Situated within the coronary heart of France’s Alsace area, Colmar brims with fairytale appeal and romance. Recognized for its cobblestone streets, half-timbered homes, and winding canals, Colmar is a picture-perfect vacation spot for anybody in search of a romantic getaway.
Whether or not you’re planning a visit together with your vital different, or seeking to pop the query, there are many romantic actions and sights to make your journey unforgettable. Right here is your full information to a romantic getaway in Colmar.
15 Romantic Issues to Do in Colmar
There’s no denying that Colmar has a ton of issues to do, however this information is for {couples} on the lookout for a romantic getaway.
The actions under are essentially the most romantic issues to do on this cute Alsatian city.
1. Gondola Experience on the Lauch River
No romantic journey to Colmar can be full with out a gondola experience down the Lauch River.
This quintessential expertise will take you thru the center of the town. You’ll get to see essentially the most stunning half-timbered homes, a lot of which aren’t accessible on foot, and bridges coated in flowers. It feels such as you’re in a real-life fairytale.
Personal excursions usually are not out there, however you possibly can keep away from the crowds if you happen to go early within the morning or late within the night.
2. Picnic in Parc du Champ de Mars
Parc du Champs de Mars is a peaceable park, excellent for a romantic picnic. Pack a basket with native treats like recent baguettes, cheeses, fruit, and, in fact, a bottle of Alsace wine.
Choose a grassy spot beneath one of many timber and benefit from the surroundings. In summer time, the park is stuffed with flowers and plush greenery, whereas within the fall, the altering colours make for a lovely backdrop.
Helpful Tip: Colmar’s Lined Market has all the pieces you’ll want to your picnic.
3. Bike by means of the Vineyards
Surrounding Colmar are the vineyards of the Alsace wine area. And there’s no higher technique to go to them than by bike.
These well-marked, paved biking paths wind by means of charming cities, passing centuries-old vineyards. And at times they open to attractive panoramic vistas.
You possibly can hire bikes in Colmar and observe the Alsace Wine Route stopping at wineries alongside the way in which for tastings.
Three of the prettiest villages in Alsace (Kaysersberg, Eguisheim, and Turckheim) are all inside biking distance and straightforward to achieve from Colmar.
4. Stroll by means of Petite Venise at Sundown
Strolling by means of Petite Venise tops the listing of actions in Colmar. However what makes it romantic is experiencing it at sundown.
This charming neighborhood is stuffed with pastel-colored half-timbered homes lining the canal, creating an ideal setting for a romantic stroll.
Probably the most spectacular avenue is Quai de la Poissonnerie, however the view of the Lauch River from Rue de Turenne can also be stunning. Including to the appeal are the quaint cafes and eating places the place you possibly can cease for a comfy meal or a nightcap.
5. Discover the Christmas Market
From late November to the tip of December, Colmar transforms right into a magical wonderland. The Outdated City is adorned with twinkling lights, charming wood chalets, and festive ornaments. There’s an irresistible aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and roasting chestnuts within the air.
It’s right here that you simply’ll discover numerous alternatives to create cherished reminiscences. Stroll hand-in-hand by means of the cobblestone streets, admire the gorgeous decorations, sip scorching mulled wine, or browse native crafts. You received’t discover a extra romantic setting this time of 12 months.
6. Have a Spa Day
Having a spa day in Colmar is an opulent technique to calm down, rejuvenate, and join together with your companion.Â
There are a selection of top-rated spa resorts that cater to {couples} in search of a romantic getaway, however the most effective is L’Esquisse Lodge & Spa.
They’ve an indoor pool, a sauna, a Jacuzzi, a steam room, and a health club, offering the right setting for a day of leisure and intimacy.
You don’t have to remain on the lodge to have entry to the spa, however some companies are reserved for company solely. So, if you wish to splurge a bit, that is the right place to do it.
7. Take a Day Journey to the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg
Only a quick drive from Colmar is the beautiful Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg.
Through the years, it’s undergone large restorations to convey it again to its former glory.
In the present day, it gives unencumbered views of the countryside, making it an ideal vacation spot for a romantic day journey. Discover the fortress’s ramparts, towers, and gardens whereas studying its fascinating historical past.
On the finish of the tour, you possibly can take within the sweeping panoramas from the excessive terrace with the one you love by your facet.
8. Wine Tasting
Colmar sits within the coronary heart of Alsace’s wine nation, so, in fact, a wine tasting is an absolute must-do for {couples} visiting. The area gives a number of the nation’s greatest white wines, famend for his or her fragrant, floral, and spicy notes.
You possibly can take a scenic bike experience or a leisurely drive alongside the Alsace Wine Route, which hosts over 100 wineries. However there are additionally a number of locations in Colmar that provide wine tastings. A well-liked selection is the Domaine Martin Jund, the place you possibly can pattern Grand Cru wines in a shocking setting.
9. Experience in a Scorching Air Balloon
In the event you’re on the lookout for essentially the most distinctive and unforgettable expertise, driving in a scorching air balloon over Colmar is it. You’ll float above the winding canals and rolling vineyards all whereas having fun with breathtaking views of the area. The greatest time to fly is at daybreak.
You’ll take off because the solar rises over the picturesque landscapes and whenever you’re completed, you’ll rejoice with a glass of bubbly. It’s a magical and romantic setting from the start to the tip.
Flights are provided all year long however depend upon the climate. So, it’s greatest to guide your flight early and depart an additional day in case it rains.
10. Lunch in a Conventional Brasserie
Colmar’s conventional brasseries serve a number of the most scrumptious Alsatian delicacies. Their rustic interiors are cozy, and their candlelit tables add that additional contact of romance.
Most dishes like choucroute garnie are fairly hearty, however whenever you pair it with a glass of Alsatian wine, the flavour combos will blow you away.
You’ll discover a number of conventional locations to eat round Colmar, however essentially the most well-known is Brasserie des Tanneurs. Its inside is heat and welcoming, and the surface has the cutest decorations on the town. The desserts are even served on heart-shaped plates.
11. Create your personal Candies on the Choco-Story Museum
In the event you and your companion share a love for chocolate, the Choco-Story Museum is a must-visit. This distinctive museum tells the scrumptious story of chocolate, tracing its journey from the cacao bean to specialty retailers in Europe. You’ll even find out about its historical past and position in Mayan and Aztec civilizations.
However the spotlight is the hands-on chocolate-making workshop.
You’ll be taught all concerning the artwork of chocolate making from a grasp chocolatier, after which, make your personal goodies to take house.
12. Take a Scenic Drive on the Route des Cinq Châteaux
Driving alongside the Route des Cinq Châteaux is ideal for {couples} who like historical past, structure, or the fantastic thing about the French countryside.
This route, also called ‘the street of the 5 castles,’ winds by means of the hills simply outdoors of Colmar. It passes 5 castles together with Château de Pflixbourg, Château du Hohlandsbourg, and Les Trois Châteaux d’Eguisheim (The Three Castles of Eguisheim). Every performed a job in Alsace’s historical past and has a novel story.
However essentially the most spectacular amongst them is Château du Hohlandsbourg. It’s one of many largest fortified castles within the area and the views from its terrace look out over Colmar.
There are even picnic benches the place you possibly can take pleasure in a packed lunch.
13. Have Breakfast in Mattress at a Charming Lodge
To spherical off your romantic escapade in Colmar, deal with yourselves to a pleasant breakfast in mattress at one of many charming accommodations. It’s a leisurely begin to your day, crammed with recent pastries, scorching espresso, and Alsatian cheeses.
Among the most romantic locations to remain are La Maison des Têtes – Relais & Châteaux, James Boutique Lodge, and Le Colombier. Each gives stunning rooms in an intimate setting. It’s an opportunity to decelerate and luxuriate in your well-deserved trip.
14. Store for Antiques
Strolling by means of the cobblestone streets of Colmar, you’ll discover a treasure trove of vintage shops. From classic furnishings to delicate porcelain, there’s one thing for each collector. Or you possibly can simply browse for a memento.
Antiquites – Brocante is without doubt one of the most recognized locations to buy antiques. However Antiquités Man Cafard and Antiquités Fontaine Christophe even have a large assortment.
Then, there’s the flea market at Place des Dominicains. It takes place each Friday and is a superb place to soak up the native tradition whilst you store.
15. Take pleasure in Dinner on the Canal
To cap off a romantic day in Colmar, nothing beats a dinner date on the canal. There are a number of eating places that provide alfresco eating choices. However the preferred are Les Bateliers and Bord’eau Restaurant.
Because the solar units, the lights from the close by half-timbered homes mirror off the water, making a magical ambiance.
The menus boast a fusion of conventional Alsatian delicacies and modern dishes, with a formidable wine listing showcasing the area’s greatest vintages. Simply make sure to make a reservation earlier than you go as a result of spots replenish shortly.
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Conclusion
Colmar, with its charming canals and picturesque half-timbered homes, is a metropolis filled with romance. Whether or not it’s a leisurely morning having fun with breakfast in mattress or a treasure hunt by means of an vintage store, there are tons of romantic issues to do right here.
So, pack your luggage, seize the one you love, and prepare to fall in love yet again on this fairytale-like metropolis.
Writer Bio: Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag, a weblog centered on touring and residing in France. Her objective is to encourage others to get off the crushed path and discover a number of the lesser-known locations. On Dabbling in Jet Lag, she shares her expertise as an expat in France in addition to the most effective issues to do across the nation.
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