Ep 3. France's Alsace

Rick Steves' Classics season 1 episode 3 explores the charming region of Alsace in France. Located in the northeastern part of the country, Alsace is known for its picturesque villages, half-timbered houses, and vineyards.

The episode starts with Rick in Colmar, a small town that is considered the capital of the Alsatian wine region. As Rick wanders through the town's winding streets, he admires the colorful buildings and Gothic-style churches. He also stops at a local bakery to try a traditional Alsatian pastry called kougelhopf, which is a sweet yeast cake with raisins and almonds.

Next, Rick visits the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, a medieval fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking the Rhine Valley. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was restored in the early 20th century. Rick takes a tour of the castle and learns about its fascinating history, including its use as a strategic military post during World War I.

The episode then takes viewers to the town of Riquewihr, which is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. The town's well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow streets are a testament to its rich history. Rick explores the town's charming shops, including a family-owned winery that has been producing Alsatian wine for generations.

Moving on, Rick visits the town of Strasbourg, which is the capital of the Alsace region and home to the European Parliament. Rick takes a boat tour of the city's canals and marvels at the stunning architecture that blends German and French influences. He also visits the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, which is known for its intricate Gothic design and stunning stained glass windows.

Another highlight of the episode is a visit to the Alsace Wine Route, a scenic road that winds through the region's vineyards and picturesque villages. Rick stops at a local winery to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the region's renowned white wines, including Riesling and Gewürztraminer.

Finally, Rick visits the town of Mulhouse, which is known for its industrial heritage. He tours the Cité de l'Automobile, a museum that showcases more than 400 vintage cars from around the world. Rick learns about the history of the automobile and its impact on society, and even gets a chance to drive a classic Citroën car.

Overall, Rick Steves' Classics season 1 episode 3 provides viewers with a delightful tour of France's Alsace region. From charming villages to stunning castles and world-class wine, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful corner of France.