France is not only one of the most visited countries in the world for the attraction of Paris and its iconic Eiffel Tower. Our neighboring country has much more, such as the castles of the Loire or towns like Riquewihr, which I have to say is the most beautiful of all.
Located in the Haut-Rhin department, in the Alsace region, it barely has 1,000 inhabitants who are used to being visited by tourists who come hand-in-hand with the desire to fall in love with its picturesque streets.
Alsatian beauty and wine flavor
One of the first points in favor of Riquewihr has to do with the climate, which is usually quite pleasant despite being very far from the towns that are part of the Mediterranean French Riviera. That invites you to stroll contemplating its Alsatian-style houses, which live surrounded by vineyards and display a beautiful floral decoration both on the balconies and on the facades. The fact that there are so many vineyards explains why it is part of the so-called Route des Vins (Wine Route), being just 15 kilometers from Colmar (a spectacular city where you can also taste excellent wine).
Its medieval past remains practically intact. We can confirm it by looking at your Wall, since much of it still stands. This means that the town is divided into two clearly separated parts, being able to access the oldest part through a nice portico (the one of the town hall) where you will want to photograph yourself before walking down the main street.
Points of interest are not lacking
That general street is the Rue de General de Gaulle, and how could it be otherwise, it is full of Alsatian houses with the characteristic wooden framework that we like so much. There are some with flowers on the balconies and some with very colorful facades, so visual entertainment is guaranteed.
Walking along said street it is also possible to contemplate the Dolder Tower, a watchtower built in the 13th century that is 25 meters high and also worthy of a photograph. That is if you look at it from the inside, because from the area outside the old town there is a warlike aspect that has nothing to do with the flowers and wood that it displays on the interior façade.
Right next to the tower there is another point of interest. It's about the Sinne Font, which in the past was the place where all the inhabitants went to clean barrels and wine containers. It is from the 16th century and is topped with a lion.
More nice things in Riquewihr? A memorial to the children who died during the First and Second World War, the Tower of Thieves (it became the town's prison) or the churches of Notre Dame, Saint Erard and Saint Margaret.
If you visit it at Christmas ...
In closing, I'd also like to talk about your christmas market. It has been held since the end of November and lasts throughout the month of December. The town is transformed because the monuments are illuminated and merchants put on sale a myriad of artisan products inspired by Christmas. All this enlivened with cookies and hot chocolate to withstand the cold.
Recommended article: The 10 most beautiful villages in France
Riquewihr, Alsace, France in 4K Ultra HD (April 2024)
- Alsace villages
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