Holiday rentals Bas Rhin

Three iconic places to discover in the Bas-Rhin

The Bas-Rhin is home to the treasures for which Alsace is renowned. From medieval architecture to vineyard landscapes, these three sites embody the historical and cultural heart of the region. Each one showcases a different aspect of Alsatian heritage and is well worth a visit during your stay.

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Strasbourg

Strasbourg Cathedral has dominated the city centre since the 12th century. Its pink sandstone walls, carved portals and famous 142-metre spire make it one of Europe’s greatest Gothic achievements. This monumental structure was the tallest in the world for over two centuries, before being surpassed in the modern era. Inside, the astronomical clock fascinates visitors: its automatons mark the hours with a precision that 16th-century craftsmen had planned down to the last detail. The monument remains a living symbol of Alsace, bearing witness to the continuity between the Middle Ages and the present day.

2. Haut-Kœnigsbourg Castle

Perched at an altitude of 757 metres above Saint-Hippolyte, this medieval castle offers a striking contrast between the historic fortress and the panorama stretching out at its feet. Fully restored in the early 20th century, it combines medieval authenticity with modern comfort. Its towers, walls and keep evoke the defensive strategies of days gone by, whilst the interior rooms retain their period furniture and décor. From the ramparts, the view takes in the Alsace plain on one side and the Vosges mountains on the other, offering an unforgettable perspective on the region’s landscape.

3. Alsace Wine Route — Bas-Rhin section

The Wine Route winds its way through villages with half-timbered façades, flanked by terraced vineyards. The Bas-Rhin section passes through Obernai, Barr and Dambach-la-Ville, essential stops for lovers of heritage and wine-growing. The Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris grape varieties have thrived on these lands for centuries, producing wines renowned worldwide. As you follow this route, you’ll alternate between visits to wine cellars, tastings at the producers’ premises and walks amongst the rows of vines, discovering how the Alsatian terroir shapes each vintage.

These three destinations embody the essence of a holiday in Alsace: architectural history, natural heritage and wine-growing tradition come together in the Bas-Rhin region.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday let in the Bas-Rhin

The Bas-Rhin takes on very different faces depending on the time of year. Each season transforms the department and offers holidays with distinct colours, atmospheres and activities. A holiday let is perfect for any of these times of year, whatever season you choose.

Spring paints the Bas-Rhin in shades of pink and white. The orchards in the north of the department burst into bloom, whilst the first buds carpet the forests of the Vosges. The days grow longer and the temperatures gradually become milder. It’s the ideal time to explore Alsatian villages on foot, stroll along the River Ill or discover the castles perched on the hills, without having to contend with the summer crowds.

Summer brings a warm and sunny atmosphere to the Bas-Rhin. The village terraces fill up, and the wine routes attract curious visitors and music lovers to the open-air festivals. Children make the most of the long days and outdoor activities. It’s the perfect season for swimming in the lakes, hiking in the Vosges mountains or taking part in Alsace’s festive life. Holiday rentals offer great flexibility for organising your days as you go.

Autumn cloaks the vineyards in shades of gold and crimson. The Bas-Rhin becomes the perfect setting for leisurely walks and wine tastings. Temperatures remain mild, prices drop after the summer, and holiday rentals allow you to extend your stay without any hassle. It is also harvest season, the perfect time to sample local produce.

Winter transforms the department into a Christmas scene. Alsatian villages are aglow with lights, Christmas markets bring town centres to life, and the snow, when it falls, dusts the half-timbered roofs. Families appreciate the cosiness of a family holiday let during the festive season. Winter walkers will find the terrain ideal for exploring on snowshoes.

A holiday let remains the ideal option whatever the season: it offers space for young and old alike, the freedom to organise your stay just as you wish, and the comfort of a real home away from home.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in the Bas-Rhin

The Bas-Rhin is home to a wealth of heritage and natural treasures that delight visitors all year round. From medieval architecture listed as a World Heritage Site to mountain walks and hilltop castles, the region offers a delightful blend of culture and nature. Here are three unmissable experiences that deserve a place in your travel diary.

1. Visit Strasbourg’s Grande Île, a medieval quarter listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Strasbourg’s Grande Île is a captivating labyrinth of cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and canals that reflect the colourful façades. This historic quarter, entirely surrounded by the River Ill, exudes medieval authenticity. Notre-Dame Cathedral dominates the scene with its dizzying Gothic architecture, whilst the tranquil squares invite you to stroll at a leisurely pace. Every street corner reveals a shop, a terrace or an architectural detail that tells the story of several centuries of Alsatian history.

Address: Strasbourg, 67000.

2. Hike around Mont Sainte-Odile and a visit to the convent

Mont Sainte-Odile is a major spiritual and natural site, perched at an altitude of 763 metres in the Northern Vosges. The convent, founded in the 7th century, is still home to Benedictine nuns who welcome visitors with serenity. The signposted trails criss-crossing the surrounding area offer spectacular panoramic views over the Alsace plain and the Vosges peaks. The atmosphere, amidst the fir forest and ancient stone, creates a unique meditative experience.

Address: Mont Sainte-Odile, 67530 Ottrott.

3. Exploring the Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park and its fortified castles

The Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park stretches across deep forests, crystal-clear lakes and the ruins of medieval castles overlooking the valleys. This unspoilt area is ideal for family hikes as well as for solitary, contemplative walks. The fortified castles, standing like sentinels, offer spectacular views and bear witness to Alsace’s rich feudal past. The Park Visitor Centre welcomes visitors to help them gain a better understanding of this remarkable ecosystem.

Address: Maison du Parc, 67290 La Petite-Pierre.

Our travellers’ favourite facilities when booking a holiday let in the Bas-Rhin

When choosing a holiday let, travellers place just as much importance on the comfort of the accommodation as on its location. In the Bas-Rhin, the facilities make all the difference between an ordinary stay and a truly restful break. Whether you’re staying for a few days or several weeks, having access to essential facilities guarantees complete relaxation.

• Efficient heating: essential on the outskirts of the Vosges and in winter, so you can fully enjoy the Alsatian landscapes in comfort.
• Fully equipped kitchen: a major asset for preparing your own meals and sampling local produce, from sauerkraut to local wines.
• Wi-Fi connection: stay connected without sacrificing your rest, for families and remote workers alike.
• Washing machine: handy for long stays and family holidays with children.
• Private or secure parking: particularly appreciated in tourist villages and towns where parking space is limited.
• Garden or terrace: an outdoor space to enjoy the fine weather and the tranquillity of Alsace, ideal for families.
• Dishwasher: saves a considerable amount of time, especially when with family or friends.
• Air conditioning or ventilation: a welcome feature during hot summers to maintain a comfortable temperature.
• Television and entertainment: for evenings, particularly in the low season or in the event of bad weather.

A well-equipped accommodation suits whatever type of stay you’re planning, whether you’re a couple on a romantic weekend break, a family on a school holiday, or a group getting together. The right facilities are also those that suit your group size and your overall budget.

What is the average price of a holiday let in the Bas-Rhin?

Prices for holiday rentals in the Bas-Rhin vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between €400 and €700 a week in the low season, and between €600 and €950 during the peak tourist season. A family-sized three- or four-room property tends to cost between €800 and €1,400 a week in the off-season, rising to between €1,200 and €1,900 during peak periods. More spacious or upmarket rentals can easily exceed €2,000 a week in summer.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Location plays a decisive role: a holiday let in the city centre, near Colmar or Strasbourg, or in the tourist villages of the Northern Vosges, commands higher prices than a secluded country house. The length of stay also plays a part: rates are significantly lower on a weekly basis compared to per-night rates, and even lower for a month’s stay. Some owners offer discounts for early bookings or off-season stays.

Seasonality has a major impact on the Alsatian market. Summer and the Christmas market periods attract visitors and drive up prices. Autumn and spring offer better value for money. Before booking, check several listings to compare the facilities on offer and read reviews from other travellers: this is the best way to find accommodation that suits your budget and your preferences.