Adventure in Colmar, France!

Little Venice (Petite Venise)

Why Visit?

Adventure in Little Venice: A Thrilling Itinerary

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the enchanting Little Venice, or Petite Venise, in Colmar, nestled in France"s picturesque Alsace region. Known for its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and idyllic canals, this district offers a blend of visual allure and adventurous activities.

Morning: Kayaking the Canals

Start your day at the crack of dawn with a kayaking tour along the serene waterways of Little Venice. Paddle under the low-arching bridges and alongside vibrant, flower-laden houses. Tours are available from local outfitters such as "Colmar Kayak Tours" located on Quai de la Poissonnerie. No experience is necessary, and the gentle currents make for a pleasant morning glide.

Midday: Historical Walking Tour

Post-kayaking, dry off and dive into history with a guided walking tour. Begin at the iconic Saint Martin Church, a majestic example of Gothic architecture. Wander through the Fishmonger’s District, originally the home of Colmar"s professional fishermen and boatmen. Each building tells a story of the past, with structures dating back to the 14th century. Tours typically depart from Place de la Cathédrale and last about two hours.

Afternoon: Cycle the Vineyard Trails

Shift gears and rent a bicycle from "Velo Vino Tour", conveniently located near the launch site for your morning kayak. Take a guided bike tour up the surrounding hills to the vineyards that blanket the region. The Alsace Wine Route offers not just panoramic views but also a chance to indulge in some wine tasting sessions. Pedal through villages like Eguisheim and Riquewihr, each offering unique varietals and rich histories.

Evening: Culinary Delights and Night Stroll

As dusk settles, return to Little Venice for a culinary adventure. Enjoy traditional Alsatian dishes such as tarte flambée at "Le Petit Venise Bistro". Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the illuminated canals, a perfect way to digest and wind down an action-packed day.

Remember to book your activities in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you don"t miss out on this immersive and adventurous experience in one of France’s hidden gems.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Colmar Old Town (Vieux Colmar)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discover the Charms of Vieux Colmar

Start your adventure in the enchanting town of Colmar, nestled in the Alsace region of France. Arrive early to beat the crowds and soak in the serene beauty of its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Begin at the Colmar Train Station, an easy gateway to the town, accessible via direct trains from major cities like Strasbourg or Basel.

Embark on a walking tour from the station, heading straight to the heart of Vieux Colmar. Your first stop is the picturesque Little Venice (La Petite Venise), just a 15-minute stroll away. This area, with its charming canal and vibrant flower-decked boats, is perfect for explorers and photographers alike. Here, hop on a boat for a refreshing ride along the water, revealing views not seen from the streets.

Next, walk to the Pfister House, about 10 minutes from Little Venice. Built in 1537, it is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture with a stunning wooden gallery, octagonal turret, and murals depicting biblical scenes and ancient emperors, offering a glimpse into Colmar"s rich history.

Afterwards, venture to Saint Martin’s Church, located in the central square after a 5-minute walk. Marvel at its gothic architecture and vibrant stained-glass windows - a testament to the region’s medieval craftsmanship.

Conclude your day by wandering through the Fishmonger’s District, where the town’s fishermen once lived. It"s a less trodden path, offering tranquil spots by the water. Enjoy a quiet moment here before heading to one of Colmar’s traditional Alsatian restaurants for a hearty meal of local specialties like Choucroute garnie or Tarte flambée.

Practical Tips

- Wear comfortable walking shoes.

- Keep a rain jacket handy as Alsace can be rainy.

- Boating times in Little Venice vary, so check schedules in advance.

Adventure awaits in every corner of Vieux Colmar, blending historical exploration with the simple joy of discovering hidden nooks and crannies of this fairy-tale town.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Pfister House (Maison Pfister)

Why Visit?

Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Colmar, the heart of Alsace, where the iconic Pfister House (Maison Pfister) awaits. Begin your adventure in this fairy-tale town by catching an early morning train from Strasbourg or Basel, both roughly a 45-minute ride away. Upon disembarking at Colmar station, a short 15-minute stroll through cobblestone streets lined with medieval and early Renaissance buildings will lead you to your destination.

Built in 1537, Maison Pfister is a masterpiece of Alsatian architecture. Its early Renaissance design captivates with an octagonal turret, wooden gallery, and frescoes depicting biblical and secular scenes. The house owes its name to the Pfister family, who owned it from 1841 to 1892, but it was initially built for the hatter Ludwig Scherer. As you explore, imagine the echoes of artisan trades and bustling market scenes from centuries past.

After soaking in the historic ambiance, elevate your adventure by climbing to the top of the nearby Saint-Martin Collegiate Church. The effort rewards you with breathtaking aerial views of Colmar’s multicolored roofs and intricate alleyways. Descend and wander eastward to the launch point for boat tours along Colmar’s canals. These flat-bottomed boats offer a serene glide through Little Venice, the most picturesque quarter of the town, offering unparalleled views and photo opportunities.

Reenergize with a local culinary delight, such as tarte flambée, at one of the traditional winstubs before wrapping up your day. Before heading back, consider a quick detour to the Unterlinden Museum, just a 10-minute walk from Maison Pfister, to witness the famed Isenheim Altarpiece and a vast collection of Rhineland art.

With its blend of architectural beauty, historical depth, and engaging activities, a day spent around Maison Pfister in Colmar promises to enchant and inspire all who venture here.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Unterlinden Museum (Musee Unterlinden)

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling exploration of art and history at the Unterlinden Museum (Musée Unterlinden) in picturesque Colmar, France. Begin your adventure in this enchanting Alsace town by arriving at Colmar’s main train station, where you can either enjoy a 15-minute stroll through the cobblestone streets or hop on a local bus directly to the museum.

As you step into the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a 13th-century Dominican convent, the blend of medieval architecture and modern glass extensions by architects Herzog & de Meuron instantly captivates. Start your tour by marveling at the crown jewel of the museum, the Isenheim Altarpiece, an extraordinary work by Grünewald that is famed for its vivid depiction of suffering and salvation—a poignant start that adventure enthusiasts can appreciate for its depth and dramatic intensity.

Next, unleash your inner explorer as you delve deeper into the museum’s rich collections. Discover an array of artifacts from prehistoric to modern times, including captivating Renaissance paintings and medieval sculptures that tell tales of a bygone era. Each piece in the museum’s diverse collection is a doorway to the past, providing a unique adventure through history.

For those who relish a blend of outdoor activity with cultural exploration, take your adventure outside to the nearby Vosges Mountains. Just a short drive from Colmar, these mountains offer exhilarating hiking trails with breathtaking views that perfectly complement your museum experience.

End your day back in Colmar’s enchanting town center. Wander through the "Little Venice" area, where the quaint canals and colorful half-timbered houses provide a picturesque backdrop for reflecting on the day’s rich experiences.

Whether you"re a lover of the arts or an outdoor enthusiast, a visit to the Unterlinden Museum offers a unique adventure that combines cultural immersion with historical awe, right in the heart of Alsace.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

St. Martin"s Church (Eglise St-Martin)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting adventure to St. Martin"s Church (Eglise St-Martin), an architectural gem nestled in the charming town of Tours, France. This itinerary blends historical exploration with delightful local experiences, perfect for those who thirst for both knowledge and adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Tours

Start your adventure by arriving in Tours, easily accessible by TGV (high-speed train) from Paris in just about an hour. Settle into your accommodation and spend the evening strolling through the vibrant Place Plumereau, a medieval square lined with timber-framed houses and bustling cafes.

Day 2: Discovering Eglise St-Martin

Begin your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring St. Martin"s Church. Located in the heart of the city, this basilica is a revered site, marking the tomb of Saint Martin of Tours, a soldier-turned-saint whose legacy dates back to the 4th century. The current structure, a captivating example of neo-Byzantine architecture, was consecrated in 1925 and stands on the site of previous buildings destroyed over centuries. Spend your morning exploring the intricacies of its design and visiting the crypt, which houses the tomb of Saint Martin.

Post-visit, grab a quick lunch at a nearby bistro before heading out for an afternoon of cycling. Tours is gateway to the Loire Valley, renowned for its vineyards and riverside scenery. Rent a bike and pedal along the Loire à Vélo, a scenic cycling route that offers breathtaking views and a chance to visit nearby castles and vineyards.

Day 3: Vineyard Visit and Departure

On your final day, delve deeper into the local culture by visiting a vineyard. Tours is part of the Loire Valley wine region, famous for its Vouvray and Chinon wines. Join a guided tour to learn about the winemaking process and enjoy a tasting session.

End your short yet exhilarating tour of Tours with unforgettable memories, having experienced a splendid mix of history, architecture, and the great outdoors.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.