Eguisheim, the heart of the Alsatian Wine Route
The Alsace wine road travels between Marlenheim near Strasbourg and Thann near Mulhouse and is a very popular and attractive way to discover this eastern region of France whilst learning and enjoying the food and wine produced here. The route covers a very scenic area between the eastern edge of the Vosges Mountains and the River Rhine. Driving through traditional and colouful villages, this is one of the smaller wine producing regions of France but it has some incredible scenery and of course produces some very fine tasting wines. The route is well signposted and at each place of particular interest there are foothpaths taking you through the vineyards to discover the cellars and diverse landscapes of each winery. Hire a bike or travel on foot into the countryside with a picnic, or stop at one of the inns or wineries for ‘dejeuner’ followed later in the afternoon by a tasting session, these are days to relax and enjoy the slow pace of life and the beautiful French countryside.
Passing through 27 very important and beautiful villages gives you the opportunity to stop on your travels to try over 50 of the local wines classified as ‘grand cru’ from the Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sylvaner, Muscat and Gewürztraminer grape varieties. On top of the draw of wine and vineyards the route travels through picturesque villages with half timbered buildings,flowered balconies and medieval castles. One of the best examples of these traditional communities is the epicentre of the wine making region, the village of Eguisheim.
Eguisheim dates back to the Middle Ages which is evident from the narrow winding streets, its half timbered buildings and the remains of the once fortified castle. As far back as the 4th century the area became famous for its wine which was found on the tables of royalty in both England and Holland. Eguisheim is also popular because all varities of Alsatian grapes are grown here so if you are short on time or you would rather not travel the whole 100 miles, it is possible to experience all the regions wines in one location.
Eguisheim Hotels
If you are staying here, the hotels in eguisheim come in a great many shapes and sizes in a mixture of French and German styles. Two hotels which are considered to be excellent value for visitors on the wine route are the Hostellerie Des Comtes Eguisheim and the Hotel Saint Hubert Eguisheim.
Hostellerie Des Comtes Eguisheim is proud of its intimate atmosphere and gastronomic delights. The 14 non smoking guest rooms are clean and bright and feature TV, telephone, hairdryer and Internet access for visitors who like to keep in touch.
Hotel Saint Hubert Eguisheim is a modern hotel situated amongst the vineyards with striking views of the Black Forest. With just 15 en suite guest rooms the hotel offers is guest’s personal service and facilities such as TV, telephone and mini bar heated indoor swimming pool and sauna.
The stunning Alsace wine route is a very picturesque way of discovering the beauties of the border region with Germany, and a altogether different experience to the other wine producing areas of France.
