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Well marked paths and quiet country backroads provide the perfect setting to explore one of the most picturesque regions of France. Wander along the cobblestone streets of quaint villages and be impressed by the architecture of Romanesque and Baroque churches. Sample some of the Alsace's finest gastronomic delights as you travel through undulating farmland, orchards and vineyards. You will be able to discover the summits of the Vosges, unusual and stunning 'balloons' or round topped hills as you trek through the valleys of this spectacular region.
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19kg of CO2-e PP per day
(114kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Eguisheim
Eguisheim is one of the most beautiful villages on the wine route, just 8km from Colmar. Wine making has been an important industry in the area since the Middle Ages and was largely developed by the Bishops of Strasbourg. During the afternoon you can warm up your legs with a walking tour of the old town, where remnants of a fortified castle that was constructed in the 13th century are visible, or relax and sample some of the great wines of the region in one of the many cafés in town.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Walk to Turckheim (4-5hrs)
Following breakfast at the hotel the walking day begins. The first ascent leads to the Three Castles of Eguisheim (600m/1970ft) and later on to Hohlandsbourg Chateau, which offers a panoramic view over Colmar and the Alsace plain dotted with numerous villages. You spend the night in the beautiful town of Turckheim, where each evening at 10pm a night watchman in traditional 16th century costume sings as he switches off the streetlights. Distance: 14km/8.7mi, ascent/descent: +563m/1847ft, -534m/1751ft
Meals: B
Day 3
To Kaysersberg (4-5hrs)
Today's walk takes you from Turckheim to Kayserberg, the birthplace of Dr Albert Schweitzer, Nobel Peace Prize winner, crossing Grand Cru vineyards. Kaysersberg is dominated by a high fortress which stands as a reminder of the strategic importance of the town and its turbulent past. There will be time in the afternoon to explore or relax with a local vintage. Distance: 14km/8.7m, ascent/descent: +654m/2145ft, -631m/2070ft
Day 4
To Munster via Labaroche and the Croix de Wihr Pass (6-7hrs)
This morning you leave the wine region to walk in the Vosges. It is a long day of hiking and we suggest setting out early. From Kaysersberg (at 250m/820ft) you ascend to the village of Labaroche and the summit of Petit Honack (927m/3188ft). After the Croix de Wihr Pass (840m/2756ft), the path leads to Munster in the heart of the Vosges Massif. The Munster Valley is the home of the famous Munster cheese made with cow's milk. It is claimed that the distinct flavour of the cheese is obtained from the flora in the pastures and the ancient production methods which have changed little over the years. Distance: 23km/14.3mi, ascent/descent: +1113m/3651ft, -999m/3277ft. Two options to shorten this stage: Option 1: Taxi from Kaysersberg to Trois-Epis (walking 14km/8.75mi). Option 2: Walk from Kaysersberg to Turckheim, then catch a train to Munster (walking 12km/7.45mi).
Day 5
Ascend towards Wasserbourg and the village of Wintzfelden (5hrs)
You leave Munster and ascend in the direction of Wasserbourg (746m/2448ft). You pass the summit of Mühlenkopf (805m/2641ft) and descend further into the valley to discover an area with vineyards and the village of Wintzfelden. Distance: 15km/9.3mi, ascent/descent: +791m/2595ft, -810m/2657ft
Day 6
Walk through the Rhine Valley and return to Eguisheim (4-5hrs)
Taking a beautiful terraced path dominating the Rhine Valley, you walk in the direction of Gueberschwihr, a medieval town with numerous 16th to 18th Century wine-growers' homes made of timber and stone. Along the way you will see Celtic religious sites and an abbey, before returning to Eguisheim to end your walk. Distance: 17km/10.5mi, ascent/descent: +509m/1669ft, -656m/2152ft
Day 7
Trip concludes Eguisheim
Arrangements conclude after breakfast.
What's included
What's not included
Accommodation for 6 nights in 3 star hotels. All rooms have ensuite facilities. Some hotels will offer a swimming pool, sauna or wellness centre.
Most of the walk will be on well defined walking trails. There will be some road walking, as you enter & exit villages or towns.
GRADE 3 - daily walks are around 6 hours and between 14 and 23km/8.6 and 14.2mi. The daily ascents and descents as shown under each day's itinerary (max is day 4: +1216m/3989ft, -1102m/36158ft). The trails are well defined. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced hikers.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.
With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.
6Days
Introductory to Moderate
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