Tucked between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine River, Alsace is a region where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, half-timbered houses glow in pastel colors, and life unfolds at a slower pace. It is a land that captures the imagination with its mix of French elegance and German traditions, a destination that invites you to explore by foot, by glass, or by bike. Whether you are drawn to wine tasting, cultural treasures, or cycling through scenic landscapes, Alsace offers an irresistible blend of experiences.
In this journey, we will explore the highlights of the Alsace Wine Tour: the vibrant city of Strasbourg, the fairy-tale charm of Obernai, the timeless beauty of the Riquewihr area, and the romantic canals of Colmar.
Strasbourg: where French and German cultures meet
Strasbourg is more than just the capital of Alsace; it is the cultural and historical heart of the region. Its UNESCO-listed Grande Île is a maze of cobblestone streets, canals, and medieval houses that seem frozen in time. Wandering through the quarter of La Petite France feels like stepping into a painting, where colorful timber-framed houses are mirrored in the calm waters of the canals. Rising above it all is the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with a spire that reaches 142 meters high. Inside, the astronomical clock amazes visitors with its precision, while the cathedral’s platform offers sweeping views across the Rhine plain and even to the distant Black Forest.
After a day of discovery, Strasbourg rewards you with culinary delights. Classic Alsatian dishes like tarte flambée or choucroute garnie come alive when paired with a crisp glass of Riesling or Gewürztraminer. The city is also one of Europe’s most bike-friendly destinations, offering direct connections to the Alsace Wine Route. For travelers eager to begin their cycling journey, Strasbourg provides the perfect gateway.
Obernai: a fairytale town at the foot of the Vosges
Leaving Strasbourg behind, the road leads to Obernai, a town that feels as if it belongs in a storybook. Surrounded by medieval walls, Obernai charms visitors with its lively squares, flower-decked fountains, and vibrant houses that tell centuries of history. The town’s atmosphere is both intimate and authentic, making it an ideal stop along the Wine Route.
Obernai is also deeply connected to Alsace’s wine tradition. Local wine cellars invite travelers to taste the region’s distinctive grape varieties, from the fresh notes of Pinot Blanc to the fragrant bouquet of Gewürztraminer. Beyond the tastings, cycling through the vineyards around Obernai is an experience in itself, with gentle slopes, panoramic views, and the intoxicating scent of vines in the air. For a sweet pause, the town’s bakeries offer kougelhopf, a traditional Alsatian cake best enjoyed with a glass of local wine.
Riquewihr: where time stands still
Further along the route lies Riquewihr, a village often described as one of the most beautiful in France. Walking through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. The brightly painted half-timbered houses, adorned with flowers, line narrow alleys that are alive with artisan shops and traditional taverns. It is a place where history and daily life merge seamlessly, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
The surrounding vineyards are just as captivating. This area produces some of the finest Rieslings in Alsace, and many wineries open their doors to visitors eager to taste their wines. The cycling paths that wind through the vineyards are among the most scenic in the region, offering endless panoramas of rolling hills and the Vosges mountains beyond. In Riquewihr, the essence of Alsace is everywhere—in the glass, in the architecture, and in the rhythm of village life.
Colmar: the jewel of Alsace
The journey culminates in Colmar, a city often called the “Little Venice” of Alsace. With its pastel-colored houses, flower-decked balconies, and canals that reflect the sunlight, Colmar is a masterpiece of charm and beauty. It is a city that enchants at every turn, from its romantic corners to its lively markets.
Among its cultural treasures, the Unterlinden Museum stands out with its celebrated Isenheim Altarpiece, a Renaissance masterpiece. Yet it is the Old Town that leaves the deepest impression, with its narrow streets, historic houses, and cozy winstubs where wine flows generously. Colmar is also the ideal place to raise a glass of Crémant d’Alsace, the sparkling wine that rivals Champagne in quality.
For cyclists, Colmar serves as a perfect hub, with easy access to vineyard trails and countryside routes. Ending a day of cycling with a glass of wine by the canals as the sun sets is one of those moments that stay in memory long after the journey ends.
Experience Alsace by bike with FunActive Tours
Exploring Alsace by bike means experiencing the region at the perfect pace—slow enough to savor the details, yet active enough to feel part of the landscapes. With FunActive Tours, the journey becomes even more enjoyable. Carefully designed itineraries take you through Strasbourg, Obernai, Riquewihr, and Colmar, while luggage transport allows you to travel light and carefree. Each night, you’ll rest in handpicked accommodations that combine comfort with authenticity, giving you a true taste of Alsatian hospitality.
The Alsace Wine Tour is more than a holiday; it is an immersion into a region where culture, history, gastronomy, and nature meet. It is about discovering timeless villages, tasting world-class wines, and cycling through landscapes that feel like a dream.
Ready to discover Alsace? Join FunActive Tours and let the Alsace Wine Tour lead you through vineyards, villages, and unforgettable memories.
