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Grand Canal d'Alsace: A feat of engineering and natural beauty

Discover the Grand Canal d'Alsace: A marvel of engineering offering scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and a glimpse into Alsatian culture.

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The Grand Canal d'Alsace is a 50-kilometer waterway in eastern France that channels the Upper Rhine river, providing navigation between Basel, Switzerland, and the North Sea. Built between 1932 and 1959, it serves to improve navigation, generate hydroelectric power, and supply water to industrial facilities.

A brief summary to Grand Canal d'Alsace

  • FR

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or fall for the most beautiful landscapes and pleasant weather.
  • Bring a bike to explore the scenic trails along the canal.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, surrounded by nature.
  • Check local schedules for boat tours to experience the canal from the water.
  • Keep your camera handy for stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Colmar, take a train to Colmar train station. From there, transfer to regional bus line 107 towards Neuf-Brisach. Get off at the 'Neuf-Brisach' stop, a short walk from the canal. A single train ticket from Strasbourg to Colmar costs approximately €4.30. A bus ticket will cost a few euros.

  • Driving

    If driving from Colmar, head north on the N83 towards Mulhouse. Take the exit towards D430 and follow signs for Grand Canal d'Alsace, near Neuf-Brisach. Parking is available in the area, but street parking might be limited. There are parking at the lock of the Grand Canal d'Alsace in Rosenau.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in nearby cities like Strasbourg and Colmar. From Strasbourg-Ville Train Station to the city center costs €9 during the day and €10 at night. A taxi from Strasbourg Airport to the city center is around €32 during the day and €35 at night. Taxi fares in Strasbourg have a base fee of €3, with a cost per kilometer of €1.86 during the day and €2.64 at night.

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Discover more about Grand Canal d'Alsace

The Grand Canal d'Alsace, a remarkable feat of engineering, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the desire to harness nature's power. This 50-kilometer canal, completed in 1959, is a vital waterway that channels the Upper Rhine River, providing a navigable route for barges traveling between Basel, Switzerland, and the North Sea. Originally conceived in 1922 and initiated in 1932, the canal addresses the challenges posed by the Rhine's shallows and strong currents, which historically hindered upstream traffic to Strasbourg. The canal project also aimed to generate hydroelectric power, a vision that has been successfully realized with power plants at Kembs, Ottmarsheim, Fessenheim, and Vogelgrun. These plants supply electricity to the industrialized region and provide essential cooling water to the Fessenheim nuclear power plant. Beyond its functional importance, the Grand Canal d'Alsace offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Alsace region. The canal's banks are ideal for leisurely strolls, cycling, and hiking, with well-maintained trails that wind along the water's edge. Picturesque villages dot the landscape, inviting travelers to explore the local heritage and traditions. The calm waters are also perfect for boat rides, providing a unique perspective on the surrounding scenery. The Rhine islands, located between the Grand Canal and the Rhine river, have become outstanding migration sites for water birds. The area is a haven for diverse wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and photography.

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