From the heart of Strasbourg to the shade of the hillsides

From the European capital to the gateway to the vineyards, this stage takes you on a bucolic journey along a canal steeped in history.

From the lively quays of Strasbourg, EuroVelo 5 heads west along the green banks of the Ill and then the Bruche canal. This old canal, built under Vauban, links the city to the Alsatian plain, in a rural setting where trees peacefully line the old towpaths. This gentle, safe route is one of Strasbourg's favourite Sunday walks.

Along the way, small bridges, locks and a few houses nestling on the banks of the canal punctuate the progress, until you enter the wine-growing landscapes of the Vosges foothills. The Route des Vins d'Alsace looms on the horizon, revealing first the hillsides of the Couronne d'Or vineyards, the closest to Strasbourg. Here, nature is more generous, the landscape opens up to the first hills, and the tranquillity of the canal blends with the promise of wonderful discoveries, from local flavours to cultural nuggets.

Fully developed and signposted, this stage is ideal for a day's outing or as a warm-up before tackling the charms of the vineyards. Whether you're cycling as a family, a duo or solo, every pedal stroke is an invitation to stroll.