Noël is a wonderful time to visit France, when the famous Christmas markets lure visitors to Alsace. The sun sets early in December, but the region’s medieval villages come to life with festive lights and yuletide merriment. Strasbourg offers the country’s oldest such market, situated in different locations across the city (like the square next to the landmark cathedral). And postcard-pretty villages like Colmar and Kaysersberg will be decking the halls with boughs of holly, not to mention glittering lights.
Looking for a charming spot to stay while exploring the region? Our pick is Kayserberg, a hamlet of half-timbered houses overlooking the vineyards. Here you'll find a destination restaurant and refined hotel run by Olivier Nasti, a chef awarded the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF). The four-star Hotel Chambard has 32 elegant rooms, some with views over the vines. Its spa is equipped with a small pool, Jacuzzi, hammam, and sauna. Along with the gastronomic restaurant, there’s also a Winstub for casual Alsace cuisine (like choucroute), and Flamme & Co across the street- a nice spot to grab the regional specialty, flammenküche (like a thin-crust pizza slathered with cream, onion, and bacon bits). For more information, visit lechambard.fr
Image of Christmas in Colmar via noel.tourisme-alsace.com