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France Alsace and La Route de Vin
Alsace is a region rich in tradition and full of splendid contrasts, from its winestubs, ferme auberges, and gourmet cuisine to its superb countryside and fortified chateaux. Its exquisite cultural mix gives it a unique ambience this is profoundly European. The famous Route du Vin encompasses at least 100 wine producing villages between Strasbourg and Colmar, which create some of France's best wines. With no less than 38 Michelin star restaurants (more than any other region in France), Alsace offers not only traditional dishes like the famous baeckeofe, or thetourte from the Munster Valley, but also a more sophisticated and refined cuisine. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the beauty of its traditional architecture; village after village of pretty half- timbered houses decked with brilliantly colored flowers. The nearby mountains, magnificent and grand, with their sprawling pine trees, beckon you to discover them. Perhaps more impressive than its mountains, cuisine, or architecture, is the history that lies behind them. Come and experience how that history has become an important part of the present. Tour available as both Self Guided and Guided Includes:
Difficulty: Easy: 25 miles, 4-5 hours 2003 Dates: |
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| DAYS | ITINERARY |
| Day 1 | We arrive at the lovely village of Soultzmatt, a typical Alsacian wine producing village surrounded by vineyards and pine forests. The village boasts a natural spring that produces the Lisbeth mineral water. There will be a tour introduction and we will be fitted with our bikes and equipment. After a short warm-up ride on the small forest roads, the remainder of the day can be spent relaxing by the pool. Distance 20 km. Overnight in the region of Soultzmatt. |
| Day 2 | After breakfast we head out on a wonderful circular route that takes us through pine forests, open countryside and along small vineyard roads. We will have splendid views of the Vosges mountains and the Rhine Valley. Our tour takes us through villages such as Osenbach, surrounded by forest and meadows, and Gueberschwihr set in the heart of the vines. Distance 35 or 40 km. Overnight in the region of Soultzmatt. |
| Day 3 | After our morning briefing, we head out on through vineyards and fortified Alsacian villages to Riquewihr. En route we will have a wine tasting in the village of Voegtlinshoffen, set in the heart of the vines. Riquewihr is a picture perfect jewel with its multi-colored flowers and cobblestone streets. In the evening we can stroll around the ramparts surrounding the centre of the village and admire the ancient stone and half-timbered buildings. We can then relax at our quaint hotel, which can be found in the centre of the village within the ramparts. Distance 40 km. Overnight in the region of Riquewihr. |
| Day 4 | Today we have a choice of 2 superb routes. The first takes us up into the mountains through some stunning countryside before returning through the wine town of Ribeauvillé, which must be explored. Overlooking Ribeauvillé are some ancient ruined châteaux (fortresses) that can be reached on foot. Our second option takes us to Colmar, a small town that is full of beauty, culture and history. The maze of cobbled streets gives the impression that one is walking in a bygone age. Perfect picture postcard spots such as 'La Petite Venise' (Little Venice) must be seen! Distance 30 or 50 km. Overnight in the region of Riquewihr. |
| Day 5 | After our morning briefing, we head out along 'La Route du Vin'. We will be overlooked by the majestic castle of Haut-Koenigsbourg, perched on top of a mountain, for a good part of our ride. Ottrott is a village on the 'Route du Vin' famous for its red wine and is overlooked by the convent of Mont Sainte Odile. Distance 40 km. Overnight in the region of Ottrott. |
| Day 6 | Today we head out on a circular route that takes in the charming medieval town of Obernai, which has to be explored, as well as many villages such as Rosheim - famous for its Romanesque church - with much history. On returning, the more energetic amongst you can explore the mysterious 'Pagan Wall' which surrounds the convent of Sainte Odile! Distance 30 km. Overnight in the region of Ottrott. |
| Day 7 | Our tour ends after breakfast. We are happy to arrange extensions, which would allow us more time to explore the delights of Strasbourg. |
Want more information or would like to book your trip? Please call Days Off Travel toll free 1-877-580-0861 or email: bikealsace@daysofftravel.com