Laurène Philippot

Laurène is the blog's creator. Originally from Brittany but now living in Alsace, she has fallen in love with her adopted region and loves exploring its every nook and cranny to unearth great ideas to share with you!

Articles

Swimming in the Rhine, splashing around in the fountains: summer life in Basel
By Laurène Philippot

There’s one image of Basel that’s always stuck in my mind: seeing Basel locals sitting in their swimsuits, drinks in hand, deep in conversation… in a fountain downtown. Or watching them float down the Rhine, a funny fish-shaped bag tucked against them. No, you’re not dreaming: in Basel, swimming is part of everyday summer life, […]

Kaysersberg Christmas Market: 2026 Dates, Hours, and Top Picks
By Laurène Philippot

All the 2026 dates for the Kaysersberg Christmas Market, its hours, top spots, and my insider tips as a local to help you enjoy it stress-free.

From the Rhône to the Rhine by Bike: A Leisurely Loop Between Neuf-Brisach and Artzenheim (30 km)
By Laurène Philippot

Are you looking for an easy bike ride with no hills, mostly in the shade, and no traffic? The “From the Rhône to the Rhine—Northern Section” loop, which connects Neuf-Brisach to Artzenheim along the canal, checks all those boxes. I tried it out on a scorching hot day, and that’s exactly why I wanted to […]

Visit Breisach am Rhein, a German town across the river from Neuf-Brisach
By Laurène Philippot

A visit to Breisach am Rhein (Vieux-Brisach) makes for a lovely cross-border getaway, best combined with a visit to its French neighbor, Neuf-Brisach. Separated by the Rhine, these two towns complement each other: one is a historic town perched on a hill, the other a flat citadel fortified by Vauban. Follow the guide to discover […]

Visiting the Maison d’Illusion in Wissembourg: My Review!
By Laurène Philippot

If you’re looking for a unique activity to do in northern Alsace, I’ve found a surprising place that will really get your brain working! Head to the charming town of Wissembourg to discover the Maison d’Illusion, a small private museum that opened its doors in 2025. The essentials at a glance Video Preview of the […]

Electric bike on the Wine Route: loop from Kaysersberg (44km)
By Laurène Philippot

Looking for the perfect itinerary to discover the postcards of Alsace? Look no further! I’m taking you on a cycling tour of the Wine Route from Kaysersberg. A 44 km route on an electric bike (VAE) rented from Alsa Cyclo Tours, between medieval villages, vineyard panoramas and gourmet breaks. Video preview of the bike loop […]

Visit the Petite Camargue Alsacienne nature reserve
By Laurène Philippot

If you’re looking for an idea for a rejuvenating walk in Alsace, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, I’ve got just the place for you. Nestled in the south of the region, in the Pays de Saint-Louis, the Petite Camargue Alsacienne is a nugget of biodiversity. Spanning 904 hectares, this national nature […]

Hiking tips in the Steinbach Valley, from Niedersteinbach to Obersteinbach
By Laurène Philippot

If you’re looking for a bucolic break from the hustle and bustle, head for the far north of Alsace. Here, in the heart of the Vosges du Nord Regional Nature Park, lies the pretty Steinbach Valley. Today, I’d like to take you on a tour linking the villages of Niedersteinbach and Obersteinbach. With its pink […]

Hiking from Climbronn to the Chemin des Cimes Alsace
By Laurène Philippot

If you’re looking for an out-of-the-ordinary, kid-friendly walk in the Vosges du Nord Regional Nature Park, I’ve got a suggestion for you. Starting from the village of Climbach, the Climbronn circuit offers an interesting combination of mystical ruins, impressive remnants of the Maginot Line and spectacular views from the Chemin des Cimes. Follow me on […]