Wine 69

The Alsace wine road runs between Marlenheim near Strasbourg and Thann near Mulhouse and is a very popular and attractive way to explore this eastern French region whilst learning and enjoying the food and wine produced here.  The route covers a very scenic area between the eastern edge of the Vosges Mountains and the River Rhine.  Driving through traditional and colouful villages, this is one of France’s smaller wine producing regions but it has some magnificent scenery and of course produces some very fine tasting wines.  The route is well signposted and at each place of special interest there are marked footpaths which take you through the vineyards to discover the cellars and diverse landscapes of each winery.  Rent a mountain bike or travel on foot into the countryside with a picnic, or stop stop for lunch at one of the inns or wineries followed by a tasting session, these are days to relax and enjoy the slow pace of life and the beautiful French countryside.

Travelling through 27 very beautiful and important villages gives you the opportunity to stop on your travels to sample over 50 of the local wines classified as ‘grand cru’ from the Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sylvaner, Muscat and Gewürztraminer grape varieties.  On top of the attraction of wine and vineyards the route passes picturesque villages with black and white buildings,flowered balconies and medieval castles. One of the best examples of these traditional communities is the epicentre of the wine making region, the village of Eguisheim. 

Eguisheim dates back to the Middle Ages which is evident from the narrow winding streets, its black and white buildings and the remains of the once fortified castle.  As far back as the 4^th century the area became well known for its wine which was found on the tables of royalty in both England and Holland.  The village is also popular because all varities of Alsatian grapes are grown here so if your time is limited or prefer not to travel the whole route, you can experience all the regions wines in one location.

Eguisheim Hotels

If you would like to stay here, the Eguisheim hotels come in a great many shapes and sizes in a mixture of French and German styles.  Two hotels which are considered to be excellent value for money for visitors on the wine route are the Hostellerie Des Comtes Eguisheim and the Hotel Saint Hubert Eguisheim. 

Hostellerie Des Comtes Eguisheim is proud of its intimate atmosphere and gastronomic delights.  The 14 non smoking guest rooms are clean and bright and feature TV, telephone, hairdryer and net access for visitors who like to keep in touch.

Hotel Saint Hubert Eguisheim is a modern hotel surrounded by vineyards with dramatic views of the Black Forest.  With just 15 en suite guest rooms  the hotel offers is guest’s personal service and facilities such as TV, telephone and mini bar heated indoor swimming pool and sauna.

The Alsace wine route is a very picturesque way of discovering the beauties of the border region with Germany, and a wholly different experience to the other wine producing areas of France.