Ribeauvillé

France’s oldest wine route winds through picturesque villages, past endless vineyards, and offers tastings of famous Alsatian wines.

Riquewihr, a picturesque village on the Alsatian Wine Route, captivates with its exceptionally well-preserved medieval architecture. The main street, Rue du Général de Gaulle, leads you past colorful half-timbered houses and historic buildings that reflect the rich heritage of the place. Particularly striking is the Dolder Tower, a former 13th-century defensive gate that now houses a museum and offers insights into the local history. Here you will find numerous wine taverns and shops offering local products and the famous Alsatian wine. To experience the authentic atmosphere away from the main thoroughfare, we recommend exploring the smaller alleys and courtyards. A visit in spring or autumn, outside the high season, allows for a calmer experience of the historic setting and wine tastings.

The Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, the High Königsburg, stands at about 750 meters on a mountain spur of the Vosges overlooking the Rhine plain. The castle was first mentioned in 1147, rebuilt in the 15th century, and destroyed in 1633 during the Thirty Years' War. Between 1900 and 1908, Kaiser Wilhelm II had it rebuilt by architect Bodo Ebhardt. You can visit furnished rooms such as the Emperor's Hall, the Armory, and the living quarters, plus the keep, courtyards, and battlements with views over the plain to the Black Forest. It is quieter in the morning or late afternoon.

Colmar, located in Alsace, captivates with its picturesque old town and the unique blend of French and German culture. Here you'll find well-preserved half-timbered houses, winding alleys and canals, which have earned Colmar the nickname "Little Venice" (La Petite Venise). A central highlight is the Musée Unterlinden, home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece and making art history accessible. Stroll through the Fischermarkt quarter and along the Lauch River to experience the idyllic scenery, or visit the historic Koïfhus. The city is also an excellent starting point for the Alsatian Wine Route. You can best explore Colmar on foot or by boat; the spring and autumn months are ideal for a visit to avoid crowds.

Eguisheim, on the Alsace Wine Route just southwest of Colmar, is one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France". Its cobbled streets spiral around the central castle, lined with colorful, flower-adorned half-timbered houses. The Grand Cru sites Eichberg and Pfersigberg surround it.