The Region of Alsace

Experiencing The Region of Alsace
By Jennifer Schilling

The region of the three frontiers where France, Switzerland and Germany meet is known for its rich artistic delights, cultural heritage, intellectual history and outdoor activities. Bordering the Black Forest, the Alsace region has much to offer and is truly a unique place to live. If you find yourself traveling in the Alsace region, this is certainly a part of Europe you should check out.

Alsace, unlike the other French regions, is rich in French, German and Swiss influences. The region is situated among the Vosges mountains in the mid-eastern to north-eastern part of France. Alsace is the smallest of all French regions with Strasbourg bordering Germany and the Rhine River. Towards Mulhouse in the south, the region is bordered by Switzerland and the region known as Franche-Comte.

Along the Rhine River much of the Alsace region lies in a fertile plain perfect for vine growing. Stop to adore the beautiful flowers aligning the small villages, as well as the culture and architecture from other centuries. The lower area, which rises from the Rhine, is checkered with vineyards and is definitely a hot place to visit for wine tasting. The higher slopes are sprinkled with monasteries and old castles among an abundance of trees, especially wonderful if you want to take an easy hike.

Alsace is unique, among French regions, due to its dual Franco-Germanic cultures. Its principal cities are Colmar, Mulhouse and the regional capital Strasbourg. Most of the population speaks French along with the Alsatian dialect influenced from the French, German and Swiss German roots. The cuisine is a unique blend of French and German cooking always enjoyable with the ever desirable wines from the region. Many of the towns of the region have German names with village architecture honoring the pronounced Germanic influence.