Dabbling in Jet Lag
Nestled in the valley between towering forests and rolling vineyards, lies one of the prettiest towns in Alsace, Kaysersberg. This little village is home to only 2,600 people, yet it receives 300 times that in tourists per year. And, while it might not be an off-the-beaten-path destination, there’s a reason it’s so popular.
From colorful half-timbered houses and tantalizing food to endless outdoor activities, Kaysersberg has it all. It’s easy to get lost in the fairytale-like atmosphere and spend hours wandering the Old Town. But you’ll find one day in Kaysersberg is enough to see the main highlights. So, to help you plan your trip I put together the best things to do in Kaysersberg, France. It has some popular spots as well as some hidden gems. I’ve even put together a free printable guide at the end of this post.
Table of Contents
- Map of Kaysersberg
- The Best Things to Do in Kaysersberg, France
- Get In and Around
- Restaurants and Hotels in Kaysersberg
- Free Printable Guide to Kaysersberg
Map of Kaysersberg
The map below contains everything mentioned in this post. Click here or on the map to open google maps.
The Best Things to Do in Kaysersberg, France
1. Watch the Sunrise over the Vineyards
If you’re looking for an enchanting way to start your day in Kaysersberg, watching the sunrise over the vineyards is a must.
Located outside of the Old Town, the vineyards provide a beautiful backdrop as the sun slowly peaks over the horizon. The darkness turns to life and the sky fills with hues of pink and orange. The air is fresh, and the scene is calm. It’s a beautiful time to experience nature and witness the town come to life.
Useful Tip: I witnessed the sunrise a few times in Kaysersberg and found the overlook in front of Château de Schlossberg to be the best.
2. Explore Musée Historique de Kaysersberg
The Musée Historique de Kaysersberg (Historical Museum of Kaysersberg) is for history buffs and cultural feens alike. Located in a 16th-century house, this museum might look small on the outside, but there are some spectacular archeological finds to see.
Here you’ll find collections dating back to the 16th century, including a rare Vierge Ouvrante from the late 13th century. The entire tour takes about an hour and tickets are €2. So, it’s definitely worth stopping by if you want to learn about the history of Kaysersberg.
Address: 62 Rue du Général de Gaulle
3. Take in the Views from Rocher des Corbeaux
The mountains surrounding Kasyersberg are nothing short of jaw-dropping. So, what better way to witness their beauty than to hike up to Rocher des Corbeaux?
From here you’ll have an unencumbered panorama view of the valley below. Granted, it’s a tough 40-minute (1.7 kilometers, 1.1 miles) uphill slog to the top, but the views are worth it. Not only that but this is one of the best things to do in Kaysersberg.
The trail starts at Château de Schlossberg and weaves its way through the forest before reaching Rocher des Corbeaux. There’s only one path and it’s well-labeled. If you go in the afternoon, bring a packed lunch and enjoy it at the top!
4. Visit Le Lac Blanc
Further afield lies one of the most beautiful lakes in Alsace, Le Lac Blanc, or White Lake. It’s named after the color of its clear pristine waters. And let me assure you, it is a sight to behold!
This impressive body of water sits at an altitude of 1055 meters (3461 feet) surrounded by the Vosges Mountains. In winter, skiers dominate its snow-covered slopes, while hikers and cyclists populate the trails in summer.
You can tour the shores of Le Lac Blanc, but for the best views of the lake, you’ll have to hike up to Observatoire Belmont (1215 meters, 3986 feet). From here you’ll take in sweeping panoramas of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and picturesque villages dotting the countryside below. It’s a year-round destination that will leave you in awe.
Getting there:
There are a few ways to reach Le Lac Blanc. The easiest is by car. It takes about 30 minutes and there is a parking lot in front of the lake (GPS 48.125244, 7.096323).
If you prefer public transportation, you’ll first need to take Bus 68R013 to Colmar. From Colmar, there is a bus (Navette des crêtes) that runs regularly to Le Lac Blanc. For more information, click here.
Useful Tip: There are a ton of things to do in Colmar. So, if you end up passing by this wonderful town, consider spending at least a day there.
5. Bike a Section of the Alsace Wine Route
If you’re visiting Kaysersberg then biking a section of the Alsace Wine Route is an absolute must. Not only will you get to explore one of the most scenic routes in France, but it’s also a great way to see the surrounding countryside.
There are hundreds of designated paths that run in every direction. But I would recommend following the Route de Kientzheim that leads to Riquewhir. It’s a beautiful ride, and Riquewhir is yet another charming town in Alsace.
Useful Tip: Alsa Cyclo Tours is the best place to rent a bike in Kaysersberg. They have reasonable prices and always have bikes available. They even offer tours if you prefer to explore the area with a guide. (Address: 31 Rue du Général de Gaulle)
6. Marvel at the Beautiful Architecture
Like Eguisheim, the streets of Kaysersberg are lined with spectacularly vibrant half-timbered houses. In spring, pink and white flowers adorn wooden windowsills, signaling the change in seasons. Then in winter, these already magnificent buildings are decorated with lights and seasonal ornaments as the Christmas market comes alive. But no matter which time of year you visit, the architecture is awe-inspiring.
For the most enchanting streets, head down Rue du Général de Gaulle and Rue des Forgerons. The views from Alte Holzbrüke are also well worth it!
7. Tour the Château de Schlossberg
Kaysersberg is actually a German word meaning Emperor’s Mountain. It comes from the fortress, Château de Schlossberg, that overlooks the city.
The origins of the castle date back to the 12th century when it was used as a look point for the region. And, today, you can tour the castle for free. But that’s not the best part. There’s a staircase that swirls to the top of the castle and opens to the most magnificent view over the city. You’ll have to climb a whopping 100 stairs to the top, but the reward is well worth it!
8. Try a Glass of Alsacitan Wine
Of course, no trip to Kaysersberg is complete without sampling some of Alsace’s infamous wine. Here you’ll find wine cellars and vineyards that have been around since the 13th century. Many of which are family owned and have been passed down for generations.
For the best places to try a glass, check out the list below:
- Domaine Paul Blanck (29 Grand-Rue)
- Jean Dietrich of Alsace Wines (51 Route de Lapoutroie)
- Bernard HAAS & Fils (6 Rue du Général Rieder)
9. Visit the Fortified Bridge
The Weiss River runs through Kasyersberg, cutting the city in two. So, to connect the town a wooden bridge was built.
In 1514, enemy advancements proved relentless, and the wooden bridge was replaced with a fortified one, equipped with a protective wall and a jail. This added wall hid gunmen, while jail housed locals who committed petty crimes.
Today, the original bridge still stands, and the jail has since been turned into a small chapel. Peek through the protective wall for the best views of the Weiss River. Then, if you want to see the bridge in its entirety, head to the corner of Rue du Général de Gaulle and Rue des Forgerons.
10. Discover Verrerie d’Art de Kaysersberg
For something truly unique, take a tour of the Verrerie d’Art de Kaysersberg. Here you’ll get the chance to watch artists design unique masterpieces from hand-blown glass. You’ll discover their workshop, learn about the different stages of glass blowing, and see how they craft glass into artwork. Not only that but the entrance is free! It’s an impressive sight that is an absolute must if you’re visiting Kaysersberg.
Address: 30 Rue du Général de Gaulle
Useful Tip: Verrerie d’Art de Kaysersberg is only open on Friday and Saturday.
11. Admire the Église Sainte-Croix
Construction of the Église Sainte-Croix (Holy Cross Church) began in the mid-12th century and continued through the 16th century. During this time, the church underwent several modifications. And most of what remains of the church today comes from the changes made during the 15th century.
At first glance, this Romanesque-style church appears to be rather simple. But it’s actually home to several notable artworks, including a wooden altarpiece from the early 15th century. Make sure to stop by the Fountain Constantine in front of the church as well as the memorial garden dedicated to the first army in the back.
Address: 41 Rue du Général de Gaulle
Get In and Around
Kaysersberg is a small town, so public transportation is not abundant or frequent. There are, however, a few options.
Colmar to Kaysersberg – The closest town, with public transportation, to Kaysersberg is Colmar. In Colmar go to the bus stop called Théâtre. Then take bus 68R013 towards Orbey. The total travel time is 37 minutes.
Strasbourg to Kaysersberg – If you’re in Strasbourg, take the train from Strasbourg to Colmar. Trains run regularly and take about 30 minutes. Once in Colmar, follow the instructions above. The total travel time is 70 minutes.
Useful Tip: If you’re spending 3 days in Strasbourg, Kaysersberg makes an excellent day trip!
Paris to Kaysersberg – From Paris, take the train to Strasbourg. Trains run regularly from the Paris Est station and take 2 hours. From Strasbourg, follow the instructions above. The total travel time is about 3 hours.
Useful Tip: Train tickets can be bought at SNCF-Connect. There’s also an application, so you can access your tickets from your phone.
Once in Kaysersberg, it’s easy to visit the town on foot. If you want to explore further afield, a car or a bike will be necessary.
Restaurants and Hotels in Kaysersberg
Restaurants
There is no shortage of fantastic restaurants in Kaysersberg. Below are a few places that should be at the top of your list.
- La Table d’Olivier Nasti – Touted as the best restaurant in Alsace. This 2-star Michelin restaurant is something out of this world. If you are looking for a true gastronomic experience, be sure to book a table.
- Côté Vigne Restaurant – Fine dining with excellent service that is reasonably priced. If you love modern French cuisine, this is the place for you.
- Kaysers Bier Taverne – This traditional Alsatian restaurant makes the best tarte flambée in town.
Hotels
There are a ton of great hotels in Kaysersberg. Granted, they are not budget-friendly, but the quality is well worth the price.
- Hotel KLE, Kaysersberg – Modern rooms that are spacious and well-designed. The staff is friendly and helpful.
- Le Chambard – Refined rooms that are super comfortable. They even have an indoor pool!
- Hôtel les Remparts – A lovely hotel with comfortable rooms. They offer free parking and are located on one of the most beautiful streets in Kaysersberg.
Free Printable Guide to Kaysersberg
Click below to get a free printable guide to Kaysersberg!
***
If you’re looking for a charming town steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty, Kaysersberg is the ideal destination. In fact, towns like this are why I love living in France. And, while it might be small, there are a ton of things to do in Kaysersberg. Make sure to use this guide to help plan your trip! It’s sure to be an amazing experience.
Read More Articles about France
Hope you enjoyed my post about the best things to do in Kaysersberg, France, and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.