Neuf-Brisach / Strasbourg

This stage runs along the towpath by the Canal du Rhône au Rhin. The way is punctuated by c.20 locks and by characterful churches, such as those at Neunkirch or Eschau, before you reach Strasbourg, one of the European Union’s capital cities and claimed as the No.1 town in France for cycling. Strasbourg also boasts one of the finest old centres on the continent, overseen by an exquisitely decorated cathedral. Thanks to the wealth and density of its heritage, the whole historic centre was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as early as 1988.

Cycle route

Signposts indicate EuroVelo 15 all the way along this stage.
On the stretch up to Artzenheim, the way alternates between quiet roads shared with motorized traffic and dedicated cycle paths. Then it’s a greenway all along the towpath beside the Canal du Rhône au Rhin up to Strasbourg. The surfaces are good all the way. There are lovely shaded sections in the ‘green corridor’ between Artzenheim and Boofzheim.

There are cycle links into Germany at various points.

Tourist information

• Tourist offices at Marckolsheim, +33 (0)3 88 92 56 98
• Rhinau, +33 (0)3 88 74 68 96
• Erstein, +33 (0)3 88 98 14 33
• Strasbourg, +33 (3)88 52 28 28

Don’t miss

Marckolsheim, Musée de la Ligne Maginot (on the northeastern French defences built prior to  World War II) - Friesenheim, Notre-Dame de Neunkirch (a pilgimage church since the 15th century) -Rhinau, Ile de Rhinau nature reserve - Erstein, Maison du Patrimoine (on local heritage) - Strasbourg, the historic centre, including the Petite France quarter; numerous museums; the European Union institutions

Markets

Weekly markets at Marckolsheim, Erstein, Illkirch and Strasbourg

Specialist bicycle services

Specialist bike shops at Marckolsheim, Wittisheim, Friesenheim, Rhinau, Erstein, Plobsheim, Illkirch-Graffenstaden and Strasbourg