Alsace Wine Route

The is France's oldest wine road — established in 1953, stretching 170 km along the eastern foothills of the Vosges mountains from Marlenheim (near Strasbourg) to Thann (near Mulhouse). It passes through over 70 wine-producing villages, many of them achingly beautiful clusters of half-timbered houses, medieval fortifications, and flower-decked fountains. The wine is excellent, the scenery is fairy-tale, and the pace is blissfully slow.

Practical Information

Tasting: Most caves offer free tastings. It's polite (though not obligatory) to buy a bottle or two.
Cycling: The route is excellent for cycling — largely flat, with dedicated cycle lanes for many sections
Christmas markets: November–December; Strasbourg, Colmar, Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, and Ribeauvillé have the best
Base yourself: Colmar is ideal — central, well-connected, with the widest accommodation range
Don't drive impaired: Tasting adds up. Designate a driver or use a tour service.