Experiencing The Region of Alsace
The region of the three frontiers where France, Switzerland and Germany meet is
known for its rich artistic delights, cultural heritage, intellectual history and outdoor
activities. Bordering the Black Forest, the Alsace region has much to offer and is
truly a unique place to live. If you find yourself traveling in the Alsace region, this is
certainly a part of Europe you should check out.
Alsace, unlike the other French regions, is rich in French, German and Swiss
influences. The region is situated among the Vosges mountains in the mid-eastern
to north-eastern part of France. Alsace is the smallest of all French regions with
Strasbourg bordering Germany and the Rhine River. Towards Mulhouse in the south,
the region is bordered by Switzerland and the region known as Franche-Comte.
Along the Rhine River much of the Alsace region lies in a fertile plain perfect for vine
growing. Stop to adore the beautiful flowers aligning the small villages, as well as
the culture and architecture from other centuries. The lower area, which rises from
the Rhine, is checkered with vineyards and is definitely a hot place to visit for wine
tasting. The higher slopes are sprinkled with monasteries and old castles among an
abundance of trees, especially wonderful if you want to take an easy hike.
Alsace is unique, among French regions, due to its dual Franco-Germanic cultures.
Its principal cities are Colmar, Mulhouse and the regional capital Strasbourg. Most
of the population speaks French along with the Alsatian dialect influenced from the
French, German and Swiss German roots. The cuisine is a unique blend of French
and German cooking always enjoyable with the ever desirable wines from the
region. Many of the towns of the region have German names with village
architecture honoring the pronounced Germanic influence.
A visit to the Alsace area is always a delightful experience. The Alsace region
provides an enjoyable and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One can drive through the tiny villages or take a train ride along the Rhine and
watch the beautiful scenery pass by.
Stay in mountain slopes at a bed and breakfast, known as a ‘zimmer’, to enjoy the
local cuisine and people. With Strasbourg just nearby, take a day trip to the
headquarters of the European Parliament, and experience all its wonderful
architecture and diverse culture the city has to offer. Despite its international flavor,
Strasbourg is a somewhat laid back city compared to larger cities in Europe.
Home of the capital of art wines of Alsace, Colmar is a city in another world whose
identity represents the entire Alsace region. Appreciate the cities half-timbered
houses, and view the Unterlinden Museum which is housed in a former monastery
housing the well known ‘altar piece of Issenheim’. You can see a little of everything
Alsace has to offer in the Unterlinden Museum, including archeological objects,
sculptures and paintings from the middle ages, Renaissance art, as well as popular
Alsatian art.
Just two hours south of Strasbourg is Mulhouse. Since the 12th century, Mulhouse
has reflected an ever changing industrial city. Known for its astonishing diversity,
Mulhouse has 12 of the most prestigious museums in the world, including eight of
which are devoted to technologies. The most popular include the Museum of the
Car, the Museum of the Railroad and the Museum of the Impression of Fabric.
In August, Mulhouse is host to a large automobile parade while in December feast
yourself on its popular Christmas market. The Eco Museum of Alsace, pronounced
‘L’ecomusee’ in French, boasts something to do for the entire family. Walk along its
grounds to tour this imaginary Alsatian village and experience stories and
workshops of how people lived before modern times. Flashback in time and view the
silversmiths and goldsmiths at work. You might even try it yourself before the kids
dash off to games and rides in a carnival atmosphere.
A culturally diverse city just 45 minutes south of Basel, visit the German town of
Freiburg. Meaning Green city, the college town of Freiburg spreads onto the foot of
the Black Forest where you can explore its wonders. Freiburg is famous for its
secular history, cathedrals, museums, and shopping. As many of the towns in this
region, Freiburg boasts an incredibly festive atmosphere during Christmas and
Carnival which cannot be missed.
During the summer months visit Basel, where you can enjoy many outdoor pubs and
restaurants which adorn the downtown corridor along with shopping, and night life
full of many travelers from abroad. Venture to ‘les trois frontieres’ and you will be
standing where France, Germany and Switzerland all meet together at one point.
Clearly Alsace was recognized the most for its artistic, cultural and intellectual
works. French, German and Italian influences met and enriched the region with
Gothic art followed by Roman art. The region is so rich that there is definitely
something to offer for the entire family.
Jennifer Schilling has lived abroad in Switzerland and traveled Europe extensively.
Come check out here traveling tips at http://www.expatraveler.com/.