Alsace-Lorraine

Discover splendid scenery, pretty medieval villages and a truly multicultural atmosphere as you cruise the waterways of Alsace in north eastern France, Luxembourg and Germany. Framed by the pine trees of the Black Forest and the blue-tinted Vosges mountains, this culturally unique region has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel and offers superb cruising to suit all tastes.

The tiny French region of Alsace is as wonderful as the art and architecture of its cities. Follow the network of graceful rivers and canals to the delightful cities of Nancy, Metz, Lutzelbourg and Strasbourg, where storks’ nests perch high on the chimney tops and window boxes of geraniums provide vivid splashes of colour. Stop for refreshments en route at ancient timber-framed ‘Auberges’ and enjoy the region’s famous light, refreshing wines and beers and distinctive cuisine – there are more Michelin starred restaurants here than anywhere else in France.

From its vantage point overlooking the valleys below, Metz on the river Moselle is well worth visiting; its cathedral’s stunning stained glass windows have earned it the name ‘God’s Lantern’. Strasbourg is a delightful mix of old and new, its magnificent cathedral, cobbled streets and 19th century mansions sit comfortably next to the many modern-day buildings befitting a city that is home to the European parliament. Over the German border, enjoy carefree cruising in the naturally beautiful region of Saarland and soak up the laid-back atmosphere and pavement café culture of its cosmopolitan capital, Saarbrücken.

Read what the papers said about Alsace

Boating enthusiast Gerry Mulvaney chose to cruise in luxury and captain a Calypso through the graceful region of Alsace. He discovered the delights of Alsatian cuisine, the incredible Arzviller Boat Lift and wishes the locks in the UK were all as easygoing as he found them in France.

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Suggested Cruises in Alsace-Lorraine