francophile03

Hi, we'll be in the Franche-Compte region this summer. I had planned originally to train over to Colmar for a couple of days. Now I'm reading that quite a few here think that Colmar warrants half day at most. And that Eguisheim is more authentic old-world towns instead of Colmar. I also noticed Obernai was favored over Colmar too.

But it's a hassle to take the train to Obernai, transferring twice, once in Mulhouse and the other in Strasbourg. For Eguisheim I can go to Colmar and either have the hotel pick me up or take a taxi as it's not that far.

I'm a bit confused. Should I stick with Colmar and daytrip over to Eguisheim or stay just stay in Eguisheim? I can take a daytrip or half day trip to Freiburg from Colmar too. It seems like Eguisheim is much smaller than Colmar and I am not into winetasting. Is there much else to see in Eguisheim?

valtor

Hi,

I did not visit Eguisheim and Obernoi, but I was at Colmar and loved it. It is a small, beautiful town. You can spend a full day there. Do not forget to visit the Bertholdi museum (the sculptor who made Liberty Statue in NY).

grimmy

Eguisheim is a beautiful very small town but I think staying in Colmar makes more sense if the trains aren't convenient.
There's actually a nice bicycle trail from Colmar to Eguisheim if you chose to rent one. Nice flat country ride.

billy_boy

There's also the Untenlinden Museum in Colmar which showcases Middle-age art and society.

There's just a bit more to to do and see in Colmar than in Eguishem.

mabern2

I think these little towns are kind of “each to their own” but if you are looking for charm and authenticity you will definitely fall in love with the Alsace area. I have seen some of the negative (or not so much of a fan) postings for Colmar but I found this to be one of my favorites. Here is my experience with the Alsace region in 2002:

We took the train from Paris to Strasbourg. Arrived at 12:00, spent the night here, this was a beautiful city. It was easy to navigate and found a few pretty areas in the town, especially their weeping willows in the parks. Next day left in the morning, rented a car and drove to Eguisheim. On our way we visited my favorite castle thus far…….Mt. Koenigsbourg, this is such an authentic castle and we found it by kind of accident. It is an awesome sight!!!

From here we decided to find somewhere to stay in Eguisheim. We had an idea from our guidebook and went straight there. It turned out that she had a full house but kindly called 2 other places and found us a nice place to stay. We had the whole attic space for something like $46 including breakfast. Elizabeth, the owner, was a very nice lady. She even came and met us at the original place and escorted us to her place. We got settled and headed out to see the town. I know you mentioned that you were not a wine fan but the highlight of this town was the wine tasting. I discovered my favorite wines here….Gewurztraminer and Tokay Pinot Gris…. and the gentleman that we met here was one to remember. He spent time with us just talking about the different wines as well as life in general. It was a great time.
After a great breakfast of fresh made breads and coffee we headed towards Switzerland for the day. After seeing what we wanted to we headed back towards Colmar, arrived about 5:00 pm to Maison Jund, where we reserved this morning before heading into Switzerland. This was an awesome place. It was just like an efficiency apt. I found this town to be a great mix of a little town atmosphere but with a lot to see. We wound up spending 3 nights in Colmar. The Monoprix was the best I have seen as of yet, the bakery was great and they even had a cybercafé there. Very convenient. The city itself was big but not overwhelming. I have fond memories of this town. We had a great time just walking around in and out of shops. There was even a festival going on, we bought some of the prettiest linens here.

So, sorry this sounds like a portion of my “trip report” but I just wanted to share another point of view of Colmar. I really don’t know why most people don’t find it as charming, but I think it is all in how these little towns are experienced. So I would suggest going in with an open mind and get your own vibe for each city. Try everything and find your favorites!

francophile03

Thanks to all! I appreciate it. Wow, mabern2, I love your trip report alot! For practical reasons, I will stick to Colmar. Besides I'm longing to visit the Alsace region again as I had a too brief visit in Strasbourg so I think I'll really enjoy Colmar.

cigalechanta

We liked Colmar, we stayed at the "Hostellerie, Le Maréchal" where the terrace dining overlooks the canal.
Eguisheim is smaller but has beauty with all the flowers on the houses and there is more color.

francophile03

Thanks cigalechanta, the Marechal looks nice.