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The first time in the area, we headed out early, around 8:30 AM, paying cash for the room. As breakfast is not included in French hotels, we skipped it totally, and promised ourselves that we would stop for coffee on the way.


Heading almost due east, we drove to Molsheim, a small town about 30 kilometers east of Strausbourg, and the start of the Route du vin or wine route. Finally, after two hours of our drive across France to Molsheim, we came to a small town named Dabu on top of a mountain. There, at last, we were able to procure pastries for breakfast, but, alas, no coffee.

 

Around 11:00 we arrived in Molsheim, where we started the Route du vin. This series of roads winds madly through amazingly quaint towns; each of which was full of ½ timbered houses, towering town gates, and beautiful churches. Not content with only visiting these towns, the route alternated each town with a barrage of vineyards and orchards. The rain for a change seemed to be fighting a loosing battle, and we at long last popped the top on the car, enjoying the scenery, company, and fleeting sunshine to the best of our ability.


Favorite stops here are the towns of Ribeauville, Riquewihr, and Keyserberg, and the Castle of Haut Königsberg shouldn’t be missed.

route du vin, alsace, France
 

Meandering over 100 miles from Marlenheim to Thann, this picturesque wine route is a virtual open air museum of medieval timber framed houses, cobblestone streets, castles, and town towers. Romantically decorated Winestubs offer traditional meals such as choucroute garnie accompanied by the excellent local wines.


Towns along the Route du vin Alsace


1) Molsheim - Renaissance buildings, riesling vineyards, and a Buggatti museum.


2) Obernai - The Kapellturm (main town tower) here dates from the 13th century.


3) Dambach-la-ville - This medieval town is renown for its grand cru Frankstein.


4) Ribeauville - Riesling flows free here on the first Sunday in September, from a fountain spouting free wine.


5)Riquewihr - Perhaps one of France's most visited towns, this is a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture.


6) Turckheim - Known for its Brand wine.


7)Eguisheim - Two different grand crus are produced here, the Eichberg, and the Pfersigberg