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Vacations - France, Germany, Switzerland
from: Jay BauderThe 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.
A visit to the Alsace area is always a delightful experience.
The Alsace region provides an enjoyable and relaxing escape from
the hustle and bustle of city life. One can drive or take a
train ride along the Rhine and watch the beautiful scenery
unfold before your eyes. The word 'magnifique' describes this
beautiful region as you escape city life into a peaceful
solitude.
Stay in mountain slopes at a bed and breakfast, known as a
'zimmer', to enjoy the local cuisine and people. With Strasbourg
just nearby, take a day trip to the headquarters of the European
Parliament, and experience all its wonderful architecture and
diverse culture the city has to offer. Despite its international
flavor, Strasbourg is a somewhat laid back city compared to
larger cities in Europe.
Home of the capital of art wines of Alsace, Colmar is a city in
another world whose identity represents the entire Alsace
region. Appreciate the cities half-timbered houses, and view the
Unterlinden Museum which is housed in a former monastery housing
the well known 'altar piece of Issenheim'. You can see a little
of everything Alsace has to offer in the Unterlinden Museum,
including archeological objects, sculptures and paintings from
the middle ages, Renaissance art, as well as popular Alsatian
art.
Just two hours south of Strasbourg is Mulhouse. Since the 12th
century, Mulhouse has reflected an ever changing industrial
city. Known for its astonishing diversity, Mulhouse has 12 of
the most prestigious museums in the world, including eight of
which are devoted to technologies. The most popular include the
Museum of the Car, the Museum of the Railroad and the Museum of
the Impression of Fabric.
In August, Mulhouse is host to a large automobile parade while
in December feast yourself on its popular Christmas market. The
Eco Museum of Alsace, pronounced 'L'ecomusee' in French, boasts
something to do for the entire family. Walk along its grounds to
tour this imaginary Alsatian village and experience stories and
workshops of how people lived before modern times. Flashback in
time and view the silversmiths and goldsmiths at work. You might
even try it yourself before the kids dash off to games and rides
in a carnival atmosphere.
A culturally diverse city just 45 minutes south of Basel, visit
the German town of Freiburg. Meaning Green city, the college
town of Freiburg spreads onto the foot of the Black Forest where
you can explore its wonders. Freiburg is famous for its secular
history, cathedrals, museums, and shopping. As many of the towns
in this region, Freiburg boasts an incredibly festive atmosphere
during Christmas and Carnival which cannot be missed.
During the summer months visit Basel, where you can enjoy many
outdoor pubs and restaurants which adorn the downtown corridor
along with shopping, and night life full of many travelers from
abroad. Venture to 'les trois frontieres' and you will be
standing where France, Germany and Switzerland all meet together
at one point.
Clearly Alsace was recognized the most for its artistic,
cultural and intellectual works. French, German and Italian
influences met and enriched the region with Gothic art followed
by Roman art. The region is so rich that there is definitely
something to offer for the entire family.
About the author:
Jay is the web owner of http://www.Rental-Cars-In.com
that provides information and resources on rental cars,
vacations, airfare, hotels, and travel. You can visit his
website at: http://www.hotels-in.net
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