Alsace: Wine Route, culture & traditions
€1020
per person
Explore the exquisite blend of German and French cultures which form the distinctive character of Alsace on this enchanting 8-day self-guided walking adventure along the celebrated Wine Route between Colmar and Strasbourg. Beginning in Barr and concluding in medieval Turckheim, this independent hiking journey immerses you in a landscape of sun-drenched vineyards and storybook villages like Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé, all lined with colorful half-timbered houses. You will enjoy a perfectly relaxed rhythm thanks to carefully planned two-night stays, offering ample time for deep exploration or simply savoring local life, with the option to shorten the day hikes. Beyond the walking trail, indulge your senses by sampling world-class Gewürztraminer in welcoming winstubs and treating yourself to authentic Alsatian specialties like crispy tarte flambée. Discover iconic landmarks, including the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, and keep an eye out for the charming white storks nesting high above the cobblestone streets. This is your chance to trade the rush of guided hiking tours for the true essence of old-world European discovery, all at your own unforgettable pace. *When planning your journey you may consider matching your travel dates with the local markets: Barr: Saturday morning; Ribeauville: Saturday morning; Turckheim: Friday morning; Riquewihr: Friday morning; Kaysersberg: Monday morning.
Level 1/2
-
Destination
-
Duration8 (5) Days I Level: 1/2 (of 5)
-
What is includedEn-suite accommodation in 3* hotels (check the Rates&Remarks tab for details), incl. breakfast (options for hotel upgrades are possible too; check details with us); People transfers as per itinerary on days 3 and 7; Luggage transfers (1 piece, up to 20kg per person); Detailed roadbook and maps, incl. GPS tracks; Emergency hotline;
-
What is not includedDrinks, other meals and transfers
-
Best periodApril, May, June, July, August, September, October
FROM OUR GALLERY
Self-guided walking and inn to inn hiking tours in Alsace, France
1
Day 1: Arrival in Alsace: discover the wine village of Barr
Barr is your charming gateway to this self-guided walking tour and the Alsace Wine Route, just a swift 40min train journey from Strasbourg. Settle into this cozy wine town, nestled perfectly among rolling hills and endless vineyards. We can arrange an optional pre-tour night and a seamless transfer from Strasbourg to ensure your arrival is completely stress-free (check details with us). Take a relaxing first walk through the town's charming streets, admiring the classic half-timbered houses, before ending your day with a delicious traditional Alsatian dinner and exquisite local wine—the perfect, authentic start to your hiking adventure. *Easiest arrival via Strasbourg-Entzheim Airport or Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport (60km (2hrs journey by public transport) from Strasbourg). Other possible airports: Paris Orly and Paris Charles De Gaulle (490km from Strasbourg), Basel-Mulhouse (130km from Strasbourg) or Frankfurt (210km from Strasbourg).
2
Day 2: Barr - Mont St. Odile (circular trail) - Barr (15km; 5hrs; +740m/-740m)
Today, your self-guided walking journey begins with a magnificent scenic loop hike to the revered Mont Sainte-Odile, Alsace's most cherished spiritual peak. Ascend along shaded forest ridges to discover the historic abbey, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the Alsatian plain. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the tranquil chapel complex, wander a section of the mysterious Pagan Wall, and visit the haunting rock-carved Chapels of Tears and Angels. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and sweeping vistas, follow the forest trails down to Barr, ready to celebrate your first successful day by savoring a glass of crisp Riesling paired with a classic, savory tarte flambée.
3
Day 3: Barr - Andlau - Itterswiller - Sainte Hippolyte (13km; 4hrs; +480m/-480m or shorter option of 8km, 2,30hrs, +300m/-300m)
Set off today on a captivating hike through the heart of classic Alsatian wine country, tracing scenic walking paths that wind through endless, sun-drenched vineyards. Take time to pause in Andlau, a postcard-perfect village celebrated for its magnificent Romanesque abbey, charming half-timbered houses, and highly acclaimed Riesling. Continue your independent walking tour ascending to the beautiful hilltop village of Itterswiller, which rewards you with flower-adorned streets and spectacular panoramic views across the valley. From Itterswiller a quick, comfortable transfer whisks you away to Saint-Hippolyte, your welcoming base for the next two restful nights. *The shorter hiking option is from Barr to Andlau; the pick up from Andlau for Sainte Hippolyte needs to be pre-booked in advance and it is subject to availability (extra charge may apply: appr. 20 EUR)!
4
Day 4: Sainte Hippolyte - Château Haut Koenigsbourg (circular trail) - Sainte Hippolyte (12km; 4hrs; +530m/-530m)
Lace up for an exhilarating circular walk today, ascending through peaceful forest hiking trails to the magnificent Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, a beautifully restored medieval fortress dramatically perched high above the valley. Spend time exploring its imposing grand halls, towers, and ramparts, and be sure to capture the sweeping panoramic views that stretch from the Vosges Mountains to the distant Black Forest (note that you should check opening times as the entrance fee is not included!). Following your castle exploration, enjoy a tranquil descent along woodland paths, bringing you back to the comfort of Saint-Hippolyte, or choose to skip the hike entirely and enjoy a relaxing, well-deserved day of leisure in the charming village.
5
Day 5: Sainte Hippolyte - Thannenkirch - The Three Castles - Ribeauville (15km; 4hrs; +680m/-680m or shorter option of 8km, 2,30hrs, +320m/-540m)
Today’s walk takes you along tranquil vineyard paths and shaded forest trails to the enchanting medieval town of Ribeauvillé, nestled at the foot of the Vosges Mountains. It is partially surrounded by ancient walls, hiding inside many beautiful medieval houses, and two old gothic churches. The self-guided walking trail takes you past the impressive ruins of the Three Castles of Ribeauvillé including the largest, Saint-Ulrich Castle, and the smaller Girsberg Castle. These medieval fortresses, perched high on a hill, once stood as guardians of the valley and now offer breathtaking panoramic views over the vineyards and town below. Eventually arrive in Ribeauvillé famed for its vibrant old town and a true highlight of the Alsace Wine Route. It's also classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Wander through its cobbled streets and settle in for a well deserved rest at a local winstub, where you can enjoy a glass of crisp Riesling paired with a warm, freshly baked bretzel — an authentic taste of Alsatian culture. *The shorter hiking option is from Thannenkirch to Ribeauville; the transfer from Sainte Hippolyte to Thannenkirch needs to be pre-booked in advance and it is subject to availability (extra charge may apply: appr. 30 EUR)!
6
Day 6: Ribeauville - Riquewihr (circular trail) - Ribeauville (15km; 4hrs; +600m/-600m + shorter option of appr. 5km)
Today presents a delightful choice: embark on an optional loop hike that leads you directly to Riquewihr, a truly picture-perfect medieval village. Recognized as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (most beautiful villages of France), Riquewihr will enchant you with its colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and exceptional wines. Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely day, simply stay and relax in Ribeauvillé. Here, you can enjoy the cozy cafés, explore local wine cellars for a tasting, or treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation at a village spa. *There is a possibility for a shorter hiking option too. You can take a public bus (68R016) from Ribeauvillé to Riquewihr, which allows you to skip the first half of the loop and walk only the second part (Riquewihr - Ribeauvillé, appr. 5km).
7
Day 7: Ribeauville - Kaysersberg - Ammerschwihr - Turckheim (14km; 4hrs; +500m/-500m or shorter option of 9km, 3hrs, +390m/-410m)
Following a smooth morning transfer to the picturesque medieval town of Kaysersberg, you will embark on your final, rewarding hike along the enchanting Alsace Wine Route. Today’s walking trail is a beautiful journey, weaving through a vibrant mosaic of sun-drenched vineyards, cool forest paths, and rolling countryside. Your self-guided hiking adventure culminates in the charming village of Turckheim, famous for its ancient fortifications, inviting cobblestone streets, and the iconic white stork nests visible on its historic rooftops. *For the shorter hiking option you can still make use of the morning transfer to Kaysersberg, explore the town, and then take a public bus (68R013) for a 15min ride to Ammerschwihr. There join the walking trail for a 9km walk to Turckheim).
8
Day 8: Departure
Service end after breakfast. Consider extending your journey with visits to the nearby towns of Colmar (a.k.a. "The Venice of France") and Strasbourg (or base in just one of them). The two towns are well-connected with a 30min train ride, which makes it easy to explore both even within one full day!
TOUR LOCATION
Price (2026)
1020 Euro per person in twin/dbl room (01-22/04; 30/10-05/11)
1070 Euro per person in twin/dbl room (23/04-29/10)
Single room & Solo Traveler supplement
Single room supplement: 480 Euro
Solo traveler supplement (incl. sgl. room supplement): 670 Euro
Tips
Daily arrivals between the beginning of April and the beginning of November. Please mind the options to shorten some of the day hikes using local taxis/public means of transportation, and also to extend your program in order to visit the highlights of Alsace - Colmar and Strasbourg.
Accommodation
Charming 3* hotels (en-suite rooms), incl. breakfast (hotels upgrade is possible; check options with us). Samples of the inns we would normally book (subject to availability), or similar category: Days 1/2: Barr - La Maison Rouge; Days 3/4: Sainte Hippolyte - La Vignette Alsace; Days 5/6: Ribeauvillé - Hotel Cheval Blanc; Day 7: Turckheim: Hotel Les Portes de la Vallée;
Why Google Reviews matter more than website-collected reviews?
We are committed to absolute transparency and exclusively use our Google Business Profile for all customer reviews. In contrast, some competitors collect reviews directly on their websites. While these self-hosted reviews can appear informative, they are vulnerable to manipulation - they can be easily modified, deleted (if too negative), or even written internally by staff (a task made simpler than ever with modern AI tools). By relying solely on the trusted, third-party platform of Google, we offer a guarantee that your feedback is genuine and completely unbiased. We have no ability to influence or alter the words of our past customers; our access is limited strictly to responding. This ensures the integrity of every review you read and builds the trust you deserve.Click below to read verified reviews:
Send an enquiry about this tour
The reservation confirmation you will get right after placing an order only confirms that your booking is received and an agent has started working on it. It doesn't mean your tour is guaranteed! Wait to hear from us with final confirmation before booking flights or making any other arrangements, related to your holiday. The dates as listed below do not correspond with real-time availability!
SCROLL DOWN FOR ALL DATES (IF YOUR DATE IS NOT OPEN FOR BOOKING, PLEASE CONTACT US!)
SCROLL DOWN FOR ALL DATES (IF YOUR DATE IS NOT OPEN FOR BOOKING, PLEASE CONTACT US!)