In Alsace, wine becomes wanderlust
France’s oldest Wine Route winds its way lasciviously through the foothills of the Vosges Mountains, among picturesque landscapes, medieval castles and unspoilt flower-filled villages.
Its incomparable soils are at the origin of the very special character of Alsace’s grape varieties and Grands Crus, a quarter of which are certified organic. Meet up with winegrowers dedicated to their craft and acquaint yourself with their unparalleled knowhow during an adventure that will awaken every one of your senses.
The Alsace Wine Route is a unique oenotourism itinerary to be savoured step by step, taking your time about it. Pedal your way along the Alsace Vineyard Cycle Route’s idyllic pathways: that’s how you’ll uncover our grapes’ best-kept secrets!
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Welcome to Alsace’s picturesque villages
Half-timbered houses, flower-decked windows, perfectly preserved medieval architecture and outstanding scenery: Alsace’s villages are true picture-postcard material!
A journey along the Alsace Wine Route combines Grands Crus and delightful little winemaking towns labelled “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, “French People’s Favourite Village” or “Most Beautiful Detours in France”. And when the vineyards are celebrating, the ambience is really mind-blowing! A getaway with more than its fair share of enchantment and authenticity that will leave you with a host of unforgettable memories.
A memorable road trip through emblematic villages
At the Alsace Wine Route’s South Gate, start your visit in the delightful little village of Thann, famous for its Grand Cru Rangen. Then make your way north into the domain of the Grand Cru Eichberg: Eguisheim, one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, is an essential stopover, immersing its visitors in a true medieval atmosphere!
Next in line, head for Kaysersberg and admire its richly decorated half-timbered houses, a famous little town whose fortified bridge paves the way to some truly outstanding cellars. And just a few kilometres further on, Riquewihr, “Pearl of the Alsatian Vineyards”, produces the Schoenenbourg wines that have delighted Northern Europe since the 16thcentury. Continue northwards and linger awhile in the festive little streets of Ribeauvillé, home to three Grands Crus and the joyful Fiddlers’ Festival.
In Bas-Rhin, the Alsace Wine Route takes you to the lovely little town of Obernai, one of Alsace’s most popular tourist destinations and one of the “Most Beautiful Detours in France”. Up on the heights of Mont Sainte-Odile, you feel like you’re growing wings!
Gourmets, delight your palate!
It’s no secret that, in Alsace, the pleasures of the table have become a way of life in their own right. Succulent dishes go perfectly with local wines to create a cuisine combining inventiveness and tradition.
From the warmly welcoming atmosphere of its winstubs to prestigious restaurants run by starred chefs, the Alsace Wine Route is teeming with great places to enjoy the terroir’s unparalleled products, always accompanied by a glass of local wine of course!
A destination with the “Vineyards & Discoveries” label
Since 2009, the national “Vineyards & Discoveries” label has been awarded to winegrowing destinations providing a full range of top-quality tourist services, ensuring visitors enjoy an unforgettable, easily organised stay.
In 2019, there were 365 well-known cellars, restaurants, hotels and other service providers along the Alsace Wine Route with the label, ensuring you enjoy the very best in oenotourism. Authenticity and conviviality are the order of the day!