Alsace, a picturesque region in northeastern France, is a land of rolling vineyards, charming half-timbered houses, and fairy-tale villages. Our journey through this enchanting area in our motorhome was nothing short of magical. We explored a series of delightful towns and villages, each with its own unique character and history. Here’s a detailed account of our adventure and the places that left a lasting impression on us.
Neuhofen: A Hidden Gem by the Rhine
Our first stop was Neuhofen, a tranquil village nestled along the Rhine River. This peaceful spot is known for its scenic riverside walks and traditional Alsatian architecture. The village is a perfect starting point for exploring the region, offering easy access to both Germany and the rest of Alsace. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the serene atmosphere and watching the barges glide by.
Saint-Hippolyte: A Village Steeped in History
Next, we headed to Saint-Hippolyte, a charming village famous for its medieval abbey and the birthplace of the renowned French actor Yves Montand. The abbey, founded in the 9th century, is a testament to the village’s rich history. We wandered through the narrow streets, admiring the well-preserved half-timbered houses and stopping at a local bakery to sample some delicious Alsatian pastries.
Ribeauvillé: The Pearl of the Vineyards
Ribeauvillé is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Alsace, and it’s easy to see why. This medieval town is surrounded by vineyards and is famous for its wine production, particularly the Riesling and Gewürztraminer varieties. We spent our time exploring the cobbled streets, visiting the impressive ruins of the three castles that overlook the town, and tasting some of the local wines at a family-run winery.
Hunawihr: A Postcard-Perfect Village
Hunawihr is a tiny, postcard-perfect village that seems to have been frozen in time. It’s renowned for its stunning flower-filled streets, traditional Alsatian houses, and the beautiful St. Jacques Church. The village is also home to the famous Léonie Sonning music festival, which attracts classical music lovers from around the world. We enjoyed a peaceful afternoon walking around the village and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards.
Colmar: The Heart of Alsace
No trip to Alsace would be complete without a visit to Colmar, the region’s capital. This vibrant city is famous for its well-preserved old town, known as “Little Venice,” where colorful half-timbered houses line the canals. We spent hours exploring the charming streets, visiting the Unterlinden Museum to see the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, and indulging in some of the best Alsatian cuisine at a local restaurant.
Riquewihr: A Medieval Masterpiece
Riquewihr is another jewel in Alsace’s crown. This medieval village is renowned for its beautifully preserved architecture, including the famous Dolder Tower and the Thieves’ Tower. The village is also a major wine-producing center, and we couldn’t resist stopping at a few wine cellars to sample some of the local vintages. The Christmas market in Riquewihr is said to be one of the most enchanting in France, and we can only imagine how magical it must be during the holiday season.
Kaysersberg-Vignoble: A Village of Legends
Kaysersberg-Vignoble is a charming village nestled in the heart of the Alsatian wine region. It’s famous for its medieval castle ruins, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the village below. We spent our time exploring the cobbled streets, visiting the local shops, and learning about the village’s rich history. Kaysersberg is also the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, the famous philosopher and Nobel Peace Prize winner, and we visited his childhood home, which is now a museum.
Turckheim: A Town of Tradition
Turckheim is a delightful town known for its traditional Alsatian architecture and its famous Night Watchman Tour. This unique tour takes visitors on a journey through the town’s history, led by a guide dressed as a medieval night watchman. We enjoyed the tour immensely and also spent time exploring the town’s charming streets and visiting the local wineries.
Eguisheim: A Circular Wonder
Eguisheim is a unique village laid out in concentric circles around its central square. It’s famous for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and its vibrant flower displays. The village is also a major wine-producing center, and we spent a pleasant afternoon tasting some of the local wines and exploring the charming streets. Eguisheim is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, and it’s easy to see why.
Gunsbach: A Peaceful Retreat
Our final stop was Gunsbach, a peaceful village nestled in the heart of the Alsatian countryside. This village is famous for being the home of Albert Schweitzer, who spent much of his life here.
Our motorhome adventure through Alsace was an unforgettable experience. Each village we visited had its own unique charm and history, and we were constantly amazed by the beauty and warmth of the region. From the stunning vineyards and medieval castles to the delicious food and wine, Alsace truly captured our hearts. We can’t wait to return and explore even more of this magical region.
