History

Alsace changed its nationality several times. Most recently in World War II, when the French conquered it from the Germans. Therefore one very often finds German names of villages, streets and sights like Kaysersberg or Osenbach. Many of the inhabitants, especially the older generation, have also remained bilingual.

Villages and towns worth seeing besides Strasbourg:

• Colmar
• Eugisheim
• Kaysersberg
• Ribeauville
• Riquewihr

Wine-producing region

Alsace is also known for its wine region. In all villages and towns there are numerous wine growers and wineries open for tastings. A must for every wine lover!

Asparagus season in Alsace

The region is known for its exquisite food and great restaurants. In May/June it is also asparagus season and this wonderful and healthy dish is served everywhere. Not to be missed!

Betty on Tour with The Rolling Beast

During the Whitsun holidays I decided to take a little tour through Alsace and enjoy the great nature with the deep forests and the vineyards.

Eguisheim

My first stop was in Eguisheim, a medieval town on the edge of the vineyards. A short walk through the village centre felt like a journey through time: beautifully restored half-timbered houses decorated with many colourful flowers. Many small boutiques offering handicrafts and art. I was particularly fascinated by a glass blowing workshop with fascinating balls and figures. Various wine growers offer tastings in their shops.

Drive through the vineyards and the deep forest to Osenbach

After a two hour stay in Eugisheim I decided to go to the tranquillity of the Vosges and set off through the vineyards. Gorgeous small streets with fascinating views of the Rhine and the deepest nature awaited me.

Osenbach

The village is already situated in the middle of the Alsace mountain landscape and is surrounded by pristine forests and vineyards. Here is a nature campsite that I had chosen for my weekend:

Camping Osenbach

I was looking for a natural campsite and stumbled across it during my research.

In the middle of the campsite there is a large meadow with a small hut in which there is a reading corner with many books. In front of it there is a relaxing zone with sun loungers. Besides the pitches there are also very cosy tents and wooden huts. The pitches are quite large and individual. Electricity is available everywhere.

The only thing I can complain about are the sanitary facilities. Women and men are not separated. Cleanliness: it is not too dirty or unpleasant, but it could be better. Toilets: very small, no toilet paper inside and no storage for own paper. Shower: no regulation of cold and warm water, but at least it is warm, the water pressure is very low.

Despite the sanitary facilities, I can highly recommend the campsite with its beautiful surroundings. I’ll be back for sure.

Cycling through the vineyards near Osenbach

I decided to go on a bike tour with Romeo. Wintzfelden and Waldacker were on the agenda. There were almost no people on the way and we could enjoy the loneliness. Alsace is also known for its many storks and we watch them clattering on the freshly mowed fields.

Trois Epis and Le Galtz

The round trip with The Rolling Beast took me over narrow serpentines to Trois Epis, where I wanted to visit the lookout tower Le Galtz. A statue of Christ with a view of Colmar and the Rhine Valley. Trois Epis is the starting point for many hikes and bike tours. Le Galtz can be reached on foot in about 45 minutes. The path is easy and not very steep. In any case, you will be rewarded with a wonderful panoramic view of Alsace and the Rhine plain.