Discover the Charm of Alsace's Villages and Medieval Towns
Alsace, with its Vosges Mountains and Rhine plain, is home to a UNESCO-listed park and a driving route that showcases the region's unspoiled landscapes and historic cities like Molsheim, Obernai, Colmar, and Guebwiller. Travelers can enjoy quaint hamlets, country villages, and medieval towns adorned with colorful flowers and half-timbered houses.
Explore the top destinations in Alsace for a journey back in time.
1. Colmar
Colmar, a cultural hub since the 13th century, enchants with its historic neighborhoods, pedestrian streets, and canals. Known as a "Ville Fleurie" for its floral beauty, Colmar's Krutenau Quarter, or "Little Venice," is a must-see. Key attractions include the Maison des Têtes, Maison Pfister, Musée Unterlinden, and the Koïfhus.
2. Riquewihr
Riquewihr, nestled between the Vosges and the plain, is a "Plus Beaux Villages de France" with historic charm and vibrant streets like rue du Général-de-Gaulle, leading to the Dolder gate tower. The village offers cafes, bakeries, boutiques, and restaurants.
Activities and Tours in Alsace
3. Obernai
Obernai, a former Free Imperial City, retains its medieval atmosphere with historic structures and the picturesque Place du Marché. The town is known for its Christmas market and festive celebrations.
4. Kaysersberg
Kaysersberg, with its castle ruins and medieval architecture, is a prime destination for experiencing Alsace's Christmas magic, complete with a traditional market and holiday festivities.
5. Ribeauvillé
Ribeauvillé, a four-star "Village Fleuri," is known for its Pfifferdaj festival, Medieval Christmas Market, and other cultural events like the Kougelhopf Festival and Festival de Musique Ancienne.
6. Eguisheim
Eguisheim, surrounded by vineyards, is a "Plus Beaux Villages" and a former "village préféré des Français." Its concentric cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses create a fairy-tale setting, especially during Christmas.
7. Sélestat
Sélestat, a "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire," boasts a historic library and notable churches. The Maison du Pain d'Alsace offers a glimpse into the region's baking traditions.
8. Vallée de Munster
The Valley of Munster is famous for its cheese and "Route du Fromage." Gastronomy enthusiasts can enjoy traditional markets and regional cuisine at local restaurants.
9. Dambach-la-Ville
Dambach-la-Ville, a medieval walled town, offers scenic beauty and hiking trails. The village celebrates the Fête de la Myrtille and a traditional Christmas market.
10. Rosheim
Rosheim, near Obernai, features medieval walls and the Romanesque Eglise Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. The town's Jewish heritage adds to its historical significance.
11. Molsheim
Molsheim's cobblestone streets lead to historic sites like the Place du Marché and La Metzig, a former guild house now serving Alsatian cuisine.
12. Turckheim
Turckheim, in the Münster Valley, is known for its medieval gates, historic buildings, and festive events, including a unique Christmas market and Advent Calendar ritual.
13. Andlau
Andlau, a village with a bear motif, is home to the Eglise Abbatiale Saints-Pierre-et-Paul, featuring bear sculptures and a storied past.
14. Mittelbergheim
Mittelbergheim, another "Plus Beaux Villages de France," is celebrated for its gastronomy and traditional restaurants. The village hosts the Bredelmarik, a market for Alsatian Christmas treats.
15. Guebwiller
Guebwiller, at the base of the Vosges Mountains, is a "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" with architectural gems and a rich cultural scene, including music concerts.
16. Bergheim
Bergheim, a walled medieval village, charms with its ramparts, winding lanes, and the Jardin d'Aneth, a medieval garden.
17. Hunawihr
Hunawihr, listed among "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France," is known for its Butterfly Garden, Stork Reintroduction Center, and fortified church.
Other Places of Interest
Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg
The Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, a symbol of Alsatian heritage, offers a glimpse into medieval life with its furnished quarters and panoramic views.
Official site: http://www.haut-koenigsbourg.fr/en/
Mont Sainte-Odile
Mont Sainte-Odile, a revered pilgrimage site, offers tranquility and stunning vistas, complete with a hotel, restaurant, and the ancient Mur Païen.
Neuf-Brisach
Neuf-Brisach, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fortified citadel built by Vauban for King Louis XIV, showcasing unique European military architecture.
