Fodor's Travel Talk Forums - Alsace question

Will you have a car while in Alsace? I think it is essential. Visiting all the villages along the "Route du Vin" is very easy. The roads are clearly marked and it is a beautiful drive. There are a few hotels the come to mind that I saw while I was there. I would recommend staying in or near ribeauville or Riquewihr. Even though Ribeauville is prettier, it is also busier. Riquewihr is also charming. Here is the list Le Sarment D'Or - This one is right in Riquewihr. Staying here will make it easier to walk to dinner and some of the shops. This one is also recommended by Fodors. Here is a web listing - http://www.alsanet.com/alsace_hotels...r/sarmoran.htm H™tel A l'Oriel - Also in the heart of Riquewihr. On a quiet side street in the pedestrian zone. This one is also recommended by Karen Brown. Here is the link-- http://www.alsanet.com/alsace_hotels...ri/orielan.htm Karen Browns review - http://www.karenbrown.com/franceinns/hotelloriel.html Hotel Mandelberg - This is where I stayed. It is located along the Route du Vin halfway between Ribeauville and Riquewihr in a small villlage called Mittelwihr. The hotel has a Germanic chalet design and is very modern with good beds and nice baths. It is a new hotel so it is in good condition. Each room has a balcony and a small table too! Some over look a vineyard. The location is great as a center for sightseeing. They have a parking lot. I don't think they have a web presence but if you want to see pics send me an Email. TEL is 03 89 49 09 49 FAX 03 89 49 09 48. The rates are from FF420-FF580 for a double which is from $57-78 US dollars. you can't beat that! The highest price room has a 'salon' which I think is a sitting area. They also have a few triples for a bit more. The staff speaks english and is very friendly! Hotel Le Menestral - This place is also just outside Ribeauville and looked decent. They also have parking. Here is their websight- http://www.menestrel.com/hten/ Hotel Le Riquewihr - This is just on the edge of Riquewihr but not in the center. The rates are great and the staff is very helpful here. The hotel offers parking and a breakfast buffet at FF48 ($6.50). Here is the websight- http://hotel-riquewihr.fr/ I hope that helps. I also know a few restaurants in the villages that are very good! The food in general is excellent in Alsace. Send me an Email if you are interested. The Alsace region is beautiful and will offer you a great relaxing vacation. I hope you have fun! One last thing, here is a websight about Alsace www.visit-alsace.com