Scenery
Just as the French influence can be felt everywhere here in the Markgräfler Land, the German influence is present everywhere in Alsace. Alsatian, a mixture of German and French, is the dialect spoken by the people of Alsace, and the German element is also evident in the architecture, villages and city names.
Just as the French influence can be felt everywhere here in the Markgräfler Land, the German influence is present everywhere in Alsace. Alsatian, a mixture of German and French, is the dialect spoken by the people of Alsace, and the German element is also evident in the architecture, villages and city names.
Alsace is a beautiful area, which besides the major cities of Strasbourg, Colmar and Mulhouse has any number of small villages, towns and communities. Its scenery is distinguished by the Alsatian plateau, the characteristic agriculture and vineyards on the one hand, and on the other by a rugged charm marked by its proximity to the Vosges on the French side and the Jura on the Swiss side. Nature lovers, hikers and cyclists will find countless trails for exploring the scenery and lifestyle of Alsace. The “Petite Camargue” is a unique nature reserve.
Lifestyle
Living the life of Riley in France – this naturally also applies to Alsace. Even though the cuisine here is naturally somewhat more substantial than in the south of France. Alsace also has a reputation among the French for its good cuisine and culinary tradition, and it is probably no coincidence that it has the largest number of starred restaurants of any region in the world.
Living the life of Riley in France – this naturally also applies to Alsace. Even though the cuisine here is naturally somewhat more substantial than in the south of France. Alsace also has a reputation among the French for its good cuisine and culinary tradition, and it is probably no coincidence that it has the largest number of starred restaurants of any region in the world.
However, Alsace doesn’t only cater for gourmet tastes; most importantly, you can sample the local dishes such as Alsatian tarte flambée, Münster cheese, sauerkraut with pork knuckle, Gugelhupf (ring cake), plum tart and Alsatian apple cake. Alsatians like to wash these down with a glass of beer or a good wine such as Edelzwicker. Although the Alsatians are hard workers, they enjoy life and value time spent over meals with their family and friends. Take the time to immerse yourself in the French lifestyle during a visit to Alsace.
Sights
Although it’s the smallest French département, there is no doubt that Alsace is one of the areas offering the most variety. We think you should take the time for a trip to Strasbourg, explore the city and enjoy a traditional Alsatian meal. A visit to the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg is also recommended, especially with children; and if you can combine it with a trip to Colmar, you can admire the glorious scenery on the way.
If you prefer to spend your time in the country, we suggest a walk in the Vosges mountains or a cycle tour from here to Breisach on the German side of the Rhine, returning on the French side via Neuf-Brisach.