The Alsace Route du Vin

Day 1:

Arrival at Strasbourg airport. Transfer by minibus or taxi to our base hotel in Obernai.

Day 2:

Obernai. After breakfast we personally equip you with your bicycle ensuring a perfect fit for everyone. The day is then yours to explore Obernai and the surrounding countryside. Obernai's cobbled market square is framed by ancient timbered buildings painted vibrant colours in typical Alsatian style. Narrow streets radiate from the square demanding to be explored. Beyond the town, pretty lanes weave their way through vineyards and fields of sunflowers. A gentle excursion by bicycle to Rosheim; whose main street features some of the oldest buildings in the Alsace and, Ottrott; producer of some of the regions finest red wines, will help build an appetite for a meal in one of Obernai's excellent restaurants.

Day 3:

Obernai to Dieffenthal. Following the Alsace Route du Vin, today's ride hugs the lower slopes of the Vosges, skipping between sundrenched vineyards and picturesque villages. Highlights include Andlau; a flower decked village nestling in an emerald green valley and, Dambach la Ville; a grand cru village decorated with blooming vintner's carts. 18 miles.

Day 4:

Dieffenthal. Perched high above the valley on the eastern edge of the Vosges sits Château du Haut Koenigsbourg. The castle's origins date to 1114 and, though destroyed twice over the centuries, the current magnificent structure is the result of a painstaking and precise reconstruction early in the 20th century. Determined cyclists may wish to conquer the hill, however, a relaxing excursion by bus is also possible. In the valley below, just an amble from Diefenthal, lies Sélestat, the 'intellectual centre of Alsace' during the Renaissance. This interesting town possesses an exceptional library, housing a collection of some of the earliest printed books.

Day 5:

Dieffenthal to Kaysersberg. Today's route is crammed full with fantastic highlights; revered vineyards and enchanting medieval villages are linked by idyllic lanes and tracks meandering through the ripening grapes. Most famous are the neighbouring villages Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr. Thriving and opulent, the brightly painted wood framed houses lining the cobbled streets are clad with geranium-filled window boxes. Wine is everywhere and there are plenty of opportunities to sample. 21 Miles.

Day 6:

Kaysersberg. The proud birthplace of Nobel prize winner Albert Schweitzer, Kayersberg (meaning Emperor’s Mountain), earned its title due to its strategic position during Roman times. Indeed several emperors have overseen the town's fortification and development, leaving an impressive legacy of historic buildings. We suggest a pleasant loop to nearby Beblenheim, a wine village overflowing with Alsation character.

Day 7:

Kaysersberg to Colmar. The tour loops south crisscrossing the Alsace Wine Route, passing numerous wineries and sleepy villages. Turkheim, which adorns many a postcard, is swiftly followed by Eguisheim, equally endowed with enchanting half timbered houses. At Rouffach, a town whose grand square is dominated by a majestic church, the route turns north, crossing arable farmland on the way to Colmar. Wine tasting opportunities continue to abound, with sophisticated Rieslings and aromatic Gewürztraminer competing for your attention. 24 miles.

Day 8:

Colmar. Wonderfully preserved, Colmar is a riot of colour. Bold hues are splashed across the magnificent halftimbered terraces that line the streets and canals. History is everywhere; museums, churches and medieval buildings are liberally scattered throughout the largely traffic-free old town. Michelin-starred restaurants and rustic wine bars are in abundance, yielding food of the highest quality. A final excursion into the surrounding lanes will enhance your appreciation of your crowning Alsatian meal.

Day 9:

Today we say "Au Revoir". We will transfer you direct from Colmar to Strasbourg airport by train or minibus and, look forward to welcoming you back again next year.