A Hidden Gem in France

Photo credit: Aswathy N from Unsplash

I have been thinking a lot about the hidden gems all over the world. I recently did a Trouvaille Live (my collaborative weekly chat with friends from the industry) on my Facebook page about San Miguel de Allende which will be reading for another day. And I thought about all the gems I have experienced, the ones on my list, and the hundreds, if not thousands, that I know nothing about. It is an amazing world, isn’t it?

So I thought I would spend some time reconnecting with everyone here by telling you about a few of my favorite gems. These are just little snippets but you all know you can reach out if you want to find out more.

So, here is one of my favorite gems in France - Colmar. Located in the Alsace region, in Northeast France, this area abuts the border of Germany. In fact, the area has been traded back and forth with Germany too many times to count! The magic of that little history is that the area has been beautifully influenced by both cultures.

Photo credit: Artiom Vallat from Unsplash

Not far from Strasbourg (another lovely destination), Colmar is a beautiful town full of canals and flower boxes and half-timbered houses. So beautiful. I have heard that it was the inspiration for the design behind the village in Beauty and the Beast and I believe it!

The best way to see Colmar is to walk. And wander. Those of you who know me or have worked with me know that these are my favorite places. Where you can wander the streets and get lost but never really get lost. This town is a photographer’s dream. Around every corner is a more picturesque sight than the last. And, if you have time, take a boat ride on the canal. It is always interesting to view a place from the water.

Photo credit: Mehmet Bozgedik from Unsplash

The canals are shallow so it is a bit like punting on the Cam. Slow and soft, just gliding by the colorful homes and shops.

As you wander, check out all of the small boutique shops selling local items and food, art and antiques. Pick up some food in a shop and take your lunch by the side of the canal. Or stop at any one of the lovely cafes and eat some good local food and watch the world go by. And my favorite? Stop for an afternoon snack at one of the little hidden cafes and rest after all the walking.

Photo credit: Phillip Glickman from Unsplash

And if you don’t mind the cold, Colmar’s streets are lit with lights and the streets are full of stalls for their annual Christmas Market. Shop for local art and crafts, ornaments and local treats. Such a lovely time to be here!

My biggest PRO TIP is to spend the night here. The town is a popular day trip destination (only 35 minutes from Stasbourgh) and can be a little crowded in the high season. If you spend the night in this lovely town, you will have the morning and evening magic to yourself. And you can also get the chance at a lovely dinner in one of the many Michelin starred and plated restaurants in Colmar. This little town boasts more than ten! While there may not be many tourist attractions in the city, there are plenty of reasons to make this an overnight stop.

Colmar is only a 2-hour train ride from Paris and a lovely way to start a tour of the beautiful Alsace region. With all of the picturesque towns and great food and the wine route, it is just a lovely part of France to explore.

If you are ready to start dreaming about a trip to France in your future, reach out to me here.