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. |
