Walk the Alsace Wine Route from Barr to Turckheim: Vineyards, Villages & Castles

Arrival in Alsace: Discover the Wine Village of Barr

Tucked between lush vineyards and gently rolling forested hills, Barr is a charming Alsatian wine village bursting with color and character. Just a 40-minute train journey from Strasbourg, it offers a serene and welcoming gateway to the region. Upon arrival, settle into your lodging and take a leisurely stroll along the village’s cobblestone streets, where classic half-timbered houses line the way. In the evening, savor a hearty meal at a traditional Alsatian winstub, paired perfectly with a local wine, and immerse yourself in the genuine Alsace atmosphere before your hiking tour begins.

Night: Barr

Hike to Mont Sainte-Odile: Forest Trails & Panoramic Views

Today’s scenic loop hike leads you along shaded ridges to the revered Mont Sainte-Odile, one of Alsace’s most cherished pilgrimage destinations. Perched high above the plains, the abbey offers breathtaking panoramic views, tranquil gardens, and a rich tapestry of history. Explore the chapel complex, wander a stretch of the enigmatic Pagan Wall, and visit the haunting Chapel of Tears and the Chapel of Angels, both carved directly into the rock. After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and sweeping vistas, make your way back to Barr through forest trails.. After a day on the trails, savour a glass of crisp Riesling paired with a classic tarte flambée—the perfect way to end your first hiking day.

Meals: breakfast Walk: Barr > Mont St Odile > Barr | 5h00 | 15 km | Elévation : +740m/-740m Night: Barr

Vineyard Hike: From Barr to Andlau & Itterswiller

Today’s hike takes you through classic Alsatian wine country, following scenic vineyard paths and passing through postcard-perfect villages. Stop in Andlau, known for its Romanesque abbey, half-timbered houses, and acclaimed Riesling wines. Continue to the hilltop village of Itterswiller, perched among the vines and famous for its panoramic views and flower-adorned streets. From Itterswiller, a short transfer will bring you to Saint-Hippolyte, where you’ll spend the next two nights. Shorter option: For a lighter day, hike from Barr to Andlau only, then transfer directly to Saint-Hippolyte.

Meals: breakfast Walk 1: Barr > Andlau > Itterswiller | 4h00 | 13 km | Elévation : +480m/-480m Walk 2 : Barr > Andlau | 2h30 | 8 km | Elevation: +300m/-300m Night: Sainte Hippolyte

From Vineyards to Fortress: Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg Hike

Today’s circular hike takes you up through forested trails to the spectacular Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, a beautifully restored medieval fortress perched high above the Alsace plain. Explore its grand halls, towers, and ramparts, and take in sweeping views across the Vosges and toward the Black Forest (please check opening times, entrance fee not included). After your visit, descend along peaceful woodland paths back to Saint-Hippolyte After exploring the castle, descend back to Saint-Hippolyte along tranquil woodland paths. If you’d rather take it easy, feel free to skip the hike and enjoy a leisurely day relaxing in the village.

Meals: breakfast Walk: Sainte Hippolyte > Haut Koenigsbourg > Sainte Hippolyte | 4h00 | 12 km | Elevation : +530m/-530m Night: Sainte Hippolyte

Hiking the three Castles from Saint-Hippolyte to Ribeauvillé

Today’s walk takes you along tranquil vineyard paths and shaded forest trails to the enchanting medieval town of Ribeauvillé, nestled at the foot of the Vosges Mountains. You’ll pass the impressive ruins of— the Three Castles of Ribeauvillé — including the largest, Saint-Ulrich Castle, and the smaller Gier sberg Castle. These medieval fortresses, perched high on a hill, once stood as guardians of the valley and now offer breathtaking pano ramic views over the vineyards and town below. Arrive in Ribeauvillé famed for its vibrant old town and a true highlight of the Alsace Wine Route. Wander through its cobbled streets and settle in for a well deserved rest at a local winstub, where you can enjoy a glass of crisp Riesling paired with a warm, freshly baked bretzel—an authentic taste of Alsatian culture. For a more relaxed option, a shorter hike is available with a taxi drop-off in Thannenkirch implying a supplement to be settled on the spot.

Meals: breakfast Walk 1 : Sainte Hippolyte > Thannenkirch > Ribbeauville | 4h00 | 15 km | Elevation : +680m/-680m Walk 2 : Thannenkirch > Ribeauville | 2h30 | 8 km | +320m / -540m Night: Ribeauville

Optional Loop Hike to Riquewihr: Alsace’s Fairytale Village

Take an optional loop hike to Riquewihr, a picture-perfect medieval village known for its colorful half-timbered houses and exceptional wines. Officially recognized as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (the Most Beautiful Villages of France), Riquewihr enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies, and timeless architecture. If you prefer a more leisurely day, stay in Ribeauvillé and enjoy cozy cafés, explore local wine cellars, or treat yourself to some relaxation at the village spa.

Meals: breakfast Walk: Ribeauville > Riquewihr > Ribeauville | 4h00 | 15 km | Elevation : +600m/-600m Night: Ribeauville

Final Hiking Day on the Alsace Wine Route

After a morning transfer to the picturesque medieval town of Kaysersberg, embark on your final hiking adventure along the enchanting Alsace Wine Route. Today’s trail weaves through a vibrant mosaic of vineyards, forest paths, and rolling countryside, leading you to the charming village of Turckheim—renowned for its ancient fortifications, cobblestone streets, and the iconic stork nests that grace its rooftops. For a more relaxed day, start in the nearby village of Ammerschwihr, joining the same scenic route to Turckheim at a gentler pace (with taxi supplement).

Meals: breakfast Walk: Kaysersberg > Turckheim | 4h00 | 14 km | Elevation : +500m/-500m Walk: Ammerschwihr > Turckheim | 3h00 | 9 km | Elevation : +390m/-410m Night: Turckheim

If you’ve selected the superior version of the tour you’ll be transferred to Kaysersberg at the end of the walk for your final night.

Meals: breakfast Night: Kaysersberg

End of tour in Turchkeim or Kaysersberg (superior hotel)!

Say goodbye to Alsace - continue your journey via Colmar or Strasbourg.

Meals: breakfast