I am delighted to say that this was one of our most enjoyable and memorable holidays yet. The Alsace region and the accomodation at Les Ramparts de Riquewihr were more wonderful than we had hoped for or expected. Firstly the apartments; we stayed in Little Bear and we found it to be completely charming. Perfectly placed, right in the center of Riquewihr and yet totally private and quiet. This ground floor apartment has access to the serene and fragrant garden where there are peaceful seating areas, as well as its own little outside seating area off the wintergarden. The apartment is decorated in the most charming, romantic, cosy and welcoming style whilst having appliances of the highest standard including a top of the range microwave/oven and a krupps coffee machine. Pods for the krupps are available from the office run by the very efficient and friendly Valerie. Nothing was ever too much trouble for her and you could tell she is as passionate about Les Ramparts and Riquewihr as Jean Paul, the owner and they are both so genuinely determined to do all they can to ensure a wonderful experience is had by their visitors. Every tiny little detail has been thought about, down to the provision of tabs for the washing machine and dishwasher and quality toiletries in the shower room.We loved our stay in Little Bear and will certainly return again.
As for the Alsace region, well it is just beautiful and Riquewihr is chocolate box pretty with endless charm to be found around every corner. It is so lovely, its hard to take it all in. Other beautiful and charming little towns we visited were Kaiserberg and Ribeauville and a gorgeous little village near Ribeauville called Bergheim. Then of course there is Colmar which is larger than the others but also very beautiful. We found the local people to be very welcoming and helpful.If you love ancient architecture in pretty towns and villages with wonderful food and wine ( the local pinot gris is fabulous) all set in amongst rolling vine covered countryside, then look no further, you will have found paradise. Do try to take a trip into the Vosges mountains as well and take lunch at one of the mountain farm restaurants serving wonderful, rustic traditional dsihes. Alsace is said to be one of the sunniest regions of France and the sun certainly shone for us all days but one and we were able to sit outside to eat most days. It was just fabulous in every way possible and we can't wait to go back and do some more exploring!