Top 5 Colmar Day Trips: Explore Beyond the Fairytale
Colmar, France, is very much like stepping right into a storybook, that’s definitely right, and it’s often admired because of its cute houses, canal views, also its general fairytale appeal, so you know. Yet, the region right around Colmar happens to be loaded up with appealing villages, scenic beauty, plus historic spots, so naturally a day trip turns out to be an excellent idea. Get all set to check some top picks that could very easily turn an average vacation into an unforgettable experience.
1. Eguisheim: A Circle of Beauty
Eguisheim, found just a short drive southeast of Colmar, gives individuals a genuinely lovely peek at a standard Alsatian village, and is something you should consider. Commonly mentioned like one of France’s cutest villages, Eguisheim shows off a special circular design going back to medieval days, more or less. Strolling the concentric roads gives individuals an exceptionally intimate view of half-timbered buildings bursting with flower boxes that happen to be pretty picturesque. Take your camera, mainly because nearly every nook has a picture postcard chance, more or less.
One could linger in Place Saint-Léon IX, that is actually the center of Eguisheim, and see the castle that was the birth place to Pope Leo IX. Quite apparently, there’s many small wineries and tasting rooms because of the village’s renowned wine making history; certainly enjoy a local Riesling perhaps, and taste a bit of local flavors. The food scene doesn’t disappoint either; it turns out that there’s several local restaurants providing customary Alsatian food items. In a way, it’s a feast for the eyes and a fulfillment for the tastebuds.
Read our full review: Eguisheim Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
2. Riquewihr: The Gem of the Alsace Wine Route
Often labeled like the “Gem of the Alsace Wine Route,” Riquewihr remains only a short drive north of Colmar. Fortunately, this greatly maintained medieval village really stayed free from destruction over the course of the world wars, and as a consequence features true architecture, so naturally. Surrounded with vineyard hills, the atmosphere happens to be immediately enticing and welcoming. That’s something good to consider when planning your trip.
As you step on the cobbled roadways, you will notice the timber-framed houses are decorated beautifully and several small stores are showcasing regional crafts and food products. Take into consideration that a must-see site has got to be the Dolder Tower, previously a defensive structure now delivering sweeping panoramic views over the village and wineries. One can test local wines inside of the various cellars – Silvaner or maybe Pinot Noir – because of the village’s great wine making background, that’s true, so, too. For every person hoping to taste real Alsatian cuisine, a good many restaurants will definitely fulfill any kind of desire you have, seemingly.
Read our full review: Riquewihr Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
3. Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg: A Castle with a View
For people fascinated by history and beautiful scenery, a day at Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg will truly be something worth thinking about, that’s a fact. This really majestic castle, perfectly perched way high on a hill top, grants exceptional scenic views of the Alsace plain so, too the Vosges Mountains. You see, this impressive stronghold has literally existed since the 12th century, along with centuries of change as the occupants changed frequently.
Basically, one might take their time learning more about the amazingly well-kept interior, packed with medieval home furniture, plus arms selections, just like it seemed a few centuries back, and discover several parts which depict elements of early construction processes as well as a brief summary for renovation campaigns from early 1900s forward. The spectacular scenery makes this spot specifically photogenic as well and renders an extremely amazing landscape that one would love exploring whether by themself or with relatives.
Read our full review: Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
4. Kaysersberg: Wine and Charm Combined
Kaysersberg, which implies “Emperor’s Mountain,” shows individuals all of the charm that one might look forward to through an Alsatian village by mixing this with significant historical past, you can say. Kaysersberg is actually the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, plus it features a medieval link that goes completely back once it had been a Free Imperial City within the Empire, you see.
As soon as there, find old architectural details while walking round the Fortified Bridge, including classic homes that will clearly show off timber-framed facades that feature vibrant floral displays – something almost magical for vacationers going around. Explore neighborhood wine cellars, which is often popular because they’re situated along the Alsace Wine Route too; tasting local wines will enable you to comprehend why they enjoy regional reputation throughout their winemaking customs; possibly choose Sylvaner varietals perhaps?
Read our full review: Kaysersberg Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
5. Strasbourg: A Blend of French and German Influence
Going a bit farther afield, Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace, includes a diverse cultural landscape mixing German and French impacts – it’s pretty interesting to visit, you know. Located pretty close to Colmar via regional train routes or roadways this appealing city features lots of locations most notably the historic Grande Île zone a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s got an old quarter with architectural elegance. As a matter of fact you can find buildings for instance Strasbourg Cathedral displaying detailed Gothic architecture that extends so high above you so they are clearly seen virtually any place within those grounds, that’s absolutely right.
Wander on into La Petite France, in which historic tanneries and mills will certainly captivate you, alongside canal-side restaurants ideally suited to savor conventional Alsatian cuisine, it appears. You will discover a number of museums in that section along with galleries portraying many artworks demonstrating deep seated traditions or innovative displays showing culture that’s all its own, which makes this amazing place not merely pleasing to the eye but incredibly enlightening as well.
Read our full review: Strasbourg Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)