i 🚲 Cycling & touring
Cycling the Alsace Wine Route
Around 130 km of cycle route through the vineyards, from Marlenheim to Thann, via Riquewihr, Eguisheim and Kaysersberg.
Overview
The Véloroute du Vignoble d'Alsace (Alsace Vineyard Cycle Route) runs alongside the Alsace Wine Route and crosses the Vosges foothills from Marlenheim to Thann, over just over 130 kilometres. It forms a section of EuroVelo 5. The route alternates between cycle paths, old railway lines, stretches of the old Roman road and quiet shared roads. There are a few climbs, but they open up lovely views over the hillside vineyards and the Alsace plain.
The route divides into five stages: Marlenheim–Obernai, Obernai–Sélestat, Sélestat–Colmar, Colmar–Guebwiller and Guebwiller–Thann. Each section links half-timbered villages, Romanesque churches and ruined castles, from Rosheim to Mittelbergheim, Dambach-la-Ville to Riquewihr, Eguisheim to Rouffach. The stops count as much as the pedalling: a cellar to taste a grand cru, Gertwiller's gingerbread, Thann's Gothic collegiate church at the foot of the Rangen vineyard. You can ride the whole route over several days or pick just one stage for a day out, using the railway stations close to the route.
Where to do it
In Colmar (Haut-Rhin (68)), in Alsace. Best season: 🍂 Autumn.
Good to know
The Alsace Wine Route was officially created in 1953 and stretches for more than 170 km. The cycle route alongside it is 131.5 km long and in places follows old railway lines and the old Roman road.
Tips
Join the route by train (Molsheim or Obernai from Strasbourg, Turckheim from Colmar, Thann by tram-train from Mulhouse): you can then return by rail without going back to your starting point. The route has a few hills, and an e-bike hired locally makes them easier. If you're tasting, keep the quantities sensible since you'll be getting back on your bike.
Location
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Alsace Wine Route cycle path?
The official Alsace Wine Route website gives 131.5 km between Marlenheim and Thann. France Vélo Tourisme counts 127 km, as it ends the route at Cernay. The 170 km often quoted refers to the Wine Route by road, which is longer than the cycle route.
Is the Alsace Wine Route cycle path suitable for beginners?
The route mixes cycle paths and shared roads, with a few climbs, mainly in the north and south. France Vélo Tourisme rates the central section, between Châtenois and Turckheim (about 27 km), as suitable for beginners. The northern and southern sections are better suited to regular cyclists.
How can you reach the cycle route without a car?
From Strasbourg, take the train to Molsheim or Obernai, or cycle along the Bruche Canal cycle route. From Colmar, a cycle path leads to Wintzenheim and the train serves Turckheim. From Mulhouse, the tram-train runs to Thann.
How many days do you need to cycle the whole Alsace Wine Route?
The official website divides the route into five stages, from Marlenheim to Thann. With village visits and tastings, allow several days. A fit cyclist can go faster, but the route is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. A single stage also makes a great day out.
Information checked in October 2026. Opening hours, prices and conditions may change: check the official website before you travel.
Nearby (within 20 km)
Weekend idea around Colmar
- 1Cycling the Alsace Wine RouteStarting point · Colmar
- 2KaysersbergMust-do activity · 9 km away
- 3KaysersbergMust-see place · 10 km away
Looking for more ideas in the area?