Colmar by day

Colmar is a delightful little town in the Alsace, close to the German border. We were visiting for a couple of days, staying near the old quarter of the town, known as ‘little Venice’.

It’s full of colourful half timbered houses and beautiful cobblestone lanes. Bakeries line the streets, their gorgeous aromas filling the air, whilst pretty little sweet shops, and cheese and charcuterie shops—selling local produce—bring extra colour to the alleyways. There are also an abundance of delightful little restaurants and cafés.

After taking in the atmosphere, we took a wander along to the market, which was alive with locals and tourists, buying pretty little souvenirs or something tasty for later. I found some cherries soaked in vanilla, which I plan to take home and serve with some homemade ice cream, or possibly a chocolate mousse.

We then decided on a trip around the town, on the little green train that’s a great way for you to see all the sights. There was a recorded guide to listen to on the way round which offered some fascinating facts about the town.

For instance, the half timbered medieval and renaissance houses demonstrated the wealth of their owners by using carefully shaped oak beams, and hand-cut patterns with complicated joints. These features were only attainable by people that could afford the best craftsmen.

It’s such a beautiful, chocolate box, town.