Alsace: A journey to discover the most beautiful fairytale villages in France.
The Alsace region captivates visitors with the timeless beauty of Colmar, Eguisheim, and Riquewihr, which once served as inspiration for the settings of famous Disney animated films.
Located in northeastern France, nestled between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine River, Alsace is a land where French and German cultures blend beautifully. If Paris is considered the heart of France, then the ancient villages here are the soul of Alsace, where time seems to stand still on its cobblestone streets and colorful half-timbered houses.
Colmar: An architectural symphony in the heart of Alsace
Colmar is the first stop that evokes the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. Due to its history of changing sovereignty between France and Germany, the culture and life here retain a distinctive blend. Houses with German architectural styles, featuring exposed timber frames and painted in soft pastel tones, create a striking visual space.
Especially during Christmas, Colmar becomes magical with teddy bears hanging from balconies, giant candy canes, and colorful bells. Strolling through the winding old streets, visitors will come across the Collégiale Saint-Martin church or the bustling Grand Rue intersection.
One of the most striking architectural landmarks is the Maison Pfister. This house boasts a watchtower with a green conical roof, resembling a miniature castle. Its walls are adorned with frescoes depicting biblical figures and Roman emperors, transforming the building into a unique open-air art museum.
In addition, the La Petite Venise (Little Venice) area, with its bridges spanning the tranquil Lauch River reflecting the vibrant buildings, is a must-see destination. Here, visitors can enjoy mulled wine (Vin Chaud), roasted chestnuts, and fragrant Flammekueche pastries from traditional wooden stalls.
Eguisheim: The Village of Concentric Circles
Located about 6 km from Colmar, Eguisheim appears as a closed circle amidst sprawling vineyards. The unique feature of this village is its concentric circular structure, revolving around a 1,000-year-old castle at its center.
Eguisheim has been repeatedly voted the most beautiful village in France. It is closely associated with Bruno von Egisheim-Dagsburg, who later became Pope Leo IX in the 11th century. Every street corner exudes tranquility, with ancient fountains, historic wine cellars, and large stork nests on rooftops – a symbol of good fortune in Alsace.
Riquewihr: A gem and inspiration from Disney
Riquewihr is a rich destination thanks to its long-standing winemaking tradition. Located in the rain-sheltered region of the Vosges Mountains, it enjoys a dry climate ideal for growing prized grape varieties such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. The village retains the integrity of a medieval town thanks to its sturdy city walls and the imposing Dolder gate.
Along the main street, Rue du Général de Gaulle, visitors will be overwhelmed by the brightly colored houses. Traditionally, the color of the house symbolized the owner's profession: yellow for bakers, blue for shoemakers. This romantic setting became an endless source of inspiration for Disney's designers when creating the backdrop for the animated film "Beauty and the Beast".
To conclude your journey, enjoying a steaming plate of Choucroute (sautéed pickled cabbage with meat) in the cool weather will complete your exploration of Alsace. The villages here are not only tourist attractions but also lessons in preserving heritage and cherishing long-standing cultural values.