Alsace cycling travel is a unique experience as you explore a part of the region that is nestled between the beautiful Vosges mountains in France and the borders of Germany and Switzerland, Alsace is a region rich in tradition. Alsace is a combination of cultures and therefore charm. The famous Route du Vin (wine route) encompasses at least 100 wine producing villages between Strasbourg and Colmar, creating some of France's best wines. Also also offers gourmet cuisine and has more Michelin star restaurants than any other region. Experience gastronomy in refined and traditional dishes like the famous baeckeofe. The beauty of its traditional architecture will surprise you with village after village of pretty half timbered houses decked with brilliantly colored flowers. Our bicycle tour in Alsace is very flexible, being self-guided, this bike tour can start any Sunday you wish, April-October.
Alsace Travel Info
Alsace France: After the partitioned empire of Charlemagne in 817 and 843 was organized, Alsace became part of Lotharingia. In 925, Alsace became part of the German duchy of Alemannia and remained German for 800 years. In 1648, with the " Thirty Years War", Alsace was placed under the French sovereignty. After the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), Alsace and Lorraine were incorporated into the German Empire which was when the term Alsace-Lorraine was used for the first time. In 1919, after World War I, Alsace-Lorraine were returned to France by the terms of the Treaty of Versailles. Finally, during World War II, the territory was ceded to Germany but France regained it after Germany's defeat in 1945. What a story!!
In Alsace and in Lorraine, the French language is dominant. In Alsace, a German dialect called Alsatian, is spoken but its use is decreasing. Because of the past, the culture of this region contains both French and German elements which gives a unique place to visit.
L'Alsace
Spread on the plain of the Rhine and on the oriental side of the Vosges mountain range, Alsace offers diversified landscapes. Some old cities include: Obernai, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Colmar. Many nearby vineyards are conserved with their history of cygogne and their sculpted houses, as well as their ancient image/ spirit.
Lorraine
Occidental part of the ancient Lotharingie which has gave the name of Lorraine. Lorraine include a plateau with vast horizons, with an subterran rich in charcoal and salt. More toward the west, the coast of the Meuse and the Moselle frame plateaus and valleys rich in iron.
Les Vosges
Shared between Lorraine (west) and Alsace (east), les Vosges are an old mountain range covered with pines and beech forests. It is a region with numerous lakes testifying to the presence of ancient glaciers. Les Vosges are also rich in thermal stations with such famous names such as Vittel, Plombieres, and Contrexville.
What good "stuff' can you eat?
Cheese specialty: The Munster and the Gerome
Yes, the Munster smells very strong...but is so tasty!!! Quiche Lorraine ( salted pie with ham, cream and eggs) So good!!!
What about a drink?
Alsatian white wines have a distinctive flavor due to the continental climate. There are white wines of quality especially: Riesling, Traminer, Riquewihr.... |
