Alsace is a region in France that enjoys a drier climate than most of the other French regions and has the beautiful city of Strasbourg at its heart. The French national anthem was composed in Strasbourg by Rouget de l’isle and the city is famed for its regional dish sauerkraut, a pile of pickled cabbage with ham pork and sausages.
The city of Strasbourg offers a wealth of architectural history going back for hundreds of years and the best way to explore is on foot.
Cobbled streets and a mixture of medieval style buildings, coupled with upmarket shops in elegant streets gives the place an ambience all of its own.
Strasbourg cathedral is the architectural masterpiece not to be missed if visiting, and its lone tower stands some 142 metres high, delicately interwoven with sublime carvings and is a hugely impressive structure.
No less impressive is the interior which houses a masterfully designed astronomical clock showing the position of the planets and the phases of the moon, the best time to see this masterpiece in all of it’s whirring glory is at mid-day.
For the energetic it is well worth climbing the 330 steps taking you to the cathedral balcony, where a stunning vista of steep tiled roofs transports you back 400 years to medieval times.
Close by the cathedral is the now famous restaurant “ Maison Kammerzell” offering an outstanding selection of regional fish dishes which you can enjoy whilst seated in beautiful surroundings.
Take a boat trip around the Island where you can see still standing parts of the old city ramparts dating back to the 14th century and a plethora of old wooden buildings, again transporting your imagination back to the middle ages.
As you near the end of your trip the shimmering façade of the European Parliament building comes into view like a sublime ice statue with its sleek lines, in total contrast to the rest of the city.
Strasbourg is an excellent base to explore the Wine route and a visit to the villages along the route are a must see.
The area is renowned for producing quality white wines and in particular Pinot Blanc, Sylvaner and sumptuous Reisling can be tasted and bought throughout the regions wine producing villages.
Each village has it’s own unique character and it’s well worth taking the time to
Explore each one for the diversity of architecture and cultural heritage on offer in each.
Alsace is truly a jewel in the crown of France and if you are like me it will hold a spell over you and keep you returning time and time again.
