Strasbourg / Soultz-les-Bains
After an unmissable stop in Strasbourg, one of the capitals of the European Union, with its enchanting streets and stunning cathedral, leave the city via the banks of the Ill River and the Canal de la Bruche. Designed by Louis XIV’s engineering genius, Vauban, to transport sandstone blocks from the Vosges Range to Strasbourg, this old canal acts as a guiding thread, taking you through a bucolic natural setting. The way links Strasbourg to Alsace’s Route des Vins (Wine Route) and is a favourite weekend outing for Strasbourg’s inhabitants.
The route
The stretch linking Strasbourg to Soultz-les-Bains has been fully completed and signposted ‘EuroVelo 5’. It joins the canal’s old towpaths after you’ve left Strasbourg via a cycle track beside the Ill River. This stretch is ideal for families. Do be aware that, along certain parts, the people living in the houses beside the canal are allowed access to the towpath in motorized vehicles, but only going very slowly.
Gradients and elevation
Road types
Surface
Don’t miss
- Strasbourg: Notre Dame Cathedral; European Quarter; Petite France Quarter; La Neustadt Quarter; the many museums around Strasbourg.
- Kolbsheim: Château de Kolbsheim and its jardin remarquable.
- Avolsheim: Church of Le Dompeter.
