Cycling the Alsace Wine Roads: A Guide to Launch

Strasbourg along the Rhine

Alsace Wine Route

The magic of Alsace reveals itself best on two wheels. Alsace boasts a well-maintained network of dedicated paths, particularly the scenic Véloroute du Vignoble d'Alsace, which guides cyclists through vine-covered hillsides at the foot of the dramatic Vosges Mountains. The region's relatively flat terrain along the Rhine plain makes for accessible riding, while the close proximity of its medieval villages allows for a leisurely pace with frequent stops. This slower mode of transport creates opportunities for genuine cultural immersion – like that delightful cloudburst that sent us scurrying into a brasserie, where what could have been a damp inconvenience transformed into one of our favorite evenings, clinking glasses with beer-loving locals who shared tales as frothy as their brews. The humble call of nature becomes an adventure in itself, and those "wrong" turns that landed us smack dab in the middle of a vineyard harvest – exchanging smiles and salutes with sun-kissed workers – proved there are no real mistakes when wandering these ancient routes. Cycling grants easier access to historic town centers, the freedom to stop on a whim to sample cuisine or local wines directly from small producers whose families have tended these vines for generations, to claim picnic spots with views that no roadside turnout could match, and the sweet satisfaction of having earned each buttery bite and velvety sip through the honest work of your own two legs.

Forget tour buses and rushed itineraries—this is a region that demands to be experienced slowly, with plenty of stops for wine, conversation, and unexpected discoveries (it is also romantic!).

Practical Wisdom for the Discerning Cyclist

The Alsace Wine Route stretches approximately 170 kilometers from Strasbourg in the north to Colmar in the south, winding through a picturesque landscape of rolling vineyards, and medieval villages. This self-guided cycling journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of France's most distinctive wine regions at a leisurely pace.  Professional cycling tour operators specialized in the Alsace region typically offer comprehensive self-guided packages that include:

·       Detailed digital route maps accessible via smartphone

·       GPS-enabled navigation systems

·       Daily luggage transfer between predetermined destinations

·       Curated route selections that balance scenic beauty with minimal traffic exposure

The cycling route traverses the eastern slopes of the Vosges Mountains, offering moderate terrain that is largely manageable for intermediate cyclists. The path primarily consists of dedicated bicycle paths, low-traffic rural roads, vineyard-adjacent routes (we even cycled through several active harvesting teams), and minimal elevation changes.

• Best time to cycle: Late spring through early autumn (September is harvest)

• Pack layers that speak to both performance and style

• Bring a local wine map (both online and paper – your most valuable navigation tool

• Take a few ziplocks and pack a bite or two from breakfast to serve as your mid-morning snack

• Check luggage regulations VERY carefully- often your tour company has a packed van and will take your backpack but not a roll on without extra fee. Confirm before you go.

• Take a handlebar mounting attachments for digital devices/map routes

Cuisine to explore on your trip/ signature Alsatian dishes:

Local Alsatian Fare

Bike route Alsace

Sylvaner and coffee Alsace

Grapes on the Wine Route

• Choucroute Garnie - The iconic Alsatian dish featuring fermented cabbage (sauerkraut) cooked in white wine and juniper berries, topped with various smoked and cured meats including sausages, ham, and pork cuts.

• Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche) - A thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, thinly sliced onions, and lardons (bacon bits), baked quickly in a wood-fired oven until the edges are charred.

• Baeckeoffe - A hearty casserole of marinated meat (usually three types: beef, pork, and lamb), potatoes, onions, and vegetables slow-cooked in Alsatian white wine, sealed with a bread dough lid.

• Coq au Riesling - The Alsatian version of coq au vin, using regional Riesling wine instead of red wine, with mushrooms, cream, and sometimes bacon.

• Kugelhopf - A distinctive ring-shaped yeasted brioche cake studded with raisins and almonds, often served at breakfast or with afternoon coffee.

• Munster Cheese - A pungent soft cheese with a distinctive orange rind, traditionally served with cumin seeds and often enjoyed with a glass of Gewürztraminer.

• Presskopf - A terrine made from various parts of pig's head, set in gelatin, thinly sliced and served cold.

Not to miss wines when you take a break from cycling:

Alsatian wines represent a distinctive and prestigious viticultural tradition in northeastern France, characterized by their exceptional quality and unique terroir. The region primarily produces white wines.  Riesling is a signature grape variety that (contrary to many international perceptions) is typically produced in a dry style; they are crisp, mineral-driven, and often feature remarkable complexity, reflecting the area's unique geological composition of granite, limestone, and volcanic soils. Other prominent grape varieties include Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc, each expressing the nuanced characteristics of the Alsace wine route's diverse microclimates. The wines are typically bottled in distinctive tall, slender green bottles known as "flûtes d'Alsace" and are renowned for their food-pairing versatility, particularly with the region's rich, hearty cuisine.

Lesser known Alsatian drinks to try:

• Sylvaner  Sylvaner is a white grape that produces crisp, light-bodied wines with subtle herbal notes and mineral characteristics. Traditionally considered a "lesser" grape in Alsace's hierarchy, innovative winemakers like those in Mittelbergheim have elevated Sylvaner to impressive heights. It pairs beautifully with the region's freshwater fish dishes and lighter charcuterie.

• Picon Bière This beloved Alsatian aperitif combines beer with Picon, a bitter orange liqueur.

  

  Local Drinks to Try in Alsace

  The typical recipe involves adding a shot of Picon to a glass of light beer (usually a local lager), creating a slightly bitter, caramel-colored drink with distinctive orange notes. It's a staple in local brasseries and homes across Alsace.

• Eau de Vie de Mirabelle - A potent clear fruit brandy made from yellow mirabelle plums that grow abundantly in the region.

• Crémant d'Alsace - While gaining popularity, this sparkling wine made using the traditional method is still overshadowed by Champagne despite offering excellent quality at more accessible prices.

• Pinot Noir d'Alsace - Alsace's only red wine variety is often overlooked but shouldn't be! It can be exceptional, especially from producers around Katzenthal and Ottrott.

• Klevener de Heiligenstein - An extremely rare wine made from the Savagnin Rose grape, produced only around the village of Heiligenstein with floral, spicy characteristics.

• Bière de Mars - A traditional March beer brewed in small batches that was historically made to celebrate the end of winter.

 

Strasbourg : The Journey Begins

Situated in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, Strasbourg is a city of profound historical significance, embodying the cultural fusion of French and German influences. Its strategic location along the Rhine River has made it a crucial political and cultural center for centuries, serving as a key point of exchange between two major European civilizations.

Stasbourg

What to see in Strasbourg:

The city's La Petite France quarter feels like stepping into a living postcard—half-timbered houses lean charmingly against one another, their window boxes overflowing with geraniums. Swans glide along the River Ill's crystalline waters, passing under the Ponts Couverts—a remarkable feat of medieval defensive engineering. These three bridges, dating back to the 13th century, were once a critical part of Strasbourg's intricate water-based fortification system. Originally covered with wooden roofs to protect defenders, the bridges could be quickly sealed with massive wooden gates, transforming the city into an impenetrable fortress. Flanked by two imposing towers, they stand as silent witnesses to centuries of strategic urban planning, where water itself became a weapon of defense.

Nearby, the Barrage Vauban—a massive stone dam designed by the legendary military engineer Vauban in the 1600s—completes this architectural defense masterpiece. The dam could be manipulated to flood surrounding areas, creating an additional layer of protection.

Strasbourg Cathedral

The Cathedral of Notre Dame dominates the skyline, its astronomical clock a marvel of mechanical genius. Constructed in the 16th century, this intricate timepiece is not only a clock, but more, a complex astronomical computer. Its mechanism tracks planetary movements, lunar cycles, and solar equinoxes. Every day at half past noon, a remarkable parade of 132 mechanical figures performs a sophisticated dance, a testament to medieval engineering prowess.  It is a worth a visit (even teens will be impressed).

The Strasbourg Covered Market is a historic iron and glass marketplace located in the city's UNESCO World Heritage center, offering an impressive array of fresh local Alsatian produce, regional specialties, and artisanal foods while serving as a vibrant cultural and economic hub for the community.

The Cave Historique des Hospices is a historic wine cellar located within the Strasbourg Civil Hospital complex, dating back to 1395 and renowned for its exceptional collection of wines from the Alsace region, featuring vintage bottles and traditional wine-making artifacts that illustrate the area's rich viticultural heritage.

Culinary Strasbourg:

• Buerehiesel, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant celebrating Alsatian culinary artistry, helmed by Chef Eric Westermann. Located in Strasbourg's Parc de l'Orangerie, the restaurant is housed in a historic farmhouse.

• L'Auberge de l'Ill represents the gold standard of French culinary excellence, holding three Michelin stars for over 50 consecutive years—an unprecedented achievement in the gastronomic world. Located in Illhaeusern, the restaurant has been managed by the Haeberlin family since 1882, representing five generations of culinary mastery.

• Au Crocodile- Located in the historic center of Strasbourg, Au Crocodile stands as a distinguished Michelin-starred restaurant with a unique culinary heritage. Founded in 1804, the restaurant derives its name from a taxidermied crocodile that once adorned its walls, a remnant from the exotic curiosities of the early 19th century. Under the current leadership of Chef Léon Darcet, the restaurant continues to honor its traditional roots while presenting innovative French cuisine. Au Crocodile offers an expertly curated dining experience that blends classic Alsatian techniques with contemporary culinary approach.

• Winstub Jacob-The interior reflects the classic winstub design—wood-paneled walls, rustic furniture, and an intimate atmosphere that transports diners to a bygone era of regional gastronomy. Specializing in hearty local fare such as choucroute garnie, baeckeoffe, and tarte flambée, Winstub Jacob provides a genuine taste of Alsatian comfort food paired with an extensive selection of local wines and craft beers. Unlike more formal dining establishments, this winstub offers a convivial, unpretentious environment where visitors can experience the true spirit of Alsatian culinary tradition.

• The Maison Kammerzell stands as a living testament to Renaissance artistry, its wooden facade intricately carved with figures that seem suspended in time.  Within this architectural masterpiece, overlooking the Cathedral Square, the Restaurant Kammerzell  offers diners a chance to savor traditional Alsatian cuisine.  A UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 1427, the restaurant’s menu celebrates local traditions such as rich choucroute royale and foie gras paired with regional wines.

• Le Bistrot des Beaux Arts: An intimate dining experience with approximately 30 seats, featuring a daily-changing menu that showcases seasonal local ingredients sourced from regional producers. Chef Alexandre Meyer crafts innovative dishes that reimagine classic Alsatian recipes. The wine list emphasizes local vintages, particularly focusing on small-production Alsatian wines

Accommodation in Strasbourg:

• Les Haras Hotel: An architectural masterpiece transformed from an 18th-century National Studs building. Redesigned in 2013 by renowned architects Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku, the hotel blends equestrian heritage with contemporary design. Awarded a Michelin key, it offers 60 rooms, a wellness area, and a narrative of Strasbourg's architectural evolution.

• Hotel Léonor: Boutique luxury in a historic setting with Individually designed rooms, Private courtyard, and Personalized concierge service

• Strasbourg Grand Ile: Housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century building with a striking half-timbered façade, the hotel offers elegant rooms featuring refined décor, premium bedding, and modern amenities while preserving original architectural details. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the cathedral or picturesque canals from many rooms. The property boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative Alsatian cuisine, a sophisticated cocktail bar, and a tranquil spa with indoor pool.

Perks if booked through Viewfinder Travel

•       Daily complimentary breakfast for 2, per room

•       VIP Welcome

•       $100 USD credit to be spent on property (conditions defined at check-in)

•       Early check-in & late check-out (upon availability)

•       Upgrade at time of check-in (upon availability)

Rosheim

Rosheim, Alsace

Likely, the first stop from Strasboug will be this small town, more modest than its neighbors.  Rosheim reveals Alsace's subtle beauty- a 12th-century church stands as the village's backbone, surrounded by rows of vines and stone houses with red tile roofs clustered togethe,. Narrow lanes barely wide enough for a bicycle weave between buildings, occasionally opening to small squares where locals gather.

What to see and do in Rosheim: If you stay overnight, try a medieval craft workshops showcasing traditional artisan skills or a guided historical walking tous exploring Roman and Medieval architecture.

 Culinary Rosheim:

• Au Bon Terroir epitomizes the farm-to-table concept with a daily changing menu based on local market produce. The restaurant's intimate dining room seats only ten guests, creating an exclusive culinary experience. Monthly wine and cheese pairing events showcase the region's gastronomic diversity.

• Le Carré d'Or offers a modern interpretation of Alsatian cuisine through innovative tasting menus. The open kitchen allows guests to observe food preparation, while a skilled sommelier curates wine pairings that enhance each dish's complex flavors.

Accommodation in Rosheim:

• Domaine du Moulin transforms a 17th-century mill into a unique lodging experience. Rooms overlook vineyards, and the hotel provides complimentary wine tastings, bicycle rentals, and cooking classes using local ingredients. The property offers an immersive exploration of Alsatian culinary traditions.

• La Maison des Vignes celebrates the region's wine culture with rooms dedicated to different local grape varieties. A private wine cellar, sommelier-led tastings, and gourmet breakfasts featuring local charcuterie provide guests with a comprehensive wine and dining experience.

Obernai:

The Obernai Well

Sixty kilometers south of Strasbourg, Obernai boasts one of the most beautiful town squares in France—a Renaissance-era fountain, surrounded by half-timbered buildings. Winding cobblestone streets reveal unexpected courtyards and hidden gardens, and the town's defensive walls are still partially intact, adding to its historical significance.

Culinary Obernai:

• Le Baen offers a sophisticated dining experience in Obernai's historic center. The restaurant features seasonal tasting menus that highlight local Alsatian ingredients, with carefully crafted dishes prepared in an intimate 24-seat dining room.

• La Cloche à Fromage specializes in regional cuisine with an extraordinary cheese selection featuring over 50 artisanal varieties. The restaurant combines traditional Alsatian recipes with modern culinary techniques, accompanied by an extensive selection of local wines that complement each carefully prepared dish.

Accommodation in Obernai:

• Le Parc Hotel & Spa provides luxury accommodations on the outskirts of Obernai. Rooms overlook surrounding vineyards, and the hotel offers a Michelin-recommended restaurant, spa with wine-based treatments, and private wine tastings. Each room is individually designed to reflect the region's aesthetic.

• La Ferme du Soleil is a countryside retreat that offers an authentic Alsatian experience. The hotel provides cooking classes with local chefs, wellness facilities, and bicycle rentals with custom route planning. Rooms are designed to reflect the region's agricultural heritage and provide comfort for discerning travelers.

 

Ribeauvillé:

Three medieval castles crown the surrounding mountains of Ribeauvillé, where pastel-painted houses with dark wooden frames climb steep, narrow streets that wind between stone and timber houses, and geraniums and petunias overflow from window boxes. The Vosges Mountains hover in the distance, a soft blue backdrop to this historical tableau that balances tourist appeal with authentic Alsatian character.

What to see and do in Ribeauvillé:

• Explore the three hilltop castle ruins

• In summer, check out the classical music festivals in historic venues

• Visit the traditional Alsatian textile museum

• Do a wine tasting at Domaine Trimbach  that traces nine generations or the family's viticultural legacy and winemaking expertise

Ribeauvillé

Culinary Ribeauvillé:

• L'Authentique focuses on seasonal tasting menus that highlight wild and foraged ingredients. The restaurant provides cooking classes that allow guests to understand the depth of local culinary techniques and traditions.

• Restaurant Le Médiéval - A sophisticated yet cozy establishment in the historic center offering refined Alsatian dishes with a modern twist. Known for excellent fish preparations and local game in season.

• Au Cheval Blanc (Winstub) - A traditional Alsatian winstub (wine tavern) with rustic decor serving hearty regional specialties like choucroute and baeckeoffe. Their homemade foie gras is particularly notable.

• Restaurant de la Tour - Located in the Hotel de la Tour, this restaurant offers elegant dining with a focus on local ingredients and excellent regional wines. The terrace provides lovely views.

Accommodation in Ribeauvillé:

• Château d'Andlau converts a historic noble residence into a luxury retreat. Rooms offer mountain views, and a private wine cellar showcases the property's winemaking heritage. The on-site gourmet restaurant extends the culinary experience beyond traditional accommodations.

• La Maison du Parc provides an intimate boutique experience with a vineyard-view wellness center. Partnerships with local wineries and cooking workshops with local chefs ensure an authentic immersion into Alsatian culture.

Riquewihr:

Encircled by medieval walls that have protected it for centuries, Riquewihr looks precisely as it did 500 years ago. So perfectly preserved is the town that it reportedly inspired the village in Disney's "Beauty and the Beast." Narrow lanes barely wide enough for a bicycle wind between buildings decorated with elaborate carved details—biblical scenes, family crests, and geometric patterns that speak of medieval craftsmanship.

What to see and do in Riquewihr:

• See the Thieves' Tower (Tour des Voleurs), a 13th-century prison tower with medieval torture instruments

• Visit Hugel & Fils, one of Alsace's most renowned wine producers, for a tasting in their historic cellars

• Explore the Wine Museum (Musée du Vignoble et des Vins d'Alsace) to learn about local viticulture traditions

• Sample macarons from Maison Horcher, made using a recipe dating back to 1795

Culinary Riquewihr:

• La Table du Gourmet holds a Michelin star for its commitment to hyperlocal cuisine. Chefs source ingredients within a 30-kilometer radius, creating tasting menus that showcase the region's culinary terroir. The restaurant's wine cellar features rare and exceptional local vintages that complement each carefully prepared course.

• Le Sarment presents traditional Alsatian cuisine with contemporary presentation. Located with a terrace overlooking medieval town walls, the restaurant offers a carefully curated menu of regional specialties and an extensive selection of local wines. The dining experience combines historical ambiance with modern culinary techniques.

• Bra'V Brasserie- When the day's crowds become overwhelming, Bra'V offers a welcome retreat just beyond the town's edge. This local brasserie captures the essence of Alsatian hospitality with its charming outdoor patio. Here, cyclists can savor local wines and beer, paired with hearty charcuterie platters and crisp flatbreads- a great place to rest weary cycling.

  
  

Accommodation

• Hôtel de la Couronne occupies a 16th-century building in the heart of Riquewihr. Each room is furnished with period antiques, offering views of the medieval town and surrounding vineyards. The hotel provides private wine tastings and gourmet breakfasts featuring products from local producers.

• Le Clos des Arts focuses on the artistic heritage of Alsace. Rooms are themed around local artists, with a private garden offering vineyard views. The hotel provides personalized concierge services and exclusive partnerships with local wineries, ensuring an authentic regional experience.

• Resort Barrière Ribeauvillé is a four-star retreat set amid vineyards and the Vosges mountains. The hotel features contemporary rooms with private balconies, an expansive spa with heated pools, hydro-massage areas, and a sauna, as well as a casino for entertainment. Dining options include La Brasserie for refined Alsatian cuisine and Le Belvédère for panoramic views.

Perks if booked through Viewfinder Travel:

•       Complimentary Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom (Served in restaurant)

•       Complimentary One-Category Upgrade (Subject to availability at time of arrival)

•       VIP Welcome Amenity

•       Welcome Note from Travel Advisor (If provided by advisor at least 48hrs prior to arrival)

Eguisheim:

Often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, Eguisheim is a stunning circular medieval village characterized by its concentric layout, colorful half-timbered houses, elaborate flower decorations, and a rich wine-making tradition, making it a quintessential example of Alsatian charm.  It is a popular destination for tourists.

What to see and do in Eguisheim:

• Annual Wine Harvest Festivals that celebrate the region's viticultural traditions

• Interactive Winemaking Workshops providing insight into local production methods

• Artisan Chocolate and Pastry Making Classes that showcase regional culinary skills

Culinary Eguisheim:

• La Fenière offers a sophisticated culinary experience that blends French and Italian cuisines in a rustic-chic setting. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its exceptional truffle pasta, providing cyclists and travelers with a luxurious dining option that showcases regional ingredients and innovative cooking techniques.

• Le Caveau represents the quintessential Alsatian wine tavern, housed in a Renaissance-era building.  The cozy interior features warm woodwork, stone elements, and soft lighting.  The menu showcases regional specialties crafted from fresh, quality ingredients, including dishes like Baeckeoffe and choucroute.

Accommodation in Eguisheim:

• Le Hartweg is an intimate wine-themed hotel that offers a unique immersion into the region's viticultural culture. Rooms overlook picturesque vineyards, providing guests with an unparalleled view of the Alsatian landscape. The hotel offers private wine tastings that allow visitors to explore the nuanced characteristics of local vintages, creating a comprehensive wine experience that extends beyond typical accommodations.

• Maison Barthelme is a meticulously restored historic residence that provides personalized hospitality in the heart of Eguisheim. The hotel distinguishes itself through tailored service and design that reflect the architectural heritage of the region.

 

The Grand Finale- Colmar:

Canals slice through the old town, which is lined with salmon pink, butter yellow, deep terracotta houses.  Little Venice, the town's most famous quarter, feels like a living postcard where boats drift beneath flower-laden balconies. The town pulses with artistic energy, home to world-class museums and a culinary scene that rivals larger towns. 

Colmar canal in old town

Colmar boats and timbered house

Archway looking onto an alsatian restaurant

What to see and do in Colmar:

• Visit the Covered Market (Marché Couvert) in Colmar is a historic 1865 iron-and-glass market building located in the heart of the Alsace region of northeastern France. This architectural gem serves as a vibrant culinary hub, offering locals and tourists a rich sensory experience of Alsatian gastronomy. Visitors can explore an array of fresh local produce, high-quality meats, regional cheeses, bread, pastries, and specialty food products. More than just a marketplace, it represents the cultural and culinary traditions of Alsace, embodying the region's commitment to fresh, local ingredients and serving as a gathering place that showcases the warm hospitality characteristic of the area. Situated in the historic center near other attractions like Little Venice and the Pfister House, the market is typically open Tuesday through Saturday and provides an authentic glimpse into the traditional food culture of this charming French region.

• Stroll Through the Old Town, wander the cobbled streets of Rue des Marchands and Rue des Boulangers, where medieval houses, artisan boutiques, and cozy cafés transport you back in time.

• Église Saint-Martin is a grand Gothic church, often called Colmar’s cathedral, which features stunning stained-glass windows and a majestic copper roof.

• Colmar is the birthplace of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor behind the Statue of Liberty. His former home, now the Bartholdi museum, showcases sculptures, sketches, and personal belongings. You can also visit a12-meter replica of the Statue of Liberty which stands at the northern entrance to Colmar, honoring Bartholdi’s legacy.

• Voltaire resided in Colmar from October 1753 to November 1754. He lodged with Madame Gall, the mayor's wife, in a noble house dating from the 15th century, rebuilt in 1609, located at 12 Rue Berthe-Molly. This residence, known as Maison Wildungshof, features a Renaissance-style portal dated 1566 and a distinctive octagonal turret. 

  
  

  

  Colmar

  
  

Culinary Colmar:

• L'Atelier du Peintre (One Michelin star) is situated in a historic 15th-century building in Colmar's old town.  L'Atelier du Peintre offers a chic and cozy interior with a contemporary design. This restaurant focuses on modern French cuisine with seasonal ingredients and carefully balanced flavors.

• JY's (Two Michelin stars): Located along the scenic canals of Colmar's Petite Venise district, JY’s offers multi-course tasting menus with precise, technique-driven dishes. The cuisine blends French and international flavors, with an emphasis on textures and contrasts.  JY's features a light and airy dining space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Parc du Champ-de-Mars. During warmer months, guests can enjoy outdoor seating, enhancing the dining experience with picturesque views.

• Le Gourmet is housed in the five-star Hôtel L'Esquisse, this restaurant specializes in seasonal tasting menus featuring high-quality Alsatian ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant but not overly formal

• Le Petit Bidon is a charming, family-run establishment praised for its fresh, solid food and attentive wine pairings. 

• Le Quai 21 offers modern French cuisine in a stylish setting, providing a contemporary dining experience in Colmar. ​

• La Fleur de Sel, in Little Venice is known for its regional specialties and charming location.

Accommodations in Colmar:

• La Maison des Têtes: Located in the heart of Colmar, La Maison des Têtes is an architectural gem set in a 17th-century building that bears the distinctive faces ("têtes") on its facade. Inside, the hotel offers individually designed rooms, each combining historic charm with modern amenities. The decor mixes antique furnishings with contemporary touches, making each space unique. Guests can enjoy an unforgettable dining experience at the Michelin-starred restaurant, which serves refined regional cuisine. The hotel’s central location places visitors just steps away from Colmar’s most iconic attractions.

• L’Esguisse Hotel and Spa is a refined boutique property in the heart of Colmar, offering a blend of contemporary design and classic Alsatian charm. Housed in a beautifully restored building, the hotel creates a serene ambiance, with understated yet elegant interiors. The hotel’s standout feature is its luxurious spa with a focus on natural ingredients.

Perks if booked through Viewfinder Travel

Daily complimentary breakfast for 2, per room

VIP Welcome

$100 USD credit to be spent on property (conditions defined at check-in)

Early check-in & late check-out (upon availability)

Upgrade at time of check-in (upon availability)

Wine and Culinary Highlights on Your Cycling Route:

Wineries:

• Domaine Weinbach: Organic biodynamic wines with family-run charm

• Trimbach Winery: Nine generations of winemaking expertise

• Le Chambard in Kaysersberg: Where five-star comfort meets historical authenticity

• Restaurant Buerehiesel: A three-Michelin-starred temple of gastronomic meditation

Culinary Experiences Along the Alsace Cycling Route:

• Auberge de l'Ill: Three Michelin stars, considered one of France's most exceptional restaurants.

• Pâtisserie Gilg –Colmar. Unlike their Parisian cousins, Alsatian macarons are rustic, almond-based treats with a slightly crisp exterior and a soft, chewy center.

• Truffière d’Alsace – Meistratzheim (near Obernai) Join an expert truffle hunter and his dog in search of Alsace’s black truffles, followed by a tasting of fresh truffle-infused dishes with local wines.

• Pavillon Gourmet – Ostwald (near Strasbourg) This floating gastronomic restaurant offers a Michelin-starred tasting menu while gently gliding along the waterways outside Strasbourg.

There are other small towns along the route that might be worth a quick stop, especially if you are on a bike and can stop for a coffee or apperitif.

• Barr is a wine lover's paradise with a rich winemaking heritage that dates back centuries. Its picturesque streets are lined with elegant wine houses.

• Mittelbergheim is recognized as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," and boasts immaculately preserved stone and timber houses climbing up the hillside. This small village is known for its Sylvaner wines and charming narrow streets. The local winemakers are typically very welcoming for tastings. 

• Andlau is a small village which sits dramatically at the foot of the Vosges Mountains. The town is surrounded by some of the most beautiful vineyards in Alsace, with wine-producing traditions that date back to the medieval monasteries that once dominated the region, and home to a remarkable Romanesque church

• Dambach-la-Ville is known as the "Capital of Grands Crus”.   It is encircled by defensive walls that have protected its wine-producing heritage for centuries. The town offers a perfect blend of historical architecture and world-class vineyards, with medieval streets that wind between stone houses and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding wine country.

• Bergheim is awalled medieval village with beautiful half-timbered houses and excellent wineries like Gustave Lorentz, and far less crowded than Riquewihr or Eguisheim.

• Katzenthal is seated beneath the ruins of Wineck Castle and is home to some excellent Pinot Noirs.  

• Niedermorschwihr  is home to the renowned winemaker Christine Ferber (known as the "jam fairy").  The village offers both excellent wines and incredible artisanal preserves.  Albert Boxler offers some of the most highly regarded wines in the Alsace region, with a focus on high-quality, terroir-driven expressions for exceptional Riesling and Gewürztraminer production.

•  While its church-fortress is somewhat known, Hunawihr remains relatively peaceful with beautiful vineyard views and a stork reintroduction center.

  
  

  

  Turkheim, France

  
  

Viewfinder Travel company is a boutique travel agency that designs unique, life enhancing experiences, and provides exceptional service.  Whether you are in search of cultural sustenance, a relaxing island unwind, a gourmet escape, a picturesque countryside or the invigoration of a city, Viewfinder Travel will find your recipe for travel magic.  We are reliable, detail-oriented, and have a flare for finding the beautiful, off the beaten path, “boutique” experiences so you can put your efforts into finding the fun and not into the logistics. 

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