Munster is a commune situated in the Haut-Rhin department within the Grand Est region of north-eastern France. It lies in the valley of the river Fecht, nestled among the Vosges mountains. The town occupies a strategic position approximately 15 kilometres west of Colmar, accessible via the D417 road which leads toward the Col de la Schlucht and Épinal.

The settlement derives its name from a seventh-century abbey or monastery that once stood on the site. This religious foundation established the place's identity and historical significance in the region. The area has deep roots, having been part of the German Empire as Elsaß-Lothringen during the late nineteenth century before becoming part of France.

The town is defined by its mountainous setting and historical architecture associated with its monastic past. It serves as a notable location for cultural figures, being the birthplace of Dom George Franck, an organist and composer who lived from circa 1690 to 1760. The local inhabitants are known in French as munstériens.

Munster is internationally famous for its distinctive cheese, which shares the town's name and represents a key aspect of its cultural heritage. The area also holds significance for medical history, as Albert Schweitzer grew up in the nearby village of Gunsbach during the late nineteenth century. The village now hosts the international Albert Schweitzer association.

The population of Munster was recorded at 4,738 residents as of 2023. The town functions as a commune with a tourism office website available for visitors seeking information about the region. Its location in the Vosges provides access to natural landscapes and historical sites connected to its abbey origins and notable former residents.