France Tours

Alsace by Bike

All content by World Expeditions

8 days (Strasbourg)

Destinations visited: France, Strasbourg, World

  • moderate

from
USD$1,490

Wind your way through the picturesque villages and vineyards of the great wine making region of Alsace

One of the most picturesque regions of France, Alsace is also one of the most cycle friendly. Designated bike paths and quiet country back roads provide a perfect passage along the Rhine passing Hansel and Gretel style houses overlooked by imposing medieval castles. There is plenty of opportunity to explore the cobblestone streets of quaint villages and marvel at the impressive Romanesque and Baroque churches. Gastronomic delights are plentiful in this corner of France and we will sample some of Alsace's finest produce as we travel through undulating farmland, orchards and vineyards. The unusual and stunning 'balloons' or round topped hills provide beautiful vistas of the Alsatian region. This itinerary soaks up the relaxed and jovial atmosphere of what can only be described as a wine-lovers' wonderland.

Highlights

  • Cycling through the heart of the Alsatian vineyards
  • Exploring the authentic villages which are full of historical intrigue
  • Experiencing the timelessness of the Vosges landscape
  • Enjoying the culinary specialties and sampling some of the many excellent wines in local ‘caves’

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Strasbourg

Arrive in the University and port town of Strasbourg and settle into the hotel. There is free time to explore the town. Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace and home to some great museums which are worth visiting. The old city is dominated by the Cathedral made out of pink sandstone from the Vosges. There are many interesting narrow streets where you can find some interesting churches, restaurants and shops and the city has a number of covered bridges which cross the Ill River.

Day 2 Cycle to Sand, Hutenheim or Sermersheim along the Rhône-Rhine canal (29/32/37km)

From Strasbourg you cycle along the Rhône-Rhine canal which will lead you to its very pretty cycle track into the heart of the Grand Ried, a vast wetland area. The small town of Sand is our destination this evening.

Day 3 Cycle to Colmar via Ebersmunster (69, 66 or 62km)

This morning you continue the cycle through the landscapes and villages of the Alsatian Ried which is rich in aquatic flora and fauna. You will have time to visit the very beautiful Baroque church at Ebersmunster before finally arriving into Colmar. Situated in the heart of the Alsace Plain, Colmar is close to the foothills of the Vosges. The old town is worth exploring with narrow cobbled streets, flanked on either side by sixteenth and seventeenth century half-timbered houses. Colmar is the birthplace of F.A. Bartholdi famous for the Statue of Liberty of New-York (1866).

Day 4 To Ottmarsheim (50km)

Passing through sleepy and flower-bedecked villages you reach Ottmarsheim and it is well worth visiting the Romanesque church located here. It was built in the town centre as a replica to the basilica of Aachen and dates from the 12th century.

Day 5 Cycle to Guebwiller in the foothills of the Vosges (36km)

Our cycle route takes us along the banks of the Rhine and the villages of the Sundgau to Guebwiller which nestles in the foothills of the Vosges. No doubt you will have the time to go as far as Murbach and visit the remains of its abbey.

Day 6 Cycle to Riquewhir (46km)

At the foot of the Vosges nestles the winemaking villages responsible for the reputation of the Alsatian Grand Crus; Eguisheim, Turckheim and Kaysersberg. Our route takes us past these villages with opportunities to sample wines, before reaching the Middle Ages town of Riquewhir and our hotel.

Day 7 To Obernai (47 km)

Along the wine route you will discover the villages of Boersch, Barr, Andlau and its abbey, Bergheim Ribeauvillé, Hunawihr. More wine sampling is the theme of the day interspersed with some great cycling in the shadow of the Vosges.

Day 8 To Strasbourg via Avolsheim (37 km), trip concludes

Country roads and cycle tracks will take you from Rosheim (11th century Romanesque church) to Avolsheim. From there, along the cycle track on the banks of the Bruche canal, you will reach the capital of Europe and the ending point of our cycle journey.

Additional Information

Inclusions

  • 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners (does not include drinks) – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, occasionally eggs and meats, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses which may include some regional specialties
  • 4 nights accommodation in 2 star and 3 nights in 3 star hotels on a twinshare basis. All rooms have private facilities.
  • Transfer of luggage between hotels
  • 21 speed bike equipped with luggage carrier, helmet (on request), rear panniers, pump, anti-theft device and repair kit Upgrade to 7 speed bike with pedal brake option available. Supplement applies.
  • Road book
  • Map and travel documentation
Alsace by Bike

Summary

  • HOTELS

Trip Main Activities

  • SELF GUIDED CYCLING

Group Size Min

Group Size Max

Accommodation Summary

Equipment Required

Cycle helmet (provided locally on request), wet weather gear, sunscreen, jogging shoes and sun hat. A comprehensive gear list is included in the pre-departure information given to you on booking.

What You Carry

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