Alsace, on the eastern border of France has a complicated history. Tossed back and forth between France and Germany, it means that today this sliver of the country has a rich culture with the best parts of both, in its architecture, food, and wine.
Our routes are real “village hoppers” – following the small roads of the Alsace Wine Route, dotted with half-timbered homes spilling over with geraniums, and mostly, the effusive friendliness of the locals.
Discover the charm of France’s Alsace region on an unforgettable bike tour that takes you through medieval towns, rolling vineyards, and picturesque villages. From Strasbourg to Colmar, pedal along quiet country lanes lined with half-timbered houses, blooming flower boxes, and iconic stork nests perched on church steeples.
This self-guided Alsace biking trip combines scenic cycling with authentic French culture, fine wines, and regional cuisine. You’ll explore beautiful towns such as Obernai, Ribeauvillé, Eguisheim, Riquewihr and Kaysersberg, to name a few, each offering a glimpse into Alsace’s rich history and unique Franco-German heritage.
Your Alsace biking adventure begins in Strasbourg, the cosmopolitan capital and home to one of Europe’s most beautiful Gothic cathedrals. From there, your cycling journey winds south through lush vineyards, medieval villages, and charming market squares before finishing in the fairytale town of Colmar.
Each day, enjoy scenic routes between vineyards, forests, and villages, guided by our well-researched, detailed maps and route notes. Your luggage transfers are handled for you, allowing you to ride freely and comfortably. Along the way, you’ll stay in welcoming hotels and savor dinners featuring Alsace specialties—such as tarte flambée, choucroute, and fine Riesling wines.
Our preparation ensures smooth logistics from start to finish, and you’ll have phone support available throughout your journey should you need assistance on this independent tour. We touch base at the start of your self-guide biking trip, and are always in easy contact if you have any questions along the way.
Some of the highlights that you will experience on our Alsace Bike Tours are the city of Strasbourg. Begin in this vibrant European capital where French and German influences blend seamlessly. Explore the cobbled streets of La Petite France, lined with canals and flower-decked half-timbered houses. Don’t miss the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral, renowned for its intricate astronomical clock and panoramic tower views.
Cycle south to Obernai, one of Alsace’s most enchanting medieval towns. Surrounded by vineyards and mountain views, Obernai offers colorful architecture, inviting wine taverns, and a lively local market. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your charming hotel, perhaps sampling local wines from the nearby slopes of Mont Sainte-Odile.
Our itineraries also take you through Ribeauvillé, in the heart of the Alsace wine route. Known for its three ruined castles overlooking the town, beautiful Ribeauvillé combines medieval charm with a strong winemaking tradition. Stroll through narrow streets filled with half-timbered houses, flower-filled balconies, and cozy wine bars.
A short ride away lies Riquewihr, often called the “Pearl of the Alsace Vineyards.” This perfectly preserved village is a highlight for every traveler—its cobblestone streets and colorful façades look straight out of a storybook. Many visitors consider Riquewihr one of the most beautiful villages in France, and it’s easy to see why.
Continue on your Alsace bike tour through vineyards and gentle hills to Kaysersberg, another jewel of the region. Framed by a castle and river, this village combines old-world architecture with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Take time to visit local wine cellars or enjoy a glass of Gewürztraminer in a sunny courtyard, letting your legs rest after a hard day’s biking.
Your final stretch leads you through Eguisheim, a circular village famed for its concentric streets and brightly painted houses. Voted one of “France’s Most Beautiful Villages,” Eguisheim is also a nesting site for storks, the beloved symbol of Alsace. Their nests adorn rooftops and church towers throughout the town.
You’ll end your journey of your Alsace cycling trip in Colmar, a masterpiece of Alsatian heritage. With its canals, charming houses, and elegant churches, Colmar feels like stepping into another fairy tale. Explore the historic center, visit the Unterlinden Museum, or simply relax in a café surrounded by colorful architecture, while practicing your French when ordering a coffee!
A highlight of this trip is following part of the Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d’Alsace), one of France’s oldest and most scenic wine trails. You’ll pedal through vineyards producing world-renowned Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris wines, passing by traditional wineries and charming wine cellars. Many cyclists enjoy stopping for tastings or tours along the way—each village offers its own unique varietals and family-run producers.
Alsace is famous for its vibrant colors. Houses painted in blues, pinks, and yellows; red geraniums cascading from windows; and green vineyards stretching to the Vosges foothills. The region’s churches, castles, and stork nests add a unique quality to every ride.
For the more eager cyclists, our longer, challenge Alsace cycling itineraries allow you to bike right into Germany. The route brings you to charming and ancient Breisach, where you can stop for explorations, perhaps a wine tasting, and lunch. Then cross back into France, and pass through Vaubun-designed Neuf-Breisach (classified by UNESCO), with its typical protective walls and intriguing wheel-spoke design.
