Why visit the Christmas markets at least once?

Every year, as the last days of November arrive, Alsace takes on a new appearance. The streets light up, the façades are adorned with enchanting decorations, the scents of cinnamon and mulled wine fill the air… and the Christmas markets come to life.

True institutions of the region, the Alsatian Christmas markets attract visitors from all over the world. Yet beyond the beautiful illuminations and the wooden chalets, why should one experience a Christmas market at least once?

Because in Alsace, Christmas is far more than a time of year: it is a genuine atmosphere to discover, savour and share.

Villages transformed into a fairy-tale setting

This is probably one of the reasons why the Alsatian Christmas markets are so magical.

From Strasbourg to Colmar, and through the villages along the Alsace Wine Route, the markets are set up in the heart of the historic centres. The squares, lanes and façades then take on the appearance of a fairy-tale setting.

As night falls, the illuminations highlight the half-timbered houses, the historic squares and the cobbled lanes. The Christmas decorations blend into the traditional architecture and lend the villages an almost unreal atmosphere.

Visitors stroll without necessarily having a specific destination, simply to admire the lights, the decorated shop windows and the details that might have gone unnoticed during the day.

An experience that awakens all the senses

A Christmas market is not experienced with the eyes alone.

It is also discovered through the sense of smell, thanks to the scents of cinnamon, orange, chocolate, melted cheese, gingerbread and mulled wine that accompany every stroll.

It is savoured through Alsatian specialities: bredalas (traditional Christmas biscuits), mannalas (small brioche figures), kougelhopf, tartes flambées, cheeses, charcuterie and artisanal sweets.

Finally, it is listened to: music, Christmas carols, lively conversations and a festive atmosphere create a true seasonal soundtrack.

It is this combination of small sensations that makes the experience so memorable.

Discovering local craftsmanship and finding unique gifts

Christmas markets are also an opportunity to take the time to discover local craftsmanship.

Decorative objects, wooden creations, pottery, candles, jewellery, gourmet products and Christmas decorations: the chalets abound with ideas for those who wish to give a gift or bring home an authentic souvenir.

Rather than choosig gifts in a hurry, visitors take pleasure in strolling, talking with the artisans and searching for the small gesture that will truly delight.

Do not hesitate to walk around the entire Christmas market before making a purchase: you may only find the best deal at the very end!

Because every market has its own personality

Concerned that you might tire of Christmas markets? There is no risk of that! Each village is different, and many Christmas markets offer an original concept to set themselves apart.

• A medieval theme in Ribeauvillé and Neuf-Brisach (troubadours, knights, dancers and wild boar roasted on the spit).
• Fortifications and incomparable charm in Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Bergheim and Eguisheim (authentic markets in iconic villages along the Wine Route).
• Spectacular, unmissable markets in Colmar and Strasbourg (the largest and most renowned Christmas markets in Alsace).

A stay of a few nights in a spa hotel is therefore an excellent opportunity to discover several of them, at your own pace.

Why not visit the Christmas markets this year? A few days in Alsace, with discoveries, fine cuisine, illuminations and a moment of well-being in a spa hotel: a delightful way to begin the festive season at a gentle pace. Book a room now in one of our hotels in Ribeauvillé: the Hôtel de la Tour in the town centre, or the Hôtel le Ménestrel, right next to the historic centre!

pictures:  © OT Pays de Ribeauvillé-Riquewihr