Why Alsace is an Exceptional Cycling Destination
Alsace has one of the most developed cycle networks in France, with more than 2,500 kilometres of marked cycle paths and greenways. This exceptional density is explained by the Germanic and Alsatian influence that has always considered cycling as a daily means of transport as much as a leisure activity. Alsatian municipalities have invested massively in cycling infrastructure for decades, creating an interlocking network that allows the entire region to be crossed from one end to the other without using a single major road.
The relief of the Alsatian plain, particularly favourable for cycling, allows outings accessible to everyone without excessive effort. The plain extends at an altitude of between 150 and 250 metres, with very gentle slopes. For the more sporty, the Vosges foothills offer more challenging tests with climbs towards castles and passes that will delight climbers. For families with children, the entirely flat greenways along the Rhine and the Rhine-Rhone canal are ideal.
The Via Alsatia: Alsace's Flagship Cycling Route
The Via Alsatia is Alsace's reference cycling route. This north-south axis crosses the entire region over approximately 250 kilometres, from Lauterbourg on the German border to the Swiss border via Strasbourg, Colmar and Mulhouse. Entirely signposted and mostly on dedicated cycle paths or greenways, it allows the most varied Alsatian landscapes to be discovered: Rhine forest, agricultural plain, vineyards, picturesque villages and the wetlands of the Ried.
The Via Alsatia can be completed in 3 to 5 days depending on pace and chosen stages. It is accessible to all levels, including families and untrained cyclists thanks to its almost flat profile. Cyclist-friendly accommodation - hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts with secure bike storage and early breakfast service - dots the route regularly. Luggage transfer services also offer to transport your bags from one stage to the next, allowing you to pedal light.
The Wine Route by Bike: the Most Iconic Itinerary
The Alsace Wine Route by bike is undoubtedly the most popular cycling experience in the region. This 170-kilometre route between Marlenheim and Thann links the finest wine villages of Alsace, winding between the vineyards. Unlike the car route, the cycling itinerary uses agricultural tracks between the vineyards, greenways and low-traffic roads that offer complete immersion in the wine landscape.
The Wine Route by bike is particularly recommended in autumn during the harvest - from mid-September to mid-October depending on the year - when the vines dress in red and gold and activity in the cellars is at full swing. It is the ideal season to combine cycling and wine discovery, with tastings at winemakers throughout the route. The villages of Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim and Turckheim are the essential stops.
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EuroVelo 5 and Cross-Border Routes
Alsace is crossed by EuroVelo 5, the great European cycle route linking London to Rome via Brussels, Strasbourg and the Great Saint Bernard pass. The Alsatian section, which follows the Rhine between Strasbourg and Basel, is one of the most beautiful and most frequented on this European route. It allows an Alsace trip to be combined with an extension into Germany (Black Forest) or Switzerland (Basel).
Cross-border cyclists particularly appreciate the ease of crossing between Alsace and German Baden-Württemberg. Several cycle bridges span the Rhine between Strasbourg and Basel, allowing passage from one country to the other in just a few pedal strokes. This European dimension makes Alsace by bike a unique experience in France.
Practical Tips for Planning a Cycling Holiday in Alsace
Which bike to choose: for the plain and the Wine Route, a touring bike or city bike is more than sufficient. For climbs into the Vosges, an electric bike (e-bike) is strongly recommended - it allows slopes to be tackled without excessive effort and arriving fresh at each stage. Many hire shops offer e-bikes in Alsace, particularly in the major towns and tourist villages of the Wine Route.
When to go: the best period for cycling in Alsace is spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October). Summer can be very hot on the Alsatian plain with temperatures exceeding 35°C, making long stages difficult. Winter is not recommended because of cold and the risk of ice on cycle paths.
Where to stay: many Alsatian accommodation providers offer cyclist-friendly services: secure bike storage, repair kit, route maps, clothes washing service and copious breakfast for a good start to the stage. The "Accueil Vélo" label identifies accommodation and restaurants committed to welcoming cyclists.
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Family Routes and Greenways
Alsace is also an ideal cycling destination for families with children. Several entirely flat and car-free greenways are perfect for introducing the youngest to cycle touring. The Rhine-Rhone canal greenway, which crosses Alsace from north to south for more than 100 kilometres, is particularly appreciated by families for its shade, safety and numerous water and picnic points.
The cycle path along the Ill between Strasbourg and Colmar is another quality family option. It follows the Alsatian river in a preserved natural setting, crossing alluvial forests, wetlands and picturesque villages. The gradient is virtually zero throughout the route, making it accessible even to the smallest cyclists.
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Gastronomy and Wines: the Pleasures of the Stage
One of the greatest pleasures of cycling in Alsace is the gastronomic discovery at every stage. The region offers an exceptional concentration of winstubs, wine cellars, markets and local producers accessible directly from the cycle paths. After a day's pedalling, nothing beats an Alsatian table d'hôte with tarte flambée, choucroute or baeckeoffe accompanied by a glass of Riesling or Gewurztraminer from the local winemaker.
Wine cellars on the Wine Route willingly welcome cyclists for tastings. Some estates even offer special cycling packages with tasting and the option of shipping purchased bottles directly to your home - a practical solution to avoid weighing down the panniers.
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Bringing Home a Souvenir of your Alsatian Adventure
After a cycling tour in Alsace, bringing home a few bottles of wine from the vineyard crossed is the best way to extend the memory of the journey. A carefully selected Alsatian wine gift set from a winemaker met on the route, or ordered online, is the perfect gift for reliving the flavours of the stage long after returning home. Gewurztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris are the three grape varieties to favour for a representative panel of the Alsatian vineyard.
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