Alsace
Alsace is one of 26 french régions, located on the eastern border of France, on the west bank of the Upper Rhine, adjacent to Germany and Switzerland.
Alsace was part of the Holy Roman Empire and is still inhabited by people speaking a dialect of Upper German. In the course of the 17th century, Alsace was gradually put under French sovereignty and made one of the provinces of France. Its capital and largest city is Strasbourg. Alsace is frequently referred in conjunction with Lorraine, because these two regions (as Alsace-Lorraine) have been contested frequently in history, following a division among the successors of Charlemagne in the 9th century.
Alsace Location
Alsace is located in eastern France on the border with Germany located on the west bank of the Upper Rhine, adjacent to Germany and Switzerland. It is the smallest region in France. Two departments: Haut-Rhin and Bas-Rhin.
Alsace Landscape
It contains many forests, primarily in the Vosges and in Bas-Rhin (Haguenau Forest). Several valleys are also found in the région. Its highest point is the Ballon de Guebwiller in Haut-Rhin, which reaches a height of 1426 m.
Alsace Attractions
Although the region is in one of France´s most industrialised areas, there is plenty to enjoy! The region is famous for its white wines, beer and gastronomy (dominated by sauerkraut!). The servings are plentiful with many pork dishes.
Route du vin d´Alsace (Wine route of Alsace)- Any tourist office will provide a map. It is well signposted, but you should get a map to avoid getting lost! For the adventurous try hiring a bike and enjoy!
Alsace Weather
Alsace has a semi-continental climate with cold and dry winters and hot summers. There is little precipitation because the Vosges protect it from the west. The city of Colmar has a sunny microclimate; it is the second driest city in France, with an annual rainfall of just 550 mm.
