Geographically small, yet culturally rich, France's Alsace region is perfect for the time-poor. Best explored as a weekend road trip, visitors will be treated to stunning scenery, unique cuisine and an abundance of wine.
Wondering if Alsace is worth visiting? Here are six reasons Alsace should be your next adventure.
Feast on Alsace’s glorious food
Fine dining enthusiasts would be hard-pressed to find a more enjoyable destination to visit than Alsace. The region houses several Michelin-starred restaurants, promising a culinary adventure for any foodie. And – for the cost-conscious – there are plenty of quirky bistros that specialise in pairing foods with local wine.
For a real Alsatian gourmet experience, head to Strasbourg and try some local specialities such as the traditional choucroute, the coq au riesling and the exquisite tarte flambée.
Taste France’s finest white wine
Alsace is home to France’s white wine route — La Route des Vins d’Alsace. This 110-mile trail loosely follows the Rhine River and meanders through more than 100 wine-producing villages.
The route offers an abundance of wine excursions and private vineyard tours. Crémant d’Alsace, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer are particularly special local wines – all should be sampled en route.
The Peak Route trail: explore the outdoors in Alsace
Visit Alsace’s stunning mountainous scenery by taking its Peak Route trail. Winding through the Vosges mountain range, tourists will enjoy panoramic views of the Black Forest, the Alsatian plains and – on a clear day – the Alps.
Along this 70-kilometre trail are landscapes of stark contrast – including calm lakes, sprawling forests and mountain pastures.
A paradise for panoramas and châteaux
Among Alsace’s rugged terrain sit several fortresses. The Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is perched upon one of the Vosges’ peaks and offers panoramic views of the Alsatian plain. This castle has seen nine centuries of history and will have visitors feeling like Medieval royalty.
Also, do not miss the château atop Mont Sainte-Odile. It’s a significant pilgrimage site at an altitude of more than 750 m – and its many surrounding pathways afford far-reaching views over Alsace.
Unveil charmingly beautiful villages
Visitors should also explore Alsace’s flurry of tiny villages. Each exhibits its personality, and many capture the true essence of the region.
One example is historic Riquewihr, frequently crowned one of France’s most beautiful villages. It’s also celebrated for the variety of flowers it produces, which transform it into a kaleidoscope of colours every spring. Riquewihr is instantly recognisable by its church steeple, which cuts an imposing figure over the tiny village. that makes this building a key part of the Strasbourg experience!
If you want to discover more iconic villages in France, check out our dedicated guide.
Visit Colmar, a city of culture
The city of Colmar is rich in culture – evident in its many central monuments, impressive Medieval buildings and beautiful red-slated roofs. It’s been a cultural hub since the 13th century; its winding cobbled streets and network of canals retain the character of a past era.
Colmar’s Krutenau Quarter (Little Venice) is glorious in summer. Amblers enjoy tree-lined streets, and al-fresco café culture is rife. Boats glide along narrow canals, providing passengers with uninterrupted views of balconies with vibrant flowers. It is among France’s most iconic and romantic destinations, together with nearby Strasbourg.
Are you eager to explore further? Read our travel guide and unveil six off-the-beaten-path destinations in France.