ALSACE
Alsace The province of Alsace stands like a flower child referee between Germany and France. Bounded by the Rhine River on the east and the Vosges Mountains on the west, this is a green region of Hansel-Gretel villages, with brightly painted half-timbered houses, the oldest wine route in France, vibrant cities, and countless gastronomic restaurants. Changing Hands several times over the centuries between France and Germany has only strengthened the independent character of this fiercely traditional region, where a unique dialect is still the most popular spoken language.
“I don’t think I have ever traveled through any other part of France where visitors are given such a genuinely warm welcome” (John Brunton, the Guardian)
Here are some ideas about this truly exceptional part of France
Flower-filled Historical Villages
Alsace is renowned for its picturesque villages with well-preserved half-timbered houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and vibrant flower displays. Cities boasting Gothic cathedrals and enchanting holiday markets. The region has been influenced by both French and German cultures throughout its history, resulting in a unique blend of Gothic Renaissance and medieval architecture. Villages like Colmar, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim exude a fairytale-like charm that captivates visitors. All the villages in Alsace are decorated year round with flowers (except the winters with Christmas decorations), which have helped the region to win the best village contest in France several times! With spring and fall seasons, blooming flowers and vibrant colors create a postcard-perfect atmosphere.
The Alsace Wine Route
The region is famous for its wine, particularly white wines such as Pinot Gris and Riesling. The Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins) takes you through hundreds of miles of vineyards interspersed by medieval villages and centuries-old castles perched high on clifftops. Alsace Borders Germany and Switzerland and is situated primarily on plains formed along the west bank of the Rhine River. June through August is an excellent choice for wine-tasting and local festivities. During the summer months, annual harvest festivals turn the Alsace wine route into a circuit of cultural discovery, with wineries opening their doors for special tastings.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
Alsace has a relatively dry climate and semi-temperate mercury levels throughout much of the year, which makes it a pleasant destination year-round. The Vosges mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the region, which offers many activities for nature lovers, with many preserve areas and natural parks and outdoor enthusiasts, such as skiing or hiking. Alsace is the number one region for cycling, so you can also discover the region by biking along the Alsace wine road or simply driving along scenic routes offering breathtaking views.
Gastronomy
Alsace is well known for its delicious cuisine, having 26 Michelin-star restaurants and a lot of famous worldwide establishments! You will be around local farms and orchards in Strasbourg and areas that bring fresh, local, and often organic, excellent foods to your table. Don‘t miss trying Alsatian specialties such as tarte flambee or Flammekueche, Sauerkraut, white asparagus, and various local cheeses. Alsace is well known for its high-quality patisseries, not to be missed!
Art & Crafts
Alsace and its region, including Les Vosges, are exceptionally well known for their art and crafts, which are emblematic of their heritage. Alsace pottery is adorned with traditional Alsatian motifs such as birds, flowers, and geometric patterns, as well as Christmas decorations in glass and wood ornaments. Easily reach in an hour from Strasbourg, there are famous glass factories such as Lalique, Baccarat, or St. Louis, which will offer the opportunity to learn about the making of those rare and iconic glassware pieces. Strolling In RibeauVille, one of the most colorful Alsatian villages, you will have the opportunity to discover beautiful table linen, or while enjoying the famous Gerardmer, you could visit the well-known linen brand Garnier Thibault.