dossier
Alsace Wine Trail
ALSACE WINE TRAIL | WHERE YOU STAY
Hotel des 2 Clefs ***
Turckheim Days 1+8
The Hôtel des Deux Clefs is a splendid, romantic 15th-century building, a pure product of the Alsace renaissance. Situated in the medieval town of Turckheim, it has been classified as a "Monument Historique". All rooms include satellite TV and WiFi internet connection with breakfast served in the wood-panelled dining room with stained glass windows.
Day 1 Arrive at Turckheim
Here you stay in a friendly Alsatian hotel in the heart of the tiny village. With so many restaurants on your doorstep, we've left you free to choose where to dine this evening.
Day 2 Turckheim to Kaysersberg 10km/6mi/3hr or 17km/10mi/5hr
We give you a lift to Turckheim; time to explore its Renaissance church and medieval gate where storks still nest. Your walk through the vines takes you past flower-filled Niedermorschwir and Ammerschwihr where you can taste the local vintage, Kaefferkopf, in cozy wine cellars. It’s then on to the fortified town of Kaysersberg and our hotel on a quiet cobbled street in the old town.
Hotel Constantin ***
Kayersberg Days 2+3
In the heart of the old historic town of Kaysersberg, Hôtel Constantin welcomes you to a beautiful traditional Alsatian wine grower's house, with comfortable rooms. An ideal base for walking and exploring the vineyards.
Day 3 At Kaysersberg
In the morning why not stroll up to the ruins of the medieval castle for a bird’s eye view over Kaysersberg’s half-timbered houses decked with geraniums along the River Weiss? Afterwards, perhaps follow a valley trail to Kientzheim or visit Colmar (local bus, 25 mins), the “Venice of Alsace” and a honeycomb of pretty canals and gorgeous pastel-colored houses.
Day 4 Kaysersberg to Riquewihr 10km/6mi/3.5hr
A gentle climb through oak and beech forest to Chapelle St Alexis hidden in the woods - great auberge for lunch. Your route then descends in and out of pine forest and before long, you get your first glimpses of the showcase of Renaissance houses that earn Riquewihr its nickname – Pearl of the Vineyards.
Hotel à l’Oriel ***
Riquewihr Days 4+5
Hôtel à l’Oriel is located right in the centre of Riquewihr, the building is centered around a central courtyard and is very rustic in style, with the exterior of the hotel painted a cheerful yellow with wooden timbered balconies burgeoning with flowers. The bedrooms, many with wooden beamed ceilings, are decorated with bright patchwork quilts and solid wooden furniture.
Further details on the hotel website.
Day 5 At Riquewihr
The town of Riquewihr is so enchanting it has been declared an historic monument in its entirety. You’ll be bewitched by its cobbled alleys, galleried courtyards, fountains, and colorful signboards.
Day 6 Riquewihr to Bergheim 10km/6mi/3hr or 17km/10mi/5hr
You pass through the heart of medieval Alsace via the Riesling vineyards nestling at the foot of the mountains. Hunawihr has a fortified church and stork sanctuary - you’ll also find otters, butterflies and orchids in the reserve there. Three ruined castles of the once powerful counts of Ribeaupierre look down as you walk on through the vines to Bergheim.
Hotel Chez Norbert ***
Bergheim Days 6+7
With only 12 rooms, this hotel has the feel of a country house. Each of the rooms are comfortable, and nicely presented with a TV, mini bar & telephone.
Day 7 At Bergheim
This colorful and ancient market town was a medieval refuge where criminals on the run were safe from persecution - unless they were thought to be witches! There are lots of beautiful timber-framed houses and a decorated fountain in the old square. Be sure to take the short taxi ride to the amazing Haut Koenigsbourg Castle - it’s a gentle downhill walk back!
Day 8 Bergheim to Turckheim 11km/7mi/3.5hr
You continue parallel to the Route du Vin to a poignant WW2 German military cemetery - panoramic views over to the famous restored castle at Haut-Kœnigsbourg. At St Hippolyte there’s a Gothic church and fountain, while the ruined court of medieval Kintzheim Castle is the setting for spectacular flying displays by birds of prey including eagles and vultures. We give you a lift to Turckheim.
Day 9 Leave Turckheim
WALKING DETAILS
Gentle walking, mainly through vineyards, woodland and heavily scented pine forests. No particularly challenging sections; however some paths are stony so protective footwear is advised.
ALSACE WINE TRAIL | WHERE YOU STAY
For extra nights we recommend Chatenois or Strasbourg.