The Via Romea Francigena in Alsace-Moselle – EuroVelo 5

The Via Romea Francigena, or Francigene Roman Way, is a historic route that has linked Canterbury to Rome for 2,000 years. At its peak in the Middle Ages, this pilgrimage route became increasingly important as it was used for trade. From the 18th century onwards, however, it was gradually forgotten as new communication routes were developed. The Via Francigena was revived in 1994 when the Council of Europe certified it as a Cultural Route.

Although popular with hikers, the route was also developed into a 3,200-kilometre (1,988 mi) cycle route. The result is the EuroVelo 5, a cycle route with plenty of European flair that passes through seven countries – three more than the original route.

In France, the EuroVelo 5 crosses Alsace and Moselle. In this Collection, I present this 390-kilometre (242 mi) section between Sarreguemines and Basel in six stages.

The first two days cruise along the water, following the canals that lead to Strasbourg. As the European capital, and with its medieval architecture, the city is a perfect symbol of the route's modern yet historic character. Stages 3 to 5 take you away from the water's edge to join the Véloroute du vignoble d'Alsace. Over the course of three days, you'll discover a number of charming Alsatian villages, interspersed with beautiful undulating paths through the vineyards. On the last day, you’ll return to the Rhine plain and its rivers, ending your journey in Basel. In this city at the crossroads of France, Germany and Switzerland, you'll once again experience the grandeur of European history.

The metropolis has good transport connections. Even though Sarreguemines is a smaller town, it has a railway station with links to Strasbourg and Saarbrücken in Germany.

EuroVelo 5 is a perfectly laid-out route on which you'll have no trouble finding accommodation or supplies. You can travel light on any type of bike. Don't forget to take tools with you for repairs and to fix a puncture.

You can do this adventure from April to November. Avoid winter, which can be harsh in Alsace. Personally, I'd recommend autumn, when the Alsatian vineyards are at their most beautiful.

All that's left for you to do is give your bike a final overhaul and you'll be ready to ride in the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims who crossed Europe from north to south. Bon voyage!