Bas-Rhin

Colmar

This picturesque town is known for its charming half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and romantic canals. It also boasts numerous museums and art galleries, including the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece.

Niederbronn-les-Bains

This small town is a popular spa destination that is known for its natural hot springs and beautiful parks. It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and is a great place to relax and rejuvenate.

Molsheim

This historic town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. It is home to numerous museums and landmarks, including the Gothic-style St. George's Church and the Renaissance-style City Hall.

WELCOME TO Bas-Rhin

Entry Into Department

largest city

Strasbourg

AREA

4,755 km²

POPULATION

1,140,097

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Vosges Mountains

The Vosges Mountains are a range of low mountains in northeastern France, including in the Bas-Rhin department. The mountains are known for their scenic beauty, with rolling hills covered in lush forests, charming towns and villages, and stunning vistas. The region is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities, as well as for its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine.

Alsace Wine Route

The Alsace Wine Route in France is a scenic 170-kilometer journey through picturesque villages and vineyards, offering a unique taste of the region's renowned wines. The route features numerous wineries and tasting rooms, where visitors can sample Alsatian varietals like Riesling and Gewürztraminer. The area is also known for its charming half-timbered houses and traditional cuisine.

Strasbourg Old Town

Strasbourg's Old Town in France is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning medieval architecture, canals, and cultural landmarks. It boasts iconic attractions like the Strasbourg Cathedral and the picturesque Petite France neighborhood. The area is also home to charming cafes, restaurants, and shops that offer visitors a glimpse into the city's rich heritage and unique way of life.

Political

Economy and Government

Bas-Rhin is a department located in the northeastern part of France, in the Grand Est region. The economy of Bas-Rhin is diverse and based on various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The agricultural sector produces crops like wheat, corn, and potatoes, as well as dairy and livestock products. Manufacturing is a significant sector, with companies producing machinery, electronics, and automotive parts. The service sector is also an important part of the local economy, with a focus on tourism, healthcare, and education.

The government of Bas-Rhin is overseen by the Prefect, who is appointed by the national government. The Prefect is responsible for ensuring the implementation of national policies and overseeing local administration. The departmental council, made up of 46 elected officials, is responsible for making decisions on local issues such as education, social services, and infrastructure. The council is led by the president of the council, who is also elected by the members of the council.

In addition to the departmental council, Bas-Rhin is also represented in the regional council of Grand Est, which is responsible for regional development and policy-making. The council is made up of 169 elected officials from across the region. The president of the regional council is also elected by the members of the council.

History

History and Culture

Bas-Rhin has a rich history that spans back to ancient times. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and was later settled by the Celts and Romans. During the Middle Ages, the region was part of the Holy Roman Empire and saw a period of significant growth and prosperity. It was also a center of religious reform, with the Protestant Reformation gaining a foothold in the area.

The culture of Bas-Rhin is a unique blend of French and German influences, reflecting the region's location near the border of the two countries. The local dialect, known as Alsatian, is a blend of French and German, and many people in the region are bilingual. Bas-Rhin is also known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery and woodworking, as well as its vibrant music and dance traditions.

The area is home to numerous cultural landmarks and museums, including the Strasbourg Cathedral, the Alsatian Museum, and the Palace Rohan. The region is also famous for its cuisine, which blends French and German flavors and includes dishes like sauerkraut, tarte flambée, and foie gras. Festivals and events, such as the Strasbourg Christmas Market and the Alsace Wine Route, also showcase the region's unique culture and heritage.

HOTELS

Regent Petite France & Spa

This five-star hotel in Strasbourg's Petite France neighborhood features luxurious rooms with views of the city's canals and historic architecture. The hotel also boasts a spa and wellness center, as well as an on-site restaurant serving traditional Alsatian cuisine.

Hôtel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg MGallery

This four-star hotel is housed in a restored 16th-century building in Strasbourg's historic center. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, as well as a fitness center and on-site restaurant serving French cuisine.

Hotel Les Haras

This four-star hotel is located in a converted 18th-century equestrian academy in the heart of Strasbourg. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant and bar serving innovative cuisine and cocktails. The hotel also offers a range of amenities, including a fitness center, sauna, and bicycle rental.

RESTAURANTS

Au Crocodile

This Michelin-starred restaurant in Strasbourg offers an elegant dining experience featuring inventive cuisine that blends French and Alsatian flavors. The restaurant's menu is designed to highlight local ingredients and changes regularly to reflect the seasons.

La Table du Gourmet

Located in the charming village of Riquewihr, this Michelin-starred restaurant features a menu of refined and creative dishes that draw on Alsatian culinary traditions. The restaurant's wine list includes a selection of local and international wines.

L'Atelier du Peintre

This Michelin-starred restaurant in Colmar features a contemporary and elegant dining room, as well as a menu of innovative and flavorful dishes that highlight local ingredients. The restaurant also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options.