Alsace
One of France’s smallest regions, Alsace contains just two departments: Bas-Rhin (67) and Haut-Rhin (68) Lower and Upper Rhine.
Alsace is in the east of France on the German border and the area (and various parts of it) have been alternately German or French many times over the centuries. The region has a Germanic feel, which is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, dress, dialects (German is still widely spoken), names and people (called Alsatians – just like the dog.)
Sandwiched between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine, Alsace is gloriously scenic and largely unspoiled, with delightful hills. The local climate is very similar to the south of England, with cool winters and warm summers, but rarely extremes of temperature. The rainfall is quite high, with highest being in May and June.
The regional capital, Strasbourg, is the home of lots of industry, but is still a charming city, with timber-framed houses leaning together and over the streets. The old buildings in this whole region are reminiscent of gingerbread houses.
The food and drink of the region is similar to that of Germany. Alsatian wine is exceptional, especially the white wines which tend to be exceedingly floral and fruity, which make them very satisfying to drink on their own, but with enough punch to go with most foods.
On a gastronomic front, Alsace-Lorraine is the home of sauerkraut, or ‘chou-croute’ in French. The French love this dish, which is more than simply pickled cabbage. It usually comes cooked with a whole selection of other goodies, and it is very worthwhile to try. Other local food to look out for includes the famous quiche Lorraine, foie gras, sausages, beer and the amazing pastries to be found in the bulging windows of incredible patisseries.
To view some Gites in the Alsace, please visit Gites in the Alsace.
All the best
