From Strasbourg: a traditional wine tour to Colmar

Discover the Charm of Alsace on a Private Wine Tour from Strasbourg

This 5-hour private tour departs from Strasbourg and offers a well-balanced experience of heritage, history, nature, and wine. Priced with the option to reserve now and pay later, the tour provides a comprehensive look at the Alsace Wine Route—one of France’s most scenic and historic wine destinations. With live guides in English, French, and German, it caters to a range of travelers seeking an immersive yet manageable day trip.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of authentic wine tastings, visits to medieval towns, and stops at heritage sites like chapels and memorials. The private group setting ensures a personalized experience, while the scenic drives through vineyards and picturesque villages create memorable visual moments. The tour is suitable for those interested in wine, history, and culture, though it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for people with motion sickness.

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Key Points

• Duration: 5 hours, with flexible starting times
• Includes: Two wine tastings in century-old cellars and visits to historic sites
• Stops: Ribeauvillé, Sigolsheim, and Colmar’s historic center
• Highlights: Panoramic views of vineyards and the Alsace plain, and visits to a chapel surrounded by age-old vines
• Accessibility: Private group, wheelchair accessible, but no food or drinks allowed in the vehicle

Starting Point and Transportation: Pickup in Strasbourg

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Strasbourg, where a driver greets the group in the hotel lobby with a sign displaying the main guest’s name. The transport remains private for your group, making the day comfortable and convenient. The scenic Alsace Wine Route ride features beautiful views over vineyards and charming villages, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Exploring Ribeauvillé: Medieval Town and Castles

The first major stop is Ribeauvillé, a centuries-old town famous for its medieval ambiance. Visitors have about 30 minutes to explore at their own pace, strolling through cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses. The town’s ruins of three castles dominate the skyline and offer a glimpse of its historical significance.

The town’s market square, Renaissance fountains, and wrought-iron signs reflect its cultural richness. The site served as the home of the lords of Ribeaupierre, adding layers of history to the visit. This stop provides a chance to enjoy the authentic atmosphere and take some memorable photos.

Sigolsheim and the National Necropolis

Continuing along the route, the tour makes a poignant stop at the Sigolsheim National Necropolis. Located on the heights, this memorial commemorates soldiers fallen during the battles for Alsace’s liberation in 1944. Beyond its emotional significance, it also offers spectacular panoramic views of the Kaysersberg vineyards and the Alsace plain.

This site combines history with scenic vistas, giving visitors a moment of reflection while also appreciating the landscape that has shaped the region’s history. It’s a notable highlight for those interested in heritage and remembrance.

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Saint-Wendelin Chapel in Ammerschwihr: A Spiritual Vineyard Sentinel

The tour then takes visitors to the Saint-Wendelin Chapel in Ammerschwihr, a small, spiritual building standing within a vineyard. Surrounded by century-old vines, the chapel creates a serene setting for contemplation.

This stop exemplifies the strong link between the land, faith, and winemaking traditions in Alsace. The chapel’s discreet presence amidst the vines offers a peaceful moment and a unique perspective on the region’s cultural fabric.

Tasting Wines in Century-Old Family Cellars

A key part of the tour involves wine tastings in authentic, century-old cellars. Welcomed by a passionate winemaker, you’ll learn about Alsace’s signature grape varieties: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Gris, among others.

The cellars’ weathered walls create an intimate atmosphere where each glass of wine tells a story of terroir, climate, and tradition. The 45-minute tasting session allows enough time to appreciate the nuances of each wine and learn about Alsace’s winemaking secrets passed down through generations.

Discovering Colmar’s Fairy-Tale Streets and Canals

The final destination is Colmar, often described as one of the most picturesque towns in France. With about 2 hours for a self-guided tour, visitors can explore the historic center’s multicolored half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and canals lined with geraniums.

Highlights include the Maison Pfister, a former customs house, and the Saint-Martin collegiate church. A walk through the Petite Venise district reveals pastel-colored fishermen’s houses that reflect in the river, creating a scene straight from a fairy tale. Visitors can also enjoy local products in restaurants or shops to enhance their experience.

Scenic Drive Along the Alsace Wine Route

The return journey features a scenic 1-hour drive along the Alsace Wine Route. The guide points out panoramic views of vineyards stretching across rolling hills and the village landscapes. This segment offers a relaxed way to absorb the region’s beauty before heading back to Strasbourg.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to begin and end your day. The private group setup ensures an intimate experience, and the tour is wheelchair accessible—though travelers should be aware that no food, drinks, or alcohol are permitted in the vehicle, and the tour is not suitable for people with motion sickness. It’s advisable to reserve at least 24 hours in advance to secure a spot and enjoy the full flexibility of the pay later option.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This wine-focused day trip is ideal for those interested in Alsace’s heritage, scenic landscapes, and authentic wines. The stops at historic towns, memorial sites, and chapels add cultural depth, while the wine tastings provide a tasting experience in traditional cellars. The private group aspect offers a tailored, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking a personalized and informative day.

Final Thoughts on the Alsace Wine Route Tour from Strasbourg

This 5-hour private tour strikes a good balance between scenic drives, cultural visits, and wine tasting. Its authentic stops like Ribeauvillé’s medieval charm and Colmar’s fairy-tale streets make it a rich experience for those new to Alsace or returning visitors alike.

While the duration limits time spent in each location, the careful selection of highlights ensures that travelers leave with a strong sense of the region’s heritage and wine culture. The knowledgeable guides and genuine wine tastings stand out as key strengths, making this tour a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Alsace in a manageable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts around 5 hours, including stops, tastings, and scenic drives, with flexible starting times based on availability.

What does the wine tasting include?
There are two wine tastings—one of 45 minutes and another of 50 minutes—held in century-old family cellars, featuring Alsace’s main grape varieties.

Are meals included during the tour?
No, the tour does not include meals, but there are opportunities to sample local products in Colmar or nearby restaurants.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but travelers should be aware of potential uneven surfaces during stops.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Ribeauvillé, Sigolsheim’s National Necropolis, the Saint-Wendelin Chapel in Ammerschwihr, and Colmar’s historic center.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to reserve at least 24 hours in advance to ensure availability and to take advantage of the pay later option.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby