Holidays in Bas-Rhin, Alsace, France

Bas-Rhin meaning lower Rhine is one of the oldest of the French departments. Although densely populated this region offers array of picturesque sites ranging from hills and mountain forests to ruined castles. The various destinations worth visiting in this region include well-known castles and some very unique villages. The climate and the strategic location of this place surrounded by forests one side and Rhine on the other makes it a perfect destination for growing Vineyards.

Architectural Marvels in Bas-Rhin

The majority of architecture in this Alsatian region consists of fantastic ruined castles at the western hillside of Wissembourg town. Yet another group of castles can be found near the Sélestat area.

The magnificent churches at Marmoutier and the village of Neuwiller-les-Saverne are highly recommended for a visit. The abbey church of St. Martin is a well-visited attraction in the Marmoutier village. People visit this 12th century church is famous for its animal carvings on the interiors. The other beautiful village of Hunspach is situated on the inside of the natural regional park of North Vosges. What makes this village typical is the abundance of geraniums of Alsace flowers on almost every house. The small teashop is an ideal place for travelers to take a break and admire this beautiful village.

Famous destinations

Once capital of Europe, the city of Strasbourg is on the list of UNSCO world heritage sites. It houses many museums including the legendary Rohan Palace, which has three museums each dedicated to art genre. While one is about archeology the other two are about decorative arts and fine arts respectively. Ungersheim is the host of a large Ecomuseum which is unique and biggest of its type in the entire France is a definite and a must visit place in Alsace.

Another major attraction is the 12th century castle of Chateau Haut-Koenigsbourg. It is positioned at west of Sélestat in Alsace. It is interesting to watch this medieval castle which survived the 30 years war and got raved twice and was renovated time and again by the successive German and French heirs. This fairy tale like castle is a must see in the Bas-Rhin area of the Alsace in France. The La Petite-Pierre village in the Vosges Regional Nature Park is popular among tourists for the 350 Km marked out trail for hiking.

There is a range of economical to luxury range of car rentals to move around within the region. The traditional Alsatian hospitality is best enjoyed with the exquisite wines and delicious local food that is a delight to senses.


The Author writes for Holiday Home Rentals who have a selection of Gites in Bas-Rhin and Villas in France which can be rented direct from their owners