The Bas-Rhin is beautiful and full of charm, it is famous for its white wines. It borders (clockwise from the North) the German states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Baden-Württemberg, and the departments of the Haut-Rhin and the Vosges.
Due to its German heritage, most place names are German and not French. The Alsatian language, a regional variety of German, is still widely spoken in addition to French. About one third of adults and one fourth of children in the region are fluent in Alsatian. Many street names are also bilingual.
Quaint villages dot the landscape with wine buffs heading for the 'Route du Vin' which takes in hilltop castles, vineyards and half-timbered houses. Ideal to enjoy crisp white wines such as Riesling or Gewurtztraminer.
Head to the lively city of Strasbourg with its medieval watchtower, excellent contemporary modern art museum and Gothic cathedral. Sauerkraut is at its best here!
The Vosges are magnificent and offer opportunities for outdoor activities.
