Strasbourg

For many a year I have wanted to visit the City of Strasbourg ( a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and in July this year I finally made a short visit which I so enjoyed.

The history of the city bouncing back and fore between France and Germany has blended German down-to-earthiness with French finesse and with its unspoilt beauty, charm and “laid-back” feel I was immediately relaxed as I wondered round cobbled squares, winding narrow streets and by canals.  I found Petite France particularly interesting with so many lovely buildings to look at (a lot of half timbered houses).  Notre-Dame Cathedral was ever so fascinating, you just had to stop and stare at it with so many skinny spires, buttresses and gargoyles – just a Gothic giant. 

The receptionist at our hotel had recommended the Maison Kammerzell by the cathedral to eat and we had a wonderful dinner there and at the same time watched with delight the lighting display to a classical soundtrack on this unique cathedral building.  There are lots of canalised cafes, restaurants and traditional winstubs (wine taverns).

By bike, boat and trams are a good way of seeing round this vibrant University City.

Further afield you have the Alsace and Lorraine Regions to discover and also the Vosges mountains where The Grand Ballon is the highest at 1424m.

14^th July 2013