France Guide
Alsace and Lorraine
The Route du Vin
Set against the strategic "blue line of the Vosges", the Route du Vin winds from Marlenheim, west of Strasbourg, to Thann, near Mulhouse, through endless terraced vineyards which produce the region's famous white wines. Tasting opportunities are plentiful, particularly during the region's countless wine festivals, which mainly coincide with the October harvest. For a closer look at the vines themselves you can follow various sentiers vinicoles (vineyard paths); ask at local tourist offices for information. In the midst of this sea of vines are dozens of picturesque villages, which outdo each other to have the biggest display of window-box geraniums. Many are dominated from the nearby craggy heights by an extraordinary number of ancient ruined castles, testimony to the province's turbulent past.