Is Saverne a good place to make our headquarters for ancestry, history, and visiting between there and Colmar? Which hotel do you recommend in Saverne? We are a senior couple and will have a car. We plan to spend three nights in the area and like a walkable town or village with shops and restaurants. Ancestors in Weslingen and Schoenburg. Thanks !
Posted by
Vancouver, Washington
298 posts
Did you say, “Saverne”? What?! Head swivel. I don’t think I’ve ever heard Saverne discussed in this forum. That is exactly why I’m going to tell you to go. It is delightfully unfrequented by American tourists that flock to the wine towns further south near Colmar.
Saverne is situated along the Marne au Rhin canal at the beginning of a mountain pass through the Vosges Mountains. The beautiful marina with beer gardens is situated across from the Chateau Rohan. A dramatic double depth lock runs along Rue d’Ecluse bedecked with outdoor bistros and bars making sport of new time canal boaters trying to navigate them. This marks the north end of the Grand Rue pedestrian only central street of Saverne lined with ancient buildings. Find the unicorn statue, the symbol of the city, here. Eat at historic, delicious Taverne Katz along this street too. The Hotel Europe Saverne is probably THE place to stay with rooms around $100. It’s just a few blocks north of the canal, pedestrian only center and within walking distance of the rose gardens (oh yeah, the are known for the rose gardens).
While you’re checking out your heritage, I’d suggest a zig slightly east to checkout the St. Louis - Arziller boat lift along the canal and the historic 17 locks this replaced. Amazing engineering and only a few miles out of your way. Feel free to DM me if you have more specific questions. I really liked my visits to Saverne. Oh my it just hit me! DO NOT leave that area without trying a tarte flambé. Heaven.
Posted by
OP
33 posts
Wow, thank you so much for an amazing response! We will definitely stay in Saverne…and eat a tarte flambe (or several!)