Forming part of the Alsace Wine Route, Kaysersberg is nestled on the eastern slope of the Vosges Mountains. It lies just a few kilometres from France’s border with Germany and has been handed back and forth between the two countries over the centuries. Kaysersberg translates as “Emperor’s Mountain”, with the townscape dominated by a granite-built castle that was of strategic importance to the Holy Roman Empire.
Things to do in Kaysersberg-Vignoble
One of Kaysersberg’s most important landmarks is the Château de Schlossberg, a ruined castle designated as a Monument Historique. It was originally constructed in the 13th century for one of Frederick II’s bailiffs and played an important role in securing the routes leading across the Vosges Mountains. From the top of the castle’s circular keep, there are magnificent views across Kaysersberg.
A short walk away is the Musee Albert-Schweitzer, which occupies the birthplace of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning musicologist and doctor. Learn about his life in Alsace and Gabbon as you browse the personal artefacts on display, alongside travel mementos and handwritten letters. The museum can be accessed by crossing the 16th-century Pont Fortifie, which spans the Weiss River.
If you’re interested in the region’s wine-making traditions, pay a visit to the Musee du Vignoble et des Vins d’Alsace. It occupies the historic Château de la Confrerie Saint-Etienne and features exhibits detailing all stages of the wine-making process. Learn about the winemakers of the past or get recommendations for cellar doors to visit in the surrounding region.
Getting around Kaysersberg-Vignoble
Kaysersberg is a 20-minute drive from Colmar and an hour from Strasbourg. Strasbourg Airport is also an hour away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Buses travel to Kaysersberg and the town is small enough to explore on foot.