Go on an adventure around Strasbourg
If you already know all the must-see places in Strasbourg, it is high time to discover the surroundings ! Hiking trails, swimming in the countryside (if the weather is good), impressive castles, charming villages, fine wines and Alsatian gastronomy ... all the ingredients are there to change your mind a little. Here are our Top things to do around Strasbourg:
Stroll through the Alsatian villages
Discover the tranquility of the small villages around Strasbourg, many of which are among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”. All have in common charming cobbled streets and colorful half-timbered houses dating from the Middle Ages, adorned with flowers. Among the most famous are Eguisheim, Barr, Riquewihr and Obernai. In the latter you will find many local craft shops, like La Petite Manufacture des Rêves. Once the door is pushed, welcome to a dreamlike world where each object has a story that the owners will take pleasure in telling you.
Village d’Eguisheim
Discover the Alsace Ecomuseum
A surprising visit to do around Strasbourg? Go for a walk in the Alsace Ecomuseum. This atypical place is designed as an open-air village in which you can evolve at your leisure, in the middle of old Alsatian houses saved from destruction. This large living museum will immerse you in the atmosphere and traditions of Alsace at the start of the 20th century. You will be able to see craftsmen at work, exhibitions on various trades, collectibles and participate in various workshops. The Ecomuseum also lives to the rhythm of traditional festivals: for example Easter or Christmas are the occasion for performances and decorations of all beauties.
Visiting fortified castles
Around Strasbourg are scattered many castles dating from medieval times. Besides the many ruins, several of them were beautifully restored. The must-see is the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg which is well worth a visit. Everything is there to get in the mood : drawbridge, fortress, keep, towers, collection of weapons, etc. Perched at an altitude of 757 meters, it offers an extraordinary view on the plain of Alsace, the Vosges and the Black Forest. Others can also be the subject of a day trip, such as the Château du Haut-Barr or the Château du Hohlandsbourg.
Haut-Koenigsbourg castle
Take a hike in the Vosges
Want to stretch your legs around Strasbourg? There are many possibilities for hikes or simple walks. Whether in the middle of the vines or in the Vosges forests, there is no shortage of hiking trails and are signposted by the Club Vosgien. These trails can be an opportunity to see ruined castles, a lake or even sumptuous waterfalls. In summer you can plan to leave for several days: farm inns can accommodate walkers for the night and provide them with delicious typical meals, made with farm products.
Explore the Alsace Wine Route
A must to do around Strasbourg! The Alsace Wine Route, the oldest in France, will make you discover the landscapes of the Vosges mountains, between vineyards and hillsides. It is also an opportunity to visit many villages in bloom, each more charming than the next. Between two tastings, you can enjoy sensational panoramas, one of the most beautiful is that offered by the Obernai National Memorial. Athletes can cycle the Wine Route : an experience that will allow you to fully enjoy nature. The winegrowers will be delighted to welcome you to share their passion with you over a drink. However, remember to make an appointment, it is safer.
Alsace Wine Route
Bathing around Strasbourg
The sea is far from Alsace, but if the beautiful days are here and do you dream of dipping, you will have a lot of choice! The most popular is the Neubiltz-Reichsett lake. With its large grassy beaches, it is the perfect place for a picnic with friends or family between two swims. If you don't have a car, the Baggersee lake is a must-see around Strasbourg since it is easily accessible by tram (allow a 10-minute walk from the Baggersee stop). All add to it the mountain lakes and rivers of the Vosges, as well as the developed gravel pits in the region.
Ready to discover all these wonders around Strasbourg?
Fancy mountains, sporting walks, a walk in a beautiful village or just a refreshing splash? Alsace will make all your wishes come true! And if you have an adventurous soul, do not hesitate to go off the beaten track to get a change of scenery and update other nuggets around Strasbourg. And you, what are your favorites in the region? Share them in the comments!
