The Alsatian wine route is one of the most beautiful and loved by wine lovers around the world. In fact, the Alsace wine region is one of the most important in France, and since 2015 it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Traveling along the wine route by bicycle is a unique and unforgettable experience. You will find yourself pedaling through picturesque medieval villages, rolling vineyards, and charming countryside landscapes. The wine route passes through 170 villages and is about 170 km long, so it is suitable for cyclists of all levels.

The best time to travel along the Alsatian wine route is from May to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The route can be divided into several stages, each offering its own unique charm and opportunities to taste the local wines.

Stage 1: Marlenheim to Molsheim

The first stage begins in Marlenheim, the northernmost part of the wine route. This 21 km stage is easy and suitable for families and beginners. Along the way, you will pass through several wine villages such as Wangen, Eichhoffen, and Traenheim. You can stop at the many wine cellars to taste local wines and learn about the wine-making process.

Stage 2: Molsheim to Barr

The second stage is 23 km long and continues south. You will pass through the charming village of Andlau and the famous wine village of Itterswiller. The scenery is spectacular, with views of the Vosges Mountains and the vineyards below. This stage is slightly more challenging but still suitable for cyclists of average fitness.

Stage 3: Barr to Sélestat

The third stage is 25 km long and takes you through the heart of Alsace wine country. You will pass through the renowned wine village of Dambach-la-Ville and continue to Sélestat, a charming medieval town. Along the way, you can stop at the many wine villages and taste the famous Alsatian wines such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Noir.

Stage 4: Sélestat to Bergheim

The fourth stage is 21 km long and continues through beautiful vineyards and small villages. You will pass through Scherwiller and stop at Bergheim, a fortified village that is one of the most picturesque on the wine route. The scenery is beautiful and the stage is suitable for cyclists of average fitness.

Stage 5: Bergheim to Ribeauvillé

The fifth stage is 18 km long and leads to one of the most charming villages on the wine route. Ribeauvillé is famous for its three medieval castles and its charming medieval town center. This stage is easy and offers beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards.

Stage 6: Ribeauvillé to Riquewihr

The sixth stage is 12 km long and is one of the shortest and most picturesque. Riquewihr is a picture-perfect medieval village with charming half-timbered houses. The scenery is spectacular and the stage is easy and suitable for all cyclists.

Stage 7: Riquewihr to Kientzheim and Kaysersberg

The seventh stage is 19 km long and takes you through several small wine villages. You will pass through Kientzheim and continue to Kaysersberg, a charming village with a castle and a beautiful medieval town center. The scenery is beautiful and the stage is suitable for cyclists of average fitness.

Stage 8: Kaysersberg to Turckheim

The eighth stage is 15 km long and continues through picturesque vineyards. You will pass through the charming village of Ammerschwihr and arrive at Turckheim, another beautiful medieval village. The stage is easy and offers lovely views.

Stage 9: Turckheim to Colmar

The ninth stage is 16 km long and leads to Colmar, one of the most beautiful medieval towns in France. Colmar is famous for its charming old town, its colorful buildings, and its beautiful canals. This is a great place to spend a night and explore the city.

Stage 10: Colmar to Eguisheim

The tenth stage is 16 km long and leads to the charming village of Eguisheim. Eguisheim is known for its circular medieval village design, with concentric rings of charming buildings. This stage is easy and offers beautiful views of the vineyards.

Stage 11: Eguisheim to Voegtlinshoffen and beyond

The final stage continues through more charming wine villages such as Voegtlinshoffen, Pfaffenheim, and finally Thann, where the wine route ends. This stage is slightly more challenging but offers beautiful views and the opportunity to taste wines from different regions of Alsace.

Conclusion

The Alsatian wine route by bicycle is a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you are a wine lover, a cycling enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful vacation, the Alsatian wine route has something to offer everyone. So saddle up and start your journey through the beautiful wine region of Alsace!