Riquewihr is a wonderful and romantic little medieval town, 55 miles from Strasbourg, hidden between the Vosges mountains and some of the most famous vineyards in Alsace.

Riquewihr

Riquewihr is a wonderful and romantic little medieval town, 55 miles from Strasbourg, hidden between the Vosges mountains and some of the most famous vineyards in Alsace. The town is surrounded by its medieval fortifications and is overlooked by a the ancient Château of the duke of Württemberg which dates from 1540 and is today a museum.

Riquewihr was one of the few towns in the area not to be badly damaged during World War II and has not changed much since the 16th century. There are many half timbered houses dating back to the 15th - 18th centuries. The most interesting are Maison Leibrich (1535), Maison Preiss-Zimmer (1686) and Maison Kiener (1574).

As well as the old buildings there are many cobbled streets and old fountains. The famous Dolder tower, a gateway which dates from 1291 (pictured above) is now a museum which recounts the history of the town and contains a magnificent collection of Armour dating from the 15th and 16th centuries.

The narrow side streets are worth exploring also and you will find lots of places to sit and have a coffee, beer, a glass of local wine or a leisurely lunch.

This entire wine village has been declared a historic landmark so if you are planning a trip to Alsace don't miss it.

The above picture is copyright and courtesy of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France organisation.