Alsace Route des Vins
France
The Route des Vins d'Alsace winds between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine plain through a string of medieval villages, half-timbered houses hung with geraniums, storks on every chimney, and Riesling in every cellar.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Strasbourg
The Alsatian capital where the wine route begins. Gothic cathedral, La Petite France canals, and the European Parliament within one medieval island city.
- Obernai
The first great wine village, enclosed by intact medieval walls. The six-bucket well on the market square dates from 1579 and still defines the town.
- Sélestat
A Renaissance town with the oldest lending library in France. Its 1521 Christmas market is widely credited with launching the global tradition.
- Ribeauvillé
Three ruined castles crown the hill above this handsome town. The Grand Cru Kirchberg de Ribeauvillé Riesling vines fill every slope below them.
- Riquewihr
A perfectly preserved 16th-century wine town unchanged since Habsburg rule. Cobbled lanes, half-timbered facades, and no through traffic.
- Colmar
The wine capital of Alsace. Petite Venise canals, the Isenheim Altarpiece at Unterlinden museum, and the region's best tarte flambée all converge here.
- Eguisheim
Elected France's favourite village. Concentric rings of colour-washed half-timbered houses form a perfectly intact medieval world built around a 13th-century castle.
Where to Eat
- La Maison des TêtesFrench
A historic restaurant in Colmar offering traditional Alsatian dishes in an elegant setting.
- Wistub du SommelierAlsatian
A cozy eatery in Bergheim known for its authentic Alsatian cuisine and extensive wine list.
- Auberge de l'IllGourmet French
A three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Illhaeusern offering exquisite French cuisine by the Ill River.
Things to Do
- Château du Haut-KœnigsbourgHistoric Site
A restored medieval castle offering panoramic views of the Alsace plain and the Vosges mountains.
- Unterlinden MuseumMuseum
A renowned museum in Colmar housing the famous Isenheim Altarpiece and diverse art collections.
- Mont Sainte-OdileNature
A sacred mountain offering hiking trails and a monastery with stunning views over the Alsace region.