Alsace: Nemo’s Spring Awakening

When time is short, Alsace remains one of our favorite getaways. Despite visiting over one dozen times over the years, this region never fails to surprise us with hidden gems and new perspectives. This excursion marked the first outing for "Nemo," our blue 4x4 Sprinter, following his winter hibernation—and we couldn't have asked for better conditions. With April delivering a perfect 23°C and radiant sunshine, the stage was set for a classic exploration.

​We kicked off Saturday in Eguisheim, staying overnight at the local campsite to soak in the medieval atmosphere. On the second day, we opted for the mountain route through the Vosges between Eguisheim and Turckheim. This path offered exactly what we look for: rugged scenery and several castle ruins to explore, blissfully free from the typical tourist crowds. The elevation and the quiet of the ruins provided the perfect contrast to the bustling wine villages below.

​Gastronomy and viticulture are, as always, top priorities. A visit without the classic combination of Choucroute Royale paired with a crisp, local Riesling is unthinkable—it is a culinary "must" that defines the region’s identity. True to ritual, we didn't leave empty-handed; we secured several excellent bottles to restock our cellar back home, a mandatory tradition for every successful trip across the border.

​The finale took us through a detailed village tour of Turckheim, capped off by a farewell dinner that reminded us why we keep coming back. The quality of the meat—rare and rich—paired with a local Pinot Noir provided the ideal closing note to the weekend. As we drove back late Sunday evening, the verdict was clear: even after twelve-plus visits, Alsace still delivers a fantastic dose of history and hedonism. A truly perfect weekend!Read more