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If you’re planning a trip to Alsace, you’ll hear a lot about the famous villages like Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé and Eguisheim. And for good reason. I absolutely loved visiting them, and I also had a fantastic time exploring the bigger cities like Colmar and Strasbourg. If it’s your first time in the region, these places deserve a spot on your Alsace itinerary.
But it was the quieter village of Andlau that surprised me the most. It’s not on every must-see list, so I didn’t know what to expect, and it had a completely different feel than other villages we visited in Alsace!
Our experience in Andlau
A peaceful village with a lot of charm
When I arrived in Andlau, it instantly felt different from the more visited villages of the Alsace Wine Route. The streets were almost empty, and for a moment it felt like we were the only travellers in town. I loved that.
The charm here is subtle. You’ll still find the typical half-timbered houses and pretty facades, but everything feels more lived in. It has a few remarkable monuments, such as the imposing Abbatiale Sainte-Richarde, built in the 9th century and modified over time, and the charming 13th-century Chapel of Saint-Andrew with vineyards in the background. Rue des Remparts is another highlight.
Andlau sits right at the foot of the vineyards, so the hills rise gently behind the houses. That backdrop gives the whole place a peaceful, rural character.
A lovely walk through nature and the village
One of my favourite things to do in Alsace villages is simply to wander, and Andlau is perfect for that.
We walked along the river and ended up in a little green area with gardens, more colourful houses, flowers and even a small cascade tucked between the properties. It’s not a major attraction, just a peaceful spot that makes you slow down and enjoy the moment.
And as we were leaving, we saw a stork perched in its high nest. It was such a beautiful surprise and one of those small moments that make a place feel extra special.
Easy to visit with an electric car
We rented an electric car for our trip around Alsace, and Andlau was one of the easiest places to charge. We found a charging spot right in the village and didn’t have to wait, which made it convenient to stop, explore, and continue our day without worrying about range. If you’re planning an Alsace road trip with an EV, this is a very practical stop.
Why I recommend adding Andlau to your itinerary
If it’s your first trip to Alsace, definitely visit the popular places. They’re famous for good reasons. But if you have a bit of time, add a quieter village to the mix – and Andlau is perfect for that.
It offers:
- traditional architecture without the crowds
- nature right in the village centre
- a slower pace that lets you enjoy Alsace differently
- easy parking and EV charging
I loved all the big-name destinations on the Wine Route, but Andlau brought a calm, peaceful contrast that made me appreciate the region even more.
Have you visited Andlau? Share your experience in the comments below!
Where is Andlau?
Andlau is located on the Alsace Wine Route, roughly halfway between Strasbourg and Colmar. It sits at the foot of the Vosges mountains, surrounded by forests and vineyards, which is why it feels so peaceful and green. The village is only a short drive from other well-known spots like Obernai, Barr and Ribeauvillé, so it’s very easy to add to any Alsace itinerary. Whether you’re doing a day trip or a longer road trip through the wine region, it’s a convenient and worthwhile stop.
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