RDAU_10-11_Oct_Nov Issue

France, Alsatian France, Alsa- tian Beauty and Canal Side Charms Traveling northward brings visitors into the sunlit landscapes of France and the vibrant Alsatian port city of Strasbourg. Nestled between rolling hillside vineyards and the Rhine plain, Strasbourg represents the cultural heartbeat of the Alsace region. The historic core of the city, known as the Grande Ile, is surrounded entirely by the tranquil waters of the Ill River, cre- ating an intimate island setting that is effortless to explore on foot. Strasbourg is an absolute joy to discover at a relaxed pace. Cobble- stone streets wind past centuries old half-timbered houses adorned with overflowing geranium boxes. Along the water in the district of Petite France, historic mills and traditional tanner homes reflect on the gentle ripples of the canals. Rising above the rooftops is the soaring Gothic cathe- dral, crafted from pink Vosges sand- stone, an architectural marvel whose astronomical clock and delicate stone lace leave every traveller in awe. Germany, Sunlit Cellars and Imperial History Just across the river lies Germany, beginning with the welcoming gate- way town of Breisach. Situated near the Black Forest, Breisach is home to Europe largest wine cellars, housing more than one hundred and sixty million litres of fine vintages. Tower- ing over the city and visible from the river is the Romanesque and Gothic cathedral of Saint Stephen, whose twin towers have watched over Rhine travellers since the twelfth century. Further downstream rests historic Speyer, home to an imperial Roman- esque cathedral that holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Within its quiet crypts rest eight German emperors and kings, echoing the grandeur of the Holy Roman Empire. Speyer holds an equally profound place in continen- tal history, as it was here during the historic Diet of Speyer in 1529 that the protestation occurred that gave rise to the term Protestant. Continuing into the wine re- gion of the Rheingau, travellers reach Rüdesheim, famous for its golden Riesling wines and convivial reader ’ s digest 20   OctOber/NOvember 2026