There’s not a lot to Katzenthal except lots and lots of hills full of grand cru vines. The village consists of two streets that cross at the village fountain. Almost the entire town was rebuilt after World War II since 90% of it was destroyed during the Pocket of Colmar battle. Ruins of 13th-century Wineck […]
Tag Archives | France
Domaine Keuhn, Ammerschwihr
Ammerschwihr is a small Alsatian town nestled in the Vosges mountains. The town dates back to the 9th century, but its most recent notable event was when it was annexed by the Nazis from 1940-45, during which time 85% of the houses were destroyed. The local vineyard, which sits on 450 hectares, has the prestigious […]
Kaysersberg, France
Kaysersberg is another charming vineyard-enclosed medieval town with bright half-timbered 15th- and 16th-century houses and narrow pedestrian roads. The main industry is, of course, viticulture. The first vines were brought to Kaysersberg in the 16th century from Hungary. They originated from the Tokay vine, which now goes by the familiar name Pinot Gris. The ruins […]
Dopff au Moulin
The Dopff family has operated this winery for 13 generations. Today, three generations work side-by-side. Aside from award-winning wines, Dopff’s claim to fame was pioneering now-common Crémant d’Alsace. In the early 1900’s, Julien Dopff attended a seminar on Champagne-making and decided to give it a try with Alsatian wine. After training for two years in […]
Riquewihr Macaroons
These sugary treats have been a Riquewihr tradition since coconut was introduced here in the early 1700’s. Just try walking through the town and resisting; it’s impossible! The alluring scent wafts into every corner and before you know it, you’ll be picking a flavorful assortment.
Riquewihr, France
Riquewihr is a storybook-like medieval town situated between the Vosges mountains and the Alsatian plains. Ramparts enclose the small town center, which consists of narrow lanes, serene courtyards and bright, half-timbered houses. Riquewihr is part of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (the most beautiful villages of France) association. It’s easy to see why. Riquewihr […]
Mittelbergheim and Domaine Armand Gilg
Quiet hillside village Mittelbergheim is less showy than other Alsace towns, with buildings in subdued earth hues and red roofs. The star grape here is Sylvaner, an ancient variety that has long been grown in Central Europe. The main attraction in town is Domaine Gilg. This small family-run (16 generations!) winery produces grand cru sylvaners, […]
Alsace and Route des Vins
Alsace is a curious, appealing mix of German and French dialects, cuisines and aesthetics. Foie gras and sauerkraut are offered next to wine and beer, and many of the homes are clustered in colorful half-timbered blocks. The best way to see Alsace is on the Route des Vins d’Alsace, which winds through steep vineyards, castle-topped […]
Mont Salève
1,380-meter Mont Salève is part of the Jura chain and the first ridge of the Alps rising southeast of Geneva. Though in France, its proximity to Geneva makes it an ideal destination for Swiss hikers, skiers, mountain bikers, rock climbers and paragliders. The steep bald side faces Geneva and the gently sloping southern side overlooks […]
Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti, or Spanish Steps
This could be the most famous set of steps in the world. Well, this and the Rocky steps. And the Exorcist steps. Okay, you get the point: this is a really, really well-known staircase. To continue with superlatives (this one real), this is the widest staircase in Europe. It’s heralded as one of the most […]
