Alsace Wine Region: Visiting Colmar
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Alsace is a historical region in northeastern France on the Rhine River plain. You can also check out the post Alsace Wine Region: Visiting Strasbourg.
Bordering Germany and Switzerland, Colmar has alternated between German and French control over the centuries and reflects a mix of those cultures. Similar to Bordeaux, this region of France is best known for its wine typically dry, medium-bodied Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and other select grapes.
Wine is such a large part of this region that you can even find self-guided wine and cycle maps that allow you to rent a bike and stop at wineries along the route for tastings. The cellars are located in various villages and because cycling through random fields, lost for hours without tasting any wine sounds terrible! guided tours are available from Colmar, many of which visit the 4 wonders of Alsace; the villages of Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.
It is said that the villages in Alsace are what inspired Belle’s hometown in Beauty and the Beast and I’m honestly not surprised.
Walking down Colmar’s cobblestone streets you will find timbered houses with children’s rocking horses sitting on the windowsills and garden watering cans hanging from the exterior of buildings. It’s strange to think people actually live in a town where you feel like you’re strolling a Disney film set.
Petite Venise also known as “little Venice” is Colmar’s most visited and picturesque area perfect for strolling along floral-lined canals.
They were strict about not letting people inside to wait and guests were only able to enter once a table emptied. After waiting over 30 minutes which I’ve never done for a restaurant, I was finally seated. Was it worth the wait? No, the Flammekueche was mediocre as was the customer service. While I was certainly a bit disappointed since I had it bookmarked on my phone for months, I now have the experience to say that La Stub hands down has the best Flammekueche in Colmar with customer service to match. Check out their reviews here.
I’ve stayed in some pretty incredible Airbnb’s around Europe but there was something about this cozy apartment that felt like home. There’s a bedroom with a double bed as well as a pull out sofa in the living room that sleeps 2 people and a chase lounge that sleeps another. There is also a nice sized bathroom, a full kitchen, and is located in the center of Colmar and not too far from the train station which is great for day trips.
Cozy flat, Colmar historical center meublé classé
Room Type: Airbnb – Private Apartment
Rooms: 1 bed – 1 bath, kitchen, wifi, heating
Price: $40+/night
Click here to see the latest prices and check availability.