Alsace in summer – hot, overpriced and way too many people here. It almost feels like an emigration of nations. The first time we came here was two years ago, also in summer. So why do we do this to ourselves again?
Because it’s so beautiful and the atmosphere is fantastic. Because we wanted to explore two more villages and come back to our favourite Alsace city Colmar. Because we love French gourmet food and the wines and because we can buy them cheaper in France. And because we love the mixture of France with a little bit of Germany.
We spent an amazing, romantic and culinary valuable weekend in the vineyards. Alsace is not only famous for good wine; it’s a place where you can eat really well.
How to get along in Alsace?
We’re convinced, by car. There are car parks everywhere and they’re not expensive in our opinion. A one day ticket at a public car parking in Kaysersberg for example, costs 3€ and it’s close to the Old Town. In my opinion, this is very reasonable.
Most accommodations offer car parking next or near to it. Except staying in the middle of ‘La Petite Venise’ in Colmar, of course.
We’re not informed about public transportation. Of course, you can reach Strasbourg and Colmar with the train and there are also busses. But they probably won’t make stops in the vineyards whenever you want.
Notice: Alsace is best with your own car.
The romantic villages and cities of Alsace
As mentioned before, we were in Alsace two years ago and visited Riquewihr and Kientzheim and the cities Colmar and Strasbourg.
Alsace is a pleasure for everyone but especially for couples. Fairytale, middle aged timbered villages with delicious food and wine and a great atmosphere. The Alsace is the perfect place if you just want to relax.
This time we visited Eguisheim and Kayserberg. My personal favourite is Eguisheim. Probably because it was less crowded. And probably it won’t be like this for long.
We fell in love with Colmar two years ago and knew we had to return. Before we headed back to Frankfurt, we made a short visit here.
Romance overload – ‘Hotel Le Mandelberg’ and restaurant ‘La Table’ in Mittelwihr
I start with the Hotel Le Mandelberg. It does its name justice and is located directly at the vineyard Mandelberg (almond mountain). Furthermore, it’s perfectly located to visit the surrounding villages of the region, has a car park and looks adorable from the outside. Our rooms were clean and comfy with a great view of the vineyards. The ladies at the reception were really friendly. If you stay longer, they even have a Spa area.
Everyone who stays in Mittelwihr will enjoy dinner at the La Table. It’s recommended by Michelin and we met many of the hotel guests here dining. The dishes were delicious, a pleasure for your eyes and stomach. Additionally, they serve exquisite regional wines and the service is outstanding. It’s worth every penny here.
When in Alsace, you should go out eating at least once. It would be a great pity if not. We can totally recommend the Hotel and the restaurant.
Mittelwihr as a village is not so interesting. For a walk in the vineyards, it’s perfect. After dinner, we made a little walk to watch the Perseids. As if it was not enough to have a fabulous summer day, a fantastic dinner and a beautiful walk through the vineyards, we could watch some falling stars as the cherry on top.
Maybe now you can imagine why we’re so in love with the Alsace and why our time there always seems like a dream. Alsace is perfect as a romantic getaway for two. But also for everyone else.
Eguisheim
Our Alsace journey this year started in Eguisheim. This village immediately made it to the top of my favourite list with its many colourful timbered houses. If you’re not able to take pretty pictures here, I don’t know how and where. This village makes it really easy for all of us.
We loved the many wine tastings here which made us spent way too much money here. You can taste for free and buy whatever you like.
It’s worth it as the Cremant d’Alsace rosé is much cheaper here than in Frankfurt’s wine stores.
Kaysersberg
Kayserberg comes really close to Eguisheim when as regards prettiness. The river Weiss flows in the middle of the village and fits perfect to the surrounding. While you find wine tastings everywhere in Eguisheim, Kayserberg offers more cafés. Both places have their advantages and disadvantages.
Colmar
‘La Petite Venise’ in Colmar is totally overcrowded in summer and of course, for a reason. The Old Town is perfect and the food is delicious. Before we returned to Frankfurt, we decided to indulge a little bit in some tasty Tarte Flambée and a glass of Cremant.
We just can’t get enough of Colmar and will return anytime again.
As we already wrote something on Colmar: here is the post!
Have you already been to the Alsace? If so, which was your favourite village or city?