Your first overnight is in Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace (now officially called Grand Est region), in northeastern France. You can arrive at Strasbourg airport or by other means of transportation.

Strasbourg is one of the most wonderful historic cities in France, abundant in heritage sites worth exploring. The town center (Grande-Île and Neustadt) is even inscribed in 1988 on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is a testimony of a unique blend of French and Germanic influences on one hand, and a characteristic example of a European Rhineland city on the other. You can dedicate a good portion of the day to sightseeing and soaking in the unique atmosphere. Take a short train ride to Obernai where your overnight will be.

Obernai will gently guide you to the world of vineyards and wine culture on this section of the independent walking tour. You will pass by the beautiful Hohenburg Abbey, perched on Mont Sainte-Odile, a peak dedicated to the patron saint of the Alsace region. Another highlight of today’s route and a fascinating heritage site is the Château du Landsberg. Overnight will be in the village of Andlau.

Take the time to contemplate the authentic village of Andlau established in service of the Andlau Abbey in the IX century. It is most known for its former collegiate church, now the parish church, Saints-Pierre-et-Paul. There are two castles in the immediate vicinity that contribute to the self-guided walking experience - the Château d’Andlau and the Château de Spesbourg. The landscape on your way to Châtenois is filled with vineyards, castles perched on top of hills and romantic ruins.

Châtenois is a city of Celtic origin full of heritage sites to explore. Today’s independent hiking trail takes you up to the magnificent Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, rebuilt in 1899 by the German Emperor Wilhelm II. Your route crosses the Schaentzel Pass (583m) and continues to the tiny village of Thannenkirchen.

Located below the Taennchel mountain (992m), Thannenkirch is interesting not only with its authentic character and simplicity but also as a scene of a thousand flowering cherry trees in spring. A rare beauty which you can admire in any of the village’s many orchards. Next, you walk to Ribeauville, Riquewhir and Kaysesberg, each deserving your time and attention. The ruins of Château du Haut-Ribeaupierre (650m), Château Saint-Ulrich (510m) and Château du Girsberg (510m) can make for a short stop on your way. The charming town of Ribeauvillé is in part surrounded by ancient walls and has many beautiful medieval houses, and two old gothic churches, of St Gregory and St Augustine. Your next stop is the romantic medieval city of Riquewhir famous for its historic architecture and wine production. It's also classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

A wonderful day of history and wine awaits as you explore the cities of Kaysersberg and Colmar. With their colorful houses, historic sites and authentic atmosphere, Kaysersberg and Colmar, just a short bus ride from one another, are among the most beautiful settlements along the Alsatian Wine Route.