Obernai Monday

Just back from a wine sampling in the town hall, so here goes with the blog.

After a good night’s sleep, revellers outside notwithstanding, we had a substantial breakfast then walked the suggested route as per the Obernai town map. We passed buildings such as the Belfry, a 60 metre high tower which is all that’s left of a Virgin’s Chapel built at the end of the 13^th century, a Romanesque House, built around 1240, various churches, the Town Hall, built in 1370 and enlarged in 1848, the Corn Exchange, built in 1554 and other beautiful buildings.

We then headed south to visit some other villages, described as pretty villages. “She” directed us along, telling us to turn right. I don’t think so!!

We turned back to the main road and “she” came to her senses and got back on track.

We stopped at Dambach-la- Ville and had another eyeful of attractive painted old buildings. More of the same but still different. It’s amazing how a coat of colour makes such a difference to the render used in the buildings. Some garish colours, but they work. Coffee outside, watching the world go by.

Distracted by another village, Bergheim, off to the side of the road we were going along. So many colourful flower arrangements to brighten up the village.

Got to the village we were heading for, Ribeauville. It deserves being listed in the “100 most beautiful villages in France”. Great decoration on the book shop front.

Final destination for the day was Riquewihr, another attractive and touristy village. Stopped for coffee and ended up providing entertainment for other café patrons and tourists walking past. In his best French, Rick asked one of the other café patrons to take a photo of us with bright coloured buildings in the background. The man took 2 photos, and when Rick looked at them, he said “pas de femme” (no wife). This caused much amusement all around and he took more photos. While this was happening, a lady at the next table was suggesting that we sit together, rather than on opposite sides of the table and all got a bit rowdy. Good fun.

The entrance tower was built in 1291. Unfortunately Rick hasn’t been able to find a tower or belfry to climb in any of the picturesque villages.

Have to mention that we passed the Rue du Cerf, Stag Street.

The village was worth visiting. Our time in and around Obernai was fantastic. This is a photo of the side of our hotel, showing our little bathroom window in the roof, on the far left.