The Alsace Wine Route is a 170 km journey from north to south through 2 departments (Bas and Haut-Rhin). The Wine Route is also 120 towns and villages with magnificent coloured half-timbered houses, Romanesque and Gothic churches. The Wine Route is still a long walk between valley and mountains through vineyards often watched over by thousand-year-old castles. The Wine Route is finally about 120 campsites just waiting for you. To make the most of this little corner of paradise, we give you some advice. Leave your car at the campsite and take advantage of the network of cycle paths, far from the traffic, which sometimes cross the vineyards and other dreamy corners. To make your mouth water, even before the first tasting, here are a few steps that we think are mandatory.
Colmar: "capital of Alsace wines".
This small town, as pretty as a candy store, is located in the centre of Alsace. Because of its position in the centre of the Alsatian vineyard, it has earned its nickname of "Capital of Alsace Wine" with a few beautiful addresses. Colmar is also a city of culture with two exceptional museums, the Unterlinten Museum which houses the fabulous Issenheim Altarpiece and the Bartholdi Museum, the "father of the Statue of Liberty".
Obernai: a summary of Alsace
Obernai is nestled in the Vosges foothills at the mouth of the Ehn valley. It is the most visited town in Alsace after Strasbourg because it is so rich. Put your car on a car park and discover the small streets and treat yourself to a few tastings... in moderation of course. Like Obernai, spend a few days in a lovely *** campsite "le Vallon de Ehn".
Riquewirh: the "pearl of the vineyard".
This small medieval town, situated between the crests of the Vosges Mountains and the Alsace plain, Riquewihr is planted in the heart of the vineyard. It will allow you to combine the time you spend there with your love of old stones and the "blood of the vine".
Ribauvillé: almost compulsory
If you had to limit your stages on the Wine Route, there are some that are almost obligatory, such as the commune of Ribauvillé, which alone brings together what Alsace can offer you in terms of beauty and hospitality. These are of course the colourful half-timbered houses and the cool little streets where many temptations await you. There are also three fortified castles whose ruins still dominate this charming town. In addition, many buildings are worth a visit: the town hall, the Butchers' Tower, the former wheat market, the minstrels' house, etc. On the charming municipal campsite, it is possible that the emblematic bird of Alsace will come and keep you company.
Kaysersberg: it's midday doctor Schweitzer!
Kaysersberg is not only one of the most beautiful villages in France, it is also the birthplace of an exceptional personage, Doctor Albert Schweitzer, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952. In addition to the beauty of its streets and houses, some beautiful places await you. Let's have a dream and imagine for a moment. It's near noon, you are strolling along a pedestrian street lined with restaurants like the one of Roger Hassenforder, former cycling champion. Sit down on one of the terraces with armchairs... stretching out their armrests. Order a flammeküche, this fine tart with onions, cream and bacon, and a jar of Gewurztraminer "Late Harvest" and take your time. Besides the fact that you will feel very well, you will then understand why you have come to spend your holiday on the Wine Route.