and the Petite Venise stroll.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time and only want one quick photo stop, you might skip lingering here and head straight to the most canal-heavy viewpoints in Petite Venise. Likewise, if you’re not interested in monuments or urban atmosphere, the square may feel like a brief pass-through rather than a destination.

For Different Travelers

Place des Six Montagnes Noires works best as a flexible stop you can scale up or down depending on your pace. Think of it as a scenic connector: quick to visit, easy to understand, and perfectly placed for building a simple walking loop through Colmar's most famous streets and waterways.

Families with Kids

This is a low-stress stop for families because it’s open-air and easy to “do” quickly. Kids can reset here before you continue toward the canals, where there’s more visual variety.

Keep expectations simple: it’s a square, not a playground. Pair it with a short Petite Venise walk and a treat stop nearby to keep the momentum fun.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

The square is a great prelude to a romantic canal walk, especially if you time it for softer light later in the day. The fountain and surrounding façades give you a classic Colmar backdrop without needing a long detour.

Use it as a meeting point before dinner, then wander toward the water for the most atmospheric streets. It’s a small moment that fits naturally into a romantic itinerary.

Budget Travelers

This is an easy win: it's scenic, central, and free, and it helps you structure a self-guided walking tour without paying for an attraction. You can get strong photos and a sense of Colmar's layout in minutes.

If you’re watching spending, build your day around walking loops from this square—Old Town streets one direction, canals the other—then choose one paid museum elsewhere if you want an indoor highlight.

FAQs for Visiting Place des Six Montagnes Noires

Getting There

Yes—this square sits in the central district and is naturally reached on foot from the main Old Town streets. It also works well as a waypoint between Grand-Rue and the Petite Venise area.
Yes, most visitors can walk from Colmar station to the historic center and continue to the square. If you prefer, local transport can shorten the walk, but it’s not required.
Very easy—many visitors treat the square as an entry point to the Petite Venise stroll. Plan a simple loop so you don’t backtrack the same streets.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public square and you can pass through freely. There are no gates or controlled entry points.
The square itself is about the monument and atmosphere rather than ticketed entry. Any costs you encounter are typically for nearby dining or guided tours.
Not for the square. If you’re pairing it with a guided walking tour, booking ahead can help during peak seasons.

Visiting Experience

The Roesselmann Fountain is the centerpiece and the easiest “anchor” for photos and orientation. Use it to decide which streets you want to explore next.
It can be busy at midday and in peak travel months because it’s near popular walking routes. Visiting early or later in the day usually feels calmer.
Both: you can see it in minutes, but it’s also a pleasant pause on a longer walking route. Most travelers spend longer when they combine it with Petite Venise.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes—use it as a checkpoint between Old Town streets and the canals. It’s especially helpful for structuring a simple “highlights loop.”
A guided tour can add context about the monument and surrounding streets, but it’s not essential. The square is easy to appreciate on your own.
Start here, walk toward Petite Venise for canal views, then return via Grand-Rue for architecture and shops. This keeps the route compact and efficient.

Photography

The fountain is the obvious focal point, especially with surrounding façades as a frame. Step back to include the cobblestones and street lines for depth.
Morning and late afternoon are usually most flattering and less harsh than midday. These times also tend to be less crowded.
Use the fountain as a foreground element, then angle toward the streets leading to the canals. This creates a “story” in the image rather than a flat snapshot.

Accessibility & Facilities

Expect cobblestones and uneven paving that can be challenging. With patience and route choice, many visitors can still enjoy the area, but it may be slow-going.
Not reliably on the square itself. Plan to use nearby cafés or public facilities in the wider center.
Seating can be limited, so don’t count on finding a bench right when you want one. Nearby cafés are the most dependable option for a rest.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes—this part of Colmar is surrounded by restaurants and cafés, making it an easy stop before or after a meal. You’ll find options ranging from quick bites to longer sit-down meals.
It works for either, but lunch can be busier in peak season. If you want a calmer experience, consider an early lunch or a later dinner.
Yes, this is a great area for building a walking day with short food breaks. Keep your route flexible so you can pivot if a place looks crowded.

Safety & Timing

Central Colmar is generally comfortable for evening strolling, especially in well-trafficked areas. As in any tourist center, keep an eye on belongings.
Budget at least an hour for a relaxed loop that includes canal viewpoints and a few photo stops. Add more time if you plan a sit-down break.
The square is still passable, but cobblestones can be slippery. Consider shifting your focus to nearby indoor stops and returning when conditions improve.

Nearby Attractions to the Place des Six Montagnes Noires

  • Petite Venise: Colmar’s most famous canal-side stretch, ideal for reflections, bridges, and slow strolling.
  • Koïfhus (Ancienne Douane): A historic landmark building that anchors the Old Town's civic and trading history.
  • Maison Pfister: An iconic Renaissance-era house with richly detailed façades and a prime photo angle.
  • Unterlinden Museum: Colmar’s standout museum, known for major art collections and a strong sense of place.
  • Marché Couvert de Colmar: A covered market that's perfect for local snacks, produce browsing, and a quick break.

The Place des Six Montagnes Noires appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Colmar!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Pl. des 6 Montagnes Noires, 68000 Colmar, France
Colmar: 1 km

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