Alsace 27

Three different countries, two or three languages and every type of ride, from pencil straight canal paths, to rolling meadows and heartbreaking Alpine climbs from the Tour de France.

Embarking on loop rides from three beautiful locations in Alsace, we will cross borders, climb mountains, and enjoy long lazy afternoons in local vineyards and micro-breweries.

As befits a region which has passed from French to German control on multiple occasions, the culture, food and wine is a strong mix of German and French influences. Some locals claim Alsace takes the best from each country and then adds an Alsatian twist.

On this trip, we will tackle climbs in France, Germany and even Switzerland – and sample the best food and drink from each country. Hopefully, by the end of the tour, we will understand why people have fought over this corner of the world for centuries.

Trip overview

Our meeting point is just over the German border, in Durbach, where we can relax and enjoy the local wine festival. Once we reach Ungersheim, the cycling kicks in, with loop rides to the south and west and even a trip to a ride in the Swiss mountains. After 2 nights in the medieval village of Colmar, we finish our tour just south of Strasbourg, with rides out to the Vosges mountains, the Black Forest and of course Strasbourg.

As they love to say in Alsace, “Bis d’nàchscht uff’m Velo!”

“The struggle itself toward the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy”

Albert Camus