Alsace lies in the east corner of France, on the border with Germany. This beautiful, enchanting area nestles between the Vosges mountains and the region of Lorraine to the west, and the river Rhine, which forms a long natural border with Germany, to the east. The higher slopes of the mountains are forested and sprinkled with monasteries and old castles. The region is well known for its picturesque countryside which is a mix of dense forests, rich farmland, pretty vineyards, fortified towns and quaint villages of half-timbered houses with geranium-filled window-boxes and the famous wine route between Colmar and Strasbourg.
Alsace is unique among French regions due to its dual Franco-Germanic character. It has often been described as the gateway between Latin and Germanic cultures,. Even though much of the architecture, cuisine, dress and dialect is Germanic in style and the stereotype of the people matches that often held of the Germans, the people see themselves as French. The majority of the population speaks French with a decided German accent, the cuisine is a blend of French and German cooking. Many of the towns of the region have German names and the village architecture delights in a pronounced Germanic influence.
Strasbourg is the headquarters of the European Parliament, with all of its wonderful architecture, diverse culture and international cuisine. Built on the Rhine, it is the cultural, economic and intellectual capital of Alsace, famous for all around the year performances at the Opera or theatres, exhibitions in its museums, concerts and festivals. Two places most worth visiting here are: l'Ancienne Douane and Château des Rohan Of interest is also the Strasbourg Cathedral, known as one of the most prestigious Gothic structures in Europe, because of an important collection of 13th century stained-glass windows, an astronomical clock form 16th century, 18th century organ and a series of fourteen tapestries from 17th century.
Vosges is a kingdom of magnificent deep forests and there is also an opportunity to enjoy skiing or summer excursions. Some of the loveliest beaches in Europe lie on the north. A visit to this area is a delightful experience, as the surroundings is a walker's paradise. It provides an enjoyable and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle. Another scenic area, with its gentle rounded mountains and glacial lakes, is the 3000km2 national park, the Massif de Vosges.
Museums worth visiting are the one of Mulhouse, which offers an unusual collection, and the car museum, the largest in the world with 600 cars. Try the speciality of the region - "Alsation Dish" that includes ham, beef sausages and Alsation pies, and the local "foie gras". Other delicacies of the place are; choucroute (sauerkraut), pork chops, bacon and ham with famous seasoned cabbage, the local cheese Munster and traditional pastry. The wines of Alsace are well known with the Riesling being one of the best white wines of the place. Beer is also very important to the region's economy, and the famous Kronenbourg beer is produced here. Summer is a good time for Alsation wine lovers to visit, as a wine festival is held every weekend in a different town.