Parc Naturel Regional des Ballons Des Vosges
Description: For outdoor types the Vosges regional park will really appeal offering lakes, rivers and conifer clad hilltops with a wide choice of outdoor activities and walks.
Location: Situated immediately to the west of Colmar.
Our recommendations: Follow the D48 south from Col de Sainte Marie and take the left turn at the Col de Bagnelles up to Le Brézouard. There is a car park and from here it is a short walk to the summit from which you can get fine views – on fine days you can even see Mont Blanc far to the south!
For the children: The Ballon d’Alsace can be approached on foot from the D465 just south of St Maurice sur Moselle. It is a reasonably short walk to the summit and the children will enjoy being able to stretch their legs without having too long a walk! And they can be rewarded with an ice cream at the restaurant when you get back to the car.
Alsace Route des Vins
Please refer to our wine section. If you’re visiting for the scenery rather than the wine, make sure to check out Riquewihr. This village has been completely spared the ravages of war and is now visited by so many tourists that stores cater for them exclusively, although it maintains its tremendous charm and medieval character.
On the Route des Vins, Kaysersberg is a pleasant city, surrounded by famous vineyards. Ribeauville has a wonderful location at the foot of the Vosges mountains and offers a wine festival in July and a traditional music festival on the first Sunday of September.
Delightful scenery and opportunities for dégustation!
Mountain Walks
On a fine day we recommend you follow the Route des Crêtes through the Vosges mountains and visit the Hohneck peak (1362m) or the Grand Ballon, Alsace’s highest peak at 1424m. The latter has a short pleasant walk from a car park to the summit.
Haut Koenigsbourg Castle
Located towards the north of the Vosges moutains this castle is dramatically situated and well worth a visit. Refer to our section on châteaux in East France for more details.
Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to East France: