A Taste of Europe

GERMANY & FRANCE

GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAYS IN THE BLACK FOREST, ALSACE, CHAMPAGNE

Champagne is a world famous region, located in North Eastern France. The Champenois vineyards are planted only with Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay; grapes. These magnificent vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see over rolling hillsides, dotted with picturesque villages. Behind these billions of bubbles is a long history; and it wasn't until the late 17th Century that the tart wines of Champagne became the sparkling wines that we all know so well today. Our walks take us through this lovely undulating countryside - past vineyards, gorgeous oak forests and beside swift flowing streams.

The Alsace region, nestled between the Rhine River and the Vosges Mountains, is one of France's most unique areas. It is blessed with a wealth of beautiful scenery, cultural sights and is famous the world over for its fine white wine and delicious cuisine. The storybook villages with their Tudor style houses are an absolute delight. Our walks take us along the famous wine route and into the glorious deciduous forests of the Vosges. We learn about the areas Celtic heritage and visit some of Europe's finest old castles and monasteries.

The Black Forest has always been a region, which conjures up images of deep dark forests with winding romantic paths, picturesque valleys and cozy timber farmhouses. Discover a fairytale landscape as we walk our way through some of Southern Germany's most beautiful countryside. Its stunning beauty which includes pristine mountain streams, alpine meadow and hillsides ablaze with wildflowers allow you to step back in time and imagine what ancient Germany might have once been like.

OUR HOTELS & CUISINE

Our first hotel is directly on the border of Champagne and Burgundy;; so we have the best of both these famous food and wine regions. Our hotel has been an absolute labour of love by the Vandendriessche Family during the last 10 years. Nestled in the tiny village of Courban is the enchanting Chateau de Courban. This noble, classical mansion enclosed by ancient stone walls, has been rebuilt in 1839 on the foundations of a 17th century castle, of which is left a beautiful tower housing a dovecote. More recently the family have lovingly restored the chateau and have established a charming boutique hotel. Enjoy a delicious cuisine highlighting the specialties of two of France's most famous food and wine regions.

Our hotel in Alsace is situated in one of France's most beautiful villages – Obernai.; Our hotel was once the former manor house and wine cellar of the distinguished Baron de Gail Family and is now one of the premier hotels of the region. After a day of walking you will certainly look forward to relaxing in their brand new wellness centre. In the evening enjoy fine dining in their excellent restaurant where you can also sample some of France's premier white wines.

In the Black Forest we stay in the charming village of Menzenschwand. Our cozy family hotel is located on the edge of the village at the beginning of one of the most beautiful valleys in Southern Germany. Typically German, the day begins with a healthy breakfast buffet. Before dinner savour the setting sun and enjoy a pre dinner drink looking up towards the highest mountain in the Black Forest. At night enjoy delicious home cooked meals as our hosts, Frau and Herr Dietz, introduce us to the gastronomic delicacies of this region.

Tour combination

Departure dates have been arranged to allow both the "A Taste of Europe" and "Eastern Circuit" walks to be combined.