The Wine Route of Alsace stretches over 170 kilometers, from Marckolsheim to Thann. It runs along the vineyard road and offers visitors the opportunity to discover the best wines of Alsace. The Wine Route is an opportunity to pause at the wineries, participate in wine tastings, and visit cellars. Visitors can also take advantage of the itinerary to discover the typical villages of the region, such as Riquewihr or Eguisheim. The Wine Route of Alsace is a very popular tourist circuit for wine lovers and food enthusiasts.
To fully enjoy the Wine Route, it is recommended to rent a car. This allows you to stop at wineries and visit the villages at your own pace. The Wine Route is a very busy itinerary in the summer, so it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance.
The 5 Major Stages of the Alsace Wine Route🍇
The North of the Wine Route: an exoticism at every turn
An hour’s drive north of Strasbourg, the land of Wissembourg and Cleebourg unveils a lesser-known but equally charming Alsace. Imagine a place where time seems suspended: Wissembourg, with its unique heritage, welcomes you between its walls filled with history. Not far away, Hunspach, voted one of the most beautiful villages in France, and the Cleebourg vineyard, the northernmost in the region, await wine enthusiasts. As early as the 8th century, the first vines were planted here, cultivated today with a passion visible in every bottle of Sylvaner or Riesling that you will taste.
Discover a flourishing terroir around Strasbourg
Just outside the European capital, the vineyard stretches from Marlenheim to Molsheim, a territory that marries medieval heritage and lush nature. This part of the Wine Route of Alsace is an invitation to traverse a constant enchantment, where each village seems to tell a story. The cellars and wineries of the region open their doors wide, promising memorable tastings. Don’t miss the opportunity for a stroll along the vineyard paths, where the views of the surroundings are as captivating as the wines themselves.
The vibrant heart of the vineyard in Central Alsace
In the center of the region, between Strasbourg and Colmar, the vineyard reveals striking diversity. Vines and forests blend around enchanting villages and ruined castles, like the famous Haut-Koenigsbourg. In Rosheim, admire the religious buildings and treat yourself to a tasting pause to savor the Klevener de Heiligenstein. This area, rich in its renowned wines, embodies the deep soul of the Alsatian vineyard.
Between Colmar and its villages, a natural elegance
The Land of Colmar is elegance embodied between plain, mountain, and vineyard. An essential stop on the Wine Route, this region is dotted with picturesque villages such as Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, and Riquewihr. In Colmar, the capital of Alsatian wines, every nook invites discovery. The half-timbered houses, flower-filled windows, and cobbled streets create a lively postcard scene.
The South of the Wine Route: freedom and grandeur of nature
From Thann to Soultzmatt, explore a wilder Alsace. The vineyard, situated between the Vosges peaks and the Alsatian plain, offers breathtaking panoramas. Thann is famous for its Grand Cru Rangen, while Guebwiller stands out with four Grands Crus. Here, Roman heritage merges with generous nature, offering an experience that is both authentic and grand.
The Wine Route is an excellent way to discover the winemaking richness of the region. Wine lovers will find their happiness here, as well as foodies who can taste numerous Alsatian regional products.
The most beautiful villages and wine cities along the wine route
Thann : the medieval charm at the foot of the Vosges 🏰
In the south of Alsace, Thann welcomes you with its impressive architectural heritage, dominated by the strange “Eye of the Witch” of the Engelbourg castle. The Saint-Thiébaut Collegiate Church, a gothic masterpiece, stands proudly in the city center, testament to the rich history of the region. Don’t miss the Rangen, a grand cru unique on a volcanic terroir, praised as early as 1580 by Michel de Montaigne for its “most beautiful and well-cultivated” vines.
Eguisheim : the essence of Alsace in colors 🌺
Eguisheim, voted several times as the French favorite village, enchants its visitors with its circular streets lined with colorful half-timbered houses. Explore its ramparts, its ancient inscriptions on lintels, and its Castle Square which offers a glimpse into the local Christian heritage. For wine lovers, a glass of the grand cru Eichberg is a must. If you are drawn to nature, the vineyard accessible by foot, segway, or bike offers spectacular views.
©Max Coquard – Best Jobers[/caption>
Kaysersberg : a journey through time ⏳
Visit Kaysersberg, where half-timbered houses, the 13th-century church, and the famous fortified bridge create a medieval fairy tale atmosphere. Climb the castle tower for a magnificent view of the town. The birthplace of Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the house converted into a museum enriches the cultural journey.
©ART GE – Meyer
Riquewihr : romanticism and vineyards 🍇
©31 Photography
Riquewihr, the “little pearl of Alsace,” is a model of conservation with its medieval ramparts and traditional houses. Wine lovers will appreciate the local cellars offering tastings of the terroir. Don’t miss Geo Vino for an immersion into the winemaking expertise of the region.
Ribeauvillé : medieval festivity and traditions 🎉
The town of Ribeauvillé, known for its festivities such as the Pfifferdaj, evokes a bygone era with its castles and towers. Stroll between vineyards and forests to discover these historical sites and immerse yourself in a unique festive atmosphere.
©Tristan Vuano
Bergheim : the best-kept secret of Alsace 🔍
Bergheim, surrounded by vineyards and dominated by the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, is an exceptional example of a fortified village. A walk around the ramparts is ideal for discovering this remarkable heritage.
© Quentin Gachon – OT Ribeauvillé-Riquewihr
Mittelbergheim, a hidden gem of Alsace 🍇
Nestled on a rocky promontory, surrounded by lush vineyards, Mittelbergheim stands out for its exceptional architecture and rich history. This village, reflecting the harmony of the 17th and 18th centuries, is known for its style and atmosphere that seem frozen in time. Here, each building and each stone tells the stories of a glorious winemaking past.
At the heart of this village lies the Zotzenberg, a classified Grand Cru terroir, which is the sanctuary of the Sylvaner grape, a local pride. Visitors are invited to discover these exceptional wines directly in the welcoming cellars where a fraternal and jovial atmosphere reigns.
While walking the vineyard trail on the heights, don’t miss the natural spectacle in spring when wild tulips, with their golden yellow, bloom, creating a vivid and colorful tableau. In summer, the village comes alive with its terroir market and its famous wine festival in July, perfect moments to immerse yourself in local culture.
©Studio Pygmalion
Obernai, crossroads of history and culture in Alsace 🌟
Obernai, located at the junction of ancient trade routes, shines with its imposing half-timbered houses and its emblematic belfry dominating the main square. The town, vibrant all year round, offers a charming setting with its ramparts and secret gardens that invite leisurely strolls.
Every May, the Pisteurs d’étoiles festival, dedicated to circus arts, transforms Obernai into an open stage, inviting the discovery of circus talents. For wine enthusiasts, a stroll along the Schenkenberg vineyard trail offers breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding plain.
©Lez Broz
Rosheim, the historical heart of the Alsace Wine Route 🍇
At the foot of Mont Sainte-Odile, Rosheim stands out with its incredible Romanesque architecture. The Roman House and the Saints Peter and Paul Church are jewels that testify to the historical richness of the town. These sites, with their detailed sculptures and capitals, are a must for any visitor.
The green path “Porte Bonheur, chemin des carrières” offers a beautiful escape between vineyards, fields, and forests, ideal for a day of relaxation and discovery between Rosheim and Saint-Nabor.
©ART GE – Birgé
Wissembourg, where culture and history meet at the border of Alsace 📚
Wissembourg, in northern Alsace, draws its unique character from its history as a monastic town and its vineyard, developed as early as the 7th century. The beautiful Abbey of Saint Peter and Paul is the beating heart of this heritage richness.
The channels of the Lauter and the charming Faubourg de Bitche are perfect places for a tranquil walk to discover the town’s winemaking past. At Pentecost, Wissembourg awakens with three days of vibrant festivities, an ideal time for a visit.
©Max Coquard – Best Jobers
The best wines of Alsace: the grands crus not to be missed
The Wine Route of Alsace is one of the most beautiful wine routes in Europe. It stretches over 170 kilometers, from Marckolsheim to Thann, passing through Colmar and Ribeauvillé. It is an opportunity to discover the best wines of Alsace, renowned worldwide for their quality. Wine enthusiasts will not miss stopping at the numerous cellars and wineries along the route. Here are some of the best wines of Alsace to discover without fail!
The Grand Cru Riesling Pfersigberg from Domaine Weinbach is a dry and aromatic white wine. It has a beautiful pale yellow robe and aromas of exotic fruits, lemon, and honey. The Pfersigberg is a grand cru of Alsace located on the slopes of the Pfersigberg, southwest of Colmar. The clay-limestone soil of the cru is conducive to the production of aromatic and mineral wines.
The Muscat Ottonel from Domaine Zind-Humbrecht is a sweet and fragrant white wine. It has a pale yellow robe and aromas of white-fleshed fruits, honey, and roses. The Muscat Ottonel is a small-grain muscat variety originally from Alsace. It is produced on the slopes of Haut-Rhin, between Colmar and Mulhouse.
The Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Hengst from Domaine Trimbach is a sweet and aromatic white wine. It has a golden yellow robe and aromas of exotic fruits, rose, and cinnamon. The Hengst is a grand cru of Alsace located on the slopes of Hengst, southeast of Colmar. The limestone soil of the cru is favorable for producing aromatic and full-bodied wines.
The Pinot Gris Grand Cru Vogelgarten from Domaine Josmeyer is a dry and aromatic white wine. It has a pale yellow robe and aromas of stone fruits, honey, and hazelnuts. The Vogelgarten is a grand cru of Alsace located on the slopes of Vogelgarten, southwest of Colmar. The clay-limestone soil of the cru is conducive to the production of aromatic and mineral wines.
The Pinot Noir from Domaine Marcel Deiss is a fruity red wine with light tannins. It has a ruby robe and aromas of red fruits, cherries, and plums.
Where to taste Alsace wines? The best addresses along the Wine Route
Alsace is a magnificent wine region located in France, at the border with Germany and Switzerland. This region is famous for its dry and fruity white wines, but it also produces red wines and sweet wines. The Alsace Wine Route is a tourist route that traverses the main wine-growing regions of Alsace. It offers visitors the chance to taste the best wines of Alsace in the numerous wine estates and wine cellars along the route.
The best wines of Alsace are found in the wine-growing regions of Haut-Rhin and Bas-Rhin. The wines from Haut-Rhin are renowned for their acidity and minerality, while the wines from Bas-Rhin are known for their fruitiness and sweetness. The Alsace Wine Route begins in the city of Colmar and continues south to the city of Strasbourg. It is dotted with numerous wine estates and wine cellars, where visitors can taste and purchase the best wines of Alsace.
Among the best wine estates and wine cellars along the Alsace Wine Route, we can mention the estates André Ostertag, Marcel Deiss, Hugel and Fürst, and Zind-Humbrecht. These wine estates offer wine tastings and tours of their cellars. Visitors can also purchase wines in their shops.
Ostertag: Arthur signs sensitive and radiant wines
André Ostertag is a renowned winemaker along the Alsace Wine Route. He produces dry white wines and fruity red wines. The André Ostertag estate offers wine tastings and cellar tours. Visitors can also purchase wines in the estate’s shop.
87 Rue du Finkwiller, 67680 Epfig
Domaine Marcel Deiss: Alsatian wines in co-planting
Marcel Deiss is another renowned winemaker along the Alsace Wine Route. He produces dry white wines and red wines. The Marcel Deiss estate offers wine tastings and cellar tours. Visitors can also purchase wines in the estate’s shop.
15 Rte du Vin, 68750 Bergheim
Hugel Family, Hugel Family, since 1639 in Riquewihr
Hugel and Fürst is a renowned wine estate along the Alsace Wine Route. It produces dry white wines and red wines. The Hugel and Fürst estate offers wine tastings and cellar tours. Visitors can also purchase wines in the estate’s shop.
Don’t miss along your way, the Ecomuseum of Alsace.
The wines of Alsace: an exceptional winemaking heritage
The Wine Route of Alsace stretches over 170 kilometers, from Marckolsheim to Thann. It is an opportunity to discover the best wines of Alsace, produced in the 13 wine-growing communes of Alsace. The wines of Alsace are renowned worldwide for their quality and originality. The grands crus of Alsace come from the best terroirs in the region and offer a unique palette of flavors. The white wines of Alsace, in particular, are famous for their mineral character and pronounced acidity. The red grands crus of Alsace, on the other hand, are rich and concentrated, with aromas of dark fruits and licorice. The rosé wines of Alsace are also highly appreciated for their freshness and fruitiness.
Among the best wines of Alsace, we find Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot gris, Muscat of Alsace, and Sylvaner. The wines of Alsace are generally made from late-maturing grape varieties, which give them excellent cold resistance. The clay-limestone soils of the Alsatian vineyard are also conducive to producing quality wines.
To taste the best wines of Alsace, head to one of the many wine cellars in the region. This way you can fully enjoy your trip along the Alsace Wine Route!
On the road to the Wine Route: the best driving itineraries
The Alsace Wine Route is one of the most beautiful vineyard roads in Europe. It stretches for 170 km, from the south of Colmar to the village of Thann, passing through the valleys of Munster and Kaysersberg. The road is dotted with vineyards, small stone villages, and medieval castles. It is an ideal place for a road trip, whether with a partner or friends.
To make the most of your trip, here are some tips. First of all, don’t hesitate to stop in the different villages along the way. Each has its character and specialties. Munster, for example, is famous for its cheese, Kaysersberg for its white wine, and Riquewihr for its half-timbered houses. Moreover, most villages offer wine tastings and cellar tours. Also, take the opportunity to enjoy beautiful walks in the vineyards or along the banks of the Rhine. Finally, don’t forget to taste the Alsatian culinary specialties, such as sauerkraut, four-quarters with candied fruits, or gingerbread.
If you have time, here are some driving itineraries we recommend. The first is a loop of about 170 km that will allow you to discover the most famous villages of the Wine Route. Start in Colmar, then head to Ribeauvillé through the Munster valley. Then pass through Riquewihr and Kaysersberg before returning to Colmar through the Kaysersberg valley. If you have more time, continue to the village of Thann, located to the north of the Wine Route. For a more peaceful trip, opt for the small loop of 100 km between Colmar and Ribeauvillé. Finally, if you wish to take a day trip, head to Eguisheim, a charming little village a few kilometers south of Colmar.
The Wine Route in Alsace is a 170-kilometer route along the road that connects the towns of Obernai and Thann. This picturesque road offers a beautiful view of the vineyards and the typical villages of the region. It is an opportunity to discover the best wines of Alsace and taste local specialties in the numerous restaurants and cafes along the route.
