Traveling Expats

During our stay in the enchanting city of Colmar in the Alsace region of France, we couldn’t resist the allure of a day trip along the famous Route du Vin, or the Alsatian Wine Route. This journey led us to three of the most picturesque villages you could ever imagine—Eguisheim, Hunawihr, and Ribeauvillé. Each village felt like a step into a fairytale, with charming streets, historic architecture, and the kind of beauty that seems almost too perfect to be real.

_Colmar

Driving through Alsace was a breeze for us as experienced drivers from abroad. If you’re planning to do the same, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with French road rules, have an international driver’s license on hand, and ensure your insurance covers you in France. And for American drivers, a quick brush-up on converting kilometers to miles can make navigation much simpler!

Why Does Alsace Feel So German?

As we meandered through Alsace, we couldn’t help but notice the strong Germanic influence in the region. This might leave you wondering why Alsace often feels more German than French. The answer lies in its complex history. Positioned on the border between France and Germany, Alsace has been shaped by centuries of shifting control between these two nations. Originally part of the Holy Roman Empire, Alsace was predominantly German-speaking and culturally tied to Germany. This influence is still evident today in the region’s architecture, food, traditions, and even the names of its villages, many of which bear Germanic origins. Despite becoming part of France in the mid-17th century and again after both World Wars, the Germanic roots of Alsace remain a vibrant part of its identity.

_{Saint Leon Fountain}

Morning: Eguisheim

Our day began in the enchanting village of Eguisheim. As the morning light illuminated the town’s medieval buildings, we were captivated by the village’s unique concentric layout, with its streets spiraling out from the central Château Saint-Léon. Eguisheim is a photographer’s paradise, with picturesque views at every turn.

Highlights in Eguisheim

Château Saint-Léon: We started our exploration here, surrounded by quaint half-timbered houses that looked like they were plucked from a storybook.

_{Saint Leon Fountain with the Chapel of St Leon in the background}

_{Interior of the Chapel of Saint Leon}

Saint-Léon Fountain: This charming fountain, named after Pope Leo IX, is adorned with flowers and adds to the village’s fairytale charm.

Church of Saints Peter and Paul: The church’s gothic belltower, dating back to 1220, is a must-see, along with its beautifully preserved porch featuring intricate sculptures.

Wine Tasting: We couldn’t leave without sampling some local wines. At the Wolfsberger winery, we indulged in a tasting of their crisp Rieslings, bringing home a few bottles to remember the experience.

_{Wolfberger Wine shop for delicious wine from the region}

Pigeonry in Rue Du Rempart: This picturesque spot is rumored to have inspired Belle’s house in “Beauty and the Beast.” It’s a popular photo location, so patience is key to capturing the perfect shot.

Midday: Hunawihr

_{House in Hunawihr}

Next, we visited the tranquil village of Hunawihr, nestled among rolling vineyards. Recognized as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France,’ Hunawihr offers a peaceful retreat on the Route du Vin.

Highlights in Hunawihr:

Church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur: This fortified church offers stunning panoramic views of the vineyards and a glimpse into the region’s history with its ancient frescoes and Romanesque architecture.

_{The exterior and interior of the fortified Church of Saint Jacques}

Butterfly Garden: We enjoyed a magical stroll through the Jardin des Papillons, surrounded by fluttering butterflies in a lush greenhouse.

_{Lovely fountain in Hunawihr}

Stork Reintroduction Center: Hunawihr is known for its efforts to reintroduce storks to the region, and we learned about these majestic birds at the local center.

_{Storks are everywhere in Alsace}

Afternoon: Ribeauvillé

_{Town square in Ribeauville}

Our final stop was the lively town of Ribeauvillé, one of the few places along the Route du Vin with a French name. The blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture here is truly captivating.

Highlights in Ribeauvillé:

Grand’Rue: This bustling main street is lined with colorful buildings, shops, and cafes. We strolled along, enjoying local pastries and admiring the beautiful facades.

_{Along the Grand’Rue}

Château de Saint-Ulrich: A hike up the hillside rewarded us with breathtaking views from the ruins of this historic castle.

_{Chateau de Saint-Ulrich up on the hill}

Metzgerturm (Butcher’s Tower): This medieval gate tower, built in the late 13th century, still houses the bell that once signaled curfew to the townspeople.

_Metzgerturm

Evening: Farewell to the Route du Vin

As the sun set over the vineyards, we reflected on our journey along the Route du Vin. Each village we visited offered a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Alsace. From the medieval charm of Eguisheim to the serene beauty of Hunawihr and the historical allure of Ribeauvillé, our day trip was a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We left with a deeper appreciation for Alsace’s wines, its storied past, and the warm hospitality of its people, already dreaming of our next visit.

Addendum: Christmas Markets

_{Above and below – Christmas decorations in Strasbourg}

Christmas and holiday enthusiasts, take note! Some of the most enchanting Christmas markets in all of Europe can be found in the Alsace region. If you’re seeking the perfect place to immerse yourself in the festive spirit, Alsace should be at the top of your list for a holiday getaway. From late November through December, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, charming stalls, and the warm aroma of spiced wine filling the air. Whether you’re after unique gifts, delicious treats, or simply the magic of the season, Alsace offers an unforgettable holiday experience.

To see more from our visit to the Route du Vin, check out our Youtube video below. Thanks for watching!