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TOUR DE FRANCE: CHRISTMAS IN ALSACE!

This week, I’m taking you to Alsace, this charming region of France where the magic of Christmas was born, with traditions that go back centuries. Whether you’re a lover of History, architecture or gastronomy, Alsace is a destination not to be missed. Renowned for its fine wines and tasty cuisine blending French and German influences, it’s a land of authenticity.

A DAY TRIP THROUGH ALSACE’S VILLAGES

Home to some of France’s most picturesque villages, this region seduces visitors with its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and vibrant flowerbeds that seem to have stepped straight out of a fairytale. If you have the opportunity to visit Alsace in December, don’t miss its many Christmas markets. Considered the oldest in the country, they are a veritable ode to local crafts and delicacies: bredele, gingerbread, mulled wine and carefully crafted wooden toys. An unforgettably magical experience for young and old alike.

Here’s a guide to some of Alsace’s most magical villages you’ll discover during your day trip:

– Eguisheim: a village that has preserved a stunning architectural heritage dating back to the Middle Ages. A delightful walk awaits as we stroll along the narrow streets that trace the path of the old ramparts. Following your exploration of Eguisheim, we can organize an optional tasting of six specially selected wines, guided by a winemaker in Eguisheim.

– Riquewihr : a medieval walled village that has remained untouched by time. With its brightly painted facades and artisanal shops, it served as inspiration for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. You’ll explore Riquewihr’s historic and picturesque streets, where rows of magnificent medieval houses offer an enchanting spectacle.

– Kaysersberg: Alsace’s medieval gem, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and fortified bridge. Nestled in the heart of the vineyards, this village, voted “Favorite Village of the French”, invites you to soak up its enchanting atmosphere.

– Colmar: nicknamed “Little Venice”, Colmar is a large, romantic village with a network of canals. Explore its pastel-colored houses and take a boat trip while savoring local specialties like tarte flambée and choucroute.

ON THE TRAIL OF WORLD WAR II

Embark on a journey to explore the key sites of World War II in Alsace. As a border region, Alsace has historically been exposed to conflict, and its experience during World War II is particularly significant.

The Alsace-Moselle Memorial:
In Schirmeck, the Alsace-Moselle Memorial provides a vivid and comprehensive overview of the region’s tumultuous history from 1870 to the late 20th century. Between 1871 and 1945, the people of Alsace and Moselle experienced four changes of nationality. From 1940 to 1945, these were the only parts of France to be annexed by the Third Reich. The memorial’s impactful exhibits shed light on this unique and challenging history, helping visitors understand the struggles of a region caught between France and Germany. Today, Alsace draws strength from the diverse cultures shaped by its turbulent past.

The Struthof-Natzweiler concentration camp:
From 1941 to 1945, thousands of prisoners of over 30 different nationalities were deported to the Natzweiler concentration camp, discovered by American forces at the end of November 1944. Now classified as a historic monument and recognized as a national memorial site in 2014, the Struthof-Natzweiler camp honors the memory of the deportees and highlights the horrors endured within its walls, ensuring that history is never forgotten. Discover these poignant sites to better understand Alsace’s remarkable history during the Second World War.

A RELAXING INTERLUDE AT THE RESORT BARRIÈRE RIBEAUVILLÉ

Nestled between vineyards and mountains, the Resort Barrière Ribeauvillé is a restful stopover. Its elegant, modern architecture and large bay windows make it a soothing, light-filled setting where luxury meets well-being.

Enjoy its spacious rooms with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside, discover Alsatian cuisine in its two restaurants, and relax in its spa. The Spa Diane Barrière unveils a vast 3800 sqm space, where you can enjoy treatments using eco-designed natural products, as well as a balneotherapy center featuring an Alsatian bath, Finnish saunas, Jacuzzis, waterfalls and counter-current rivers.

For those in search of the ultimate thrill, take a trip to the Casino and test your luck at the slot machines, roulette or one of the 11 gaming tables.