Road Trip in Alsace: Between Vineyards, Castles and Flower-filled Villages

20/06/2025 00:00

Looking for an unforgettable getaway in the heart of Alsace? Treat yourself to a delightful road trip through rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and postcard-perfect villages. Ribeauvillé, a must-see medieval town on the Wine Route, is the ideal stop for an authentic experience and a wellness break at a spa hotel nestled in the Alsatian vineyards. Here are our tips to enjoy a superb road trip in Alsace!

Step 1: Start your journey on the Alsace Wine Route

The Wine Route is Alsace’s enchanting itinerary. Over 170 km, you will discover rolling landscapes dotted with prestigious vineyards, welcoming wine cellars, and typical regional villages. Ribeauvillé is ideally located at the heart of this magical route, close to renowned towns such as Colmar, Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg.

Do not hesitate to stop at a winemaker’s estate to taste a local Riesling or Gewurztraminer and uncover the secrets of Alsatian wines.

visite route des vins

Step 2: Explore Alsace’s castles

Alsace is inseparable from its fortified castles. Around Ribeauvillé, three majestic silhouettes dominate the plain: Château Saint-Ulrich, Château Girsberg, and Château du Haut-Ribeaupierre. A short hike will take you to these ruins, offering exceptional views of the vineyards, the Vosges, and the famous Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg.

The Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg is a must-see on your Alsace road trip. Beautifully restored and located just 30 minutes from Ribeauvillé, this 12th-century castle offers a spectacular visit, from dungeon and drawbridge to armory, imperial kitchens, and ramparts. Reconstructed interiors, weapon collections, and panoramic views of the Vosges, Black Forest, and even the Alps on a clear day, make it an immersive and lively historical site.

Les 3 châteaux de Ribeauvillé

Step 3: Stroll through flower-filled villages

Ribeauvillé, with its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and floral fountains, embodies the typical Alsatian village. It is also an incredible medieval town, with its castles (as mentioned above) and remnants of fortifications such as the famous Butchers’ Tower. In the Middle Ages, it was a haven for minstrels under the protection of the local lords (the Ribeaupierres).

You may also explore Riquewihr (ranked among “The Most Beautiful Villages of France”) as well as Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, and Bergheim — all awarded “Favourite Villages of the French” for their unique charm and strong Alsatian identity.

visite village alsace

Bonus Step: Enjoy a wellness break in our spa hotel in Ribeauvillé

After a day full of discoveries, nothing beats a relaxing break in our spa hotel in Ribeauvillé. Our establishments welcome you in an authentic setting combining Alsatian charm and modern comfort, perfect to recharge before continuing your journey. Enjoy a moment of relaxation in our wellness area with jacuzzi, sauna, and hammam (available only at Hôtel de la Tour), all designed for your comfort.

Whether you are a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or simply in search of enchanting landscapes, Alsace warmly welcomes you. Plan your itinerary, fill up on discoveries, and let yourself be charmed by this Alsatian road trip, with a spa hotel in Ribeauvillé as your peaceful haven. Book your wellness stay now in the heart of the Alsatian vineyard at one of our establishments (hotel in Ribeauvillé town centre or hotel near the vineyards).