Splendours of Alsace & Strasbourg - JG Explorer

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Reims area on a bed and breakfast basis.

We journey to our hotel in Klingenthal, stopping en route in Metz. The Old Town is abundant with beautiful architecture and historical sites, and we have time to explore the stunning Gothic Metz Cathedral, stroll along the picturesque banks of the Moselle River and enjoy the vibrant local markets. Or sit back, take in the scenery and indulge in some delicious local cuisine.

The Alsace Villages of Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr are nestled among rolling vineyards and framed by the majestic Vosges Mountains. Ribeauvillé, with its cobblestone streets and houses adorned with blooming flowers, is a town steeped in history. Along Grand Rue, the main street, there's the chance to explore quaint shops and sample local delicacies. Next, we venture to Riquewihr, one of the most beautiful villages in France. Hidden among its well-preserved architecture, discover courtyards, boutiques and cafes.

Later, we make a visit to Bott Frères, a family-owned winery that has been producing exceptional wines for generations. We enjoy a tour of the cellars, learn about the winemaking process and taste a selection of their finest wines, from crisp Rieslings to aromatic Gewürztraminers.

We visit Colmar, a scenic town dotted with colourful houses and beautiful architecture. Visit the well-preserved Old Town, often referred to as "Little Venice" due to its serene canals, or the bustling market square to enjoy local delicacies. There's also the opportunity to visit the iconic St. Martin's Church, a masterpiece of Gothic design. This afternoon, we spend time at a local wine cellar and indulge in some tasting of specially selected regional wines, before returning to our hotel.

This morning, we enjoy a guided tour of Strasbourg, which sits on the German border and boasts a lovely Old Town with quaint colourful houses and twisting alleys, the canals of Petit France and the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral. For 227 years, this imposing sandstone structure was the tallest building in the world and at its summit, the views stretch as far as the Black Forest. For a taste of local flavours, stop by a traditional Alsatian restaurant to try specialities such as tarte flambée or choucroute garnie.

After some free time, we continue to the enticing town of Obernai, surrounded by beautiful landscape, with plenty of historic sites to discover and serene spots for relaxation. On our guided tour, we stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and admire the well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant floral displays. There's also the iconic Belfry, a symbol of the town, with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, and the neo-Gothic Church of Saints Peter and Paul, with its intricate stained glass windows and serene atmosphere.

Today, explore the charming village of Klingenthal at your own pace, and visit the local shops and cafes to enjoy traditional Alsatian treats. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets, take in the unique beauty of the surrounding nature. Find out more about historic sites of the village, such as the former knife-making factory, which is a testament to the village's rich industrial heritage.

This evening, we enjoy our farewell dinner at the hotel, along with a special folklore show.

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.