My very first acquaintance with the Alsace Wine Route was when I watched an obscure episode of Rick Steve's Europe a long while back. I had shelved that memory since I had never imagined I would ever go here. And when I got an opportunity to visit this area this year, I went back and re-watched the entire episode and figuring out the best way to check out this amazing area.
Armed with a car and a few choice recommendations of the villages to visit, I made my way on the windy country roads, making my way from village to picturesque village along the aptly named Rute des Vins, the Wine Route, of Alsace.
It was everything I had expected, and even more. Imagine the beauty of Napa Valley combined with the charm of the rustic and well-preserved French villages, all tapestried over a rich history dating back to the 16th century.
And while the villages themselves thronged with crowds rivaling Disneyland, as soon as one stepped out of them, the crowds seemed to disappear, leaving you to enjoy the view in peace and solace, as intended.
Riquewihr
Alsace France