Alsace Towns & Greater Colmar, france
Attractions Guide
Introduction
In Eastern France's Alsace region just west of Colmar, you'll find many medieval fairytale-like villages and towns along the eastern edge of the Vosges Mountains. You'll also find several castles and other great attractions in the area around Colmar.
The Alsace region of France is also known for its production of excellent white wines, and within many of these small towns and villages you'll find countless great wineries.
Eguisheim, France
The nearest medieval village to Colmar is the lovely town of Eguisheim, which is located just southwest of Colmar. Along with the elegant half-timbered houses in the city's center, be sure to admire the Chateau Saint-Leon, a former castle which has been turned into a striking elaborate church.
Kayserberg-Vignoble, France
Northwest of Colmar is the colorful medieval town of Kaysersberg-Vignoble, another charming place to explore on foot. Some of the town's most scenic areas include the half-timbered houses around the Fontaine Constantin fountain, as well as the houses lining the river which you can view from the Pont Fortifie bridge. Be sure to also explore the area around the bridge to see more lovely medieval homes.
You can take a short hike from town up to the ruins of the 13th century Castle of Kaysersberg, which hosts fantastic views overlooking the town as well as a dungeon.
Riquewihr, France
Further north along the eastern edge of the Vosges Mountains is the charming medieval village of Riquewihr with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes. Be sure to explore this tiny village on foot, including the Hoher Turm tower entrance on the western end of the village.
Ribeauville, France
Just north of Riquewihr is the larger town of Ribeauville, another lovely medieval town. Some of the most scenic spots here include the walk along the town's main street Grande Rue, which runs the entire length of the old town.
Along the Grand Rue are many gorgeous colorful buildings, as well as the Tour des Bouchers clocktower which the road passes under. Near the western end of Grande Rue is a beautiful little canal.
Castles of Ribeauville
In the hills above Ribeauville are three ruined medieval castles, the most impressive being the 12th century Chateau de Saint-Ulrich, which features multiple rooms you can explore. The other two castles nearby are the 11th century Chateau du Haut-Ribeaupierre and the 13th century Chateau du Girsberg.
You can see al three castles along the same hiking trail which starts near the western edge of town. This hike is a scenic journey through the forest and takes approximately one hour round-trip. Along the trail you can take in great views over Ribeauville, and from each castle you can enjoy views over the other castles.
Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle
Further north of Colmar and Ribeuaville is a magnificent 12th century castle, the Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg, which sits atop a giant hill overlooking the expansive rural landscape below. This massive fairytale-like castle contains many incredible historic rooms including an armory, as well as beautiful medieval gardens.
Animal Parks of Kintzheim, France
Just north of the Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg is La Montagne des Singes, a woodland wildlife park that is home to over 200 Barbary macaque monkeys. The monkeys roam freely around the property, and you can interact with them if you like.
Very close by is the Eagle Park where you'll find birds such as eagles, falcons, vultures, and owls. Many of the birds put on performances with trainers throughout the day. The Eagle Park is housed in the the 12th century Chateau de Kintzheim, a partially-ruined medieval castle.
Greater Colmar Museums
Alsace Open-Air Museum
To the south of Colmar is France's largest living open-air museum, the Ecomusee d'Alsace. This massive open-air museum recreates an Alsatian village with over 70 traditional buildings representing the late 19th century to the early 20th century.
The houses and buildings in the village are very finely decorated and furnished with historical accuracy, and the village has period-appropriate actors. The village is quite charming and even hosts farms, as well as a river you can take a boat ride on.
Cite de l'Automobile Museum
Further south of Colmar in the city of Mulhouse is a giant museum of automobiles, the Cite de l'Automobile. The museum hosts over 500 vehicles, including classic cars, buggies, race cars, and the world's largest collection of Buggatis. Many of the cars in this museum's collection are both rare and prestigious.
Google Maps Attraction Lists
Save Alsace Towns & Greater Colmar Attraction Lists to your Google Maps Account:
1. Click Link above while logged into Google account on your device.2. Click Follow, and the attraction pins will be saved in your Google Maps.
