Reference: UT20
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Walking through the heart of the Alsatian vineyards
- Exploring the authentic villages which are full of historical intrigue
- Experiencing the timelessness of the Vosges balloons
- Enjoying the culinary specialties such as Munster Cheese
- Sampling some of the many excellent wines in local ‘caves’
Walking in Alsace region
Cost per person twin-share accommodation: From $1,150
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Colmar station and transfer to Kaysersberg or Kientzheim, wine tasting
On arrival at Colmar train station you will be transferred to the first town, Kaysersberg or neighbouring Kientzheim, by taxi. Located in the heart of the Alsace wine region between the Vosges mountains to the west and the Rhine to the east, these are quaint medieval towns of half timbered wooden houses decorated with flower boxes (in season). A perfect introduction to Alsatian culture is a visit to a wine cellar for wine tasting. Overnight Kaysersberg or Kientzheim.
Meals: Nil
Day 2 Walk to Lapoutroie, visit cheese dairy (6hrs)
The walk today takes you west into the mountains via Freland to the town of Lapoutroie, with its brandy distillery and cheese of the Munster Valley made from cow’s milk. It is claimed that the distinct flavour of the cheese is obtained from the flora in the Vosges pastures and the ancient production methods which have varied little over the years. Today you have the option to visit either the distillery, museum or cheese factory. Overnight Lapoutroie. Distance: 20km, Total ascent/descent +750m/-540m
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3 Walk via White Lake to Le Bonhomme or Orbey (6hrs)
A loop walk through the foothills of the Vosges past White Lake (Lac Blanc), through pine forests and pastures and along small streams. The countryside is particularly conducive to walking. Overnight Le Bonhomme or Orbey. To Orbey - Distance: 18km, Total ascent/descent +790m/-680m
Meals: B,L,D
Day 4 Walk to Labaroche (4-5hrs)
This morning you walk via Pierre Tremblants to Labaroche located in the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park, in the very heart of Welche country. Overnight Labaroche. Distance: 15km, Ascent/descent +450m/-200m
Meals: B,L,D
Day 5 Transfer to Colmar, trip concludes
Trip concludes after breakfast with a transfer back to Colmar train station.
Meals: B
moderate 
The daily walks are around 4-6 hours, between 15-20km/9.5-12.5mi and maximum ascents/descents of 790m (2591ft) per day.
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.
What's included
- 4 breakfasts, 3 lunch packs, 3 dinners (two of the dinners are gastronomic dinners) - does not include drinks – continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, occasionally eggs and meats, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner will consist of 3 to 4 courses which include regional specialties
- 4 nights accommodation in 2 and 3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
- Luggage transfer (1 piece, max 20kg per person)
- Information pack including route notes & maps (one set per party booked)
- Wine tasting and cellar visit
- Visit to cheese dairy or a brandy distillery or brandy museum (choice of one)
- Transfer by taxi from Colmar railway station to the first hotel on day 1 and back to Colmar station on day 5
What's not included
- Travel to and from Colmar
- Dinner on day 1, lunch on days 1 and 5, drinks
- Items of a personal nature
- Entrance fees
- Tour guide – this is a self-guided walking trip
- Transfers not noted as included
- Travel insurance
- Hotel taxes may apply - these are payable locally and range from €0.8-€3 per person per night
