Day 1 : Arrival in Strasbourg
Strasbourg, seat of the new European Parliament, is an ancient and lively city, filled with treasures to explore. It was named a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1988, the first city to be honoured with the title in its entirety. Meander the canals, cobblestoned streets, and small boutiques of Strasbourg. Visit the old town, its picturesque quarters and half-timbered houses in the neighbourhood known as "The Petite France". Visit the Gothic cathedral and its famous astronomical clock, and the European Parliament. Be sure to sate your appetite as well with the pastries, tartes flambees and fresh cheeses at every corner!
 

Day 2 : Strasbourg to Barr 55 km
The ride along the Bruch Canal, quite easygoing, is one of the prettiest bike paths in Europe. It will lead you out of Strasbourg and towards the vineyards. On route you pass the two charming villages of Molsheim and Obernai, which will seduce you with their half-timbered houses and typical Alsatian feel. Be sure to stop to take many photos! Barr, a wine-growing village located near Strasbourg, is nestled up in the vineyard covered hills. During the summer it's decked out with flowers; you’ll love its winding cobblestone streets that challenge motorists and enchant pedestrians and cyclists.
 

Day 3 : Barr to Riquewihr 55 km
You'll enjoy the tranquil riding today, through vineyards and small villages, but far away from the traffic of the Route des Vins. More typical villages await you, with their pretty window flowers and half-timbered history, such as Dambach and Kaysersberg, on your way to your destination of tiny Riquewihr. Kaysersberg is Albert Schweitzers native town, who was the last French citizen to be awarded the Nobel peace prize. Your home for the night, Riquewihr, shows how a typical village in the region would have looked 400 years ago. Many of the houses date from the 16th and 17th centuries, and still have gorgeous courtyards and fountains from that time. The town has much of its medieval fortification and a castle; it largely escaped damage during the Second World War. You'll also have some beautiful views of the Vosges Mountains.
 

Day 4 : Riquewihr to Colmar 38 km
Today is the last day of riding the pretty vineyard roads and villages. Winemaking in Alsace has a long history. In a region that primarily produces white wines, there are also some very drinkable (and inexpensive!) Pinot Noir reds. Both dry and sweet white wines are produced. You will find some of the most noted dry Rieslings in the world, but Alsace is perhaps even more noted for highly aromatic Gewürztraminer wines. Definitely worth stopping for a tasting! Your evening is in Colmar; the center of the city reveals its charm: the colors and atmosphere of streets still embody much of the Middle Ages. Churches, cloisters, half-timbered houses, facades with ornate wood sculptures, paintings, and edifices from the Renaissance abound.
 

Day 5 : Departure - Bon Voyage!
You take the train directly from Colmar back to Strasbourg this morning.