Sélestat

Nestled in the heart of Alsace, between the Vosges mountains and the Ried plain, Sélestat is just forty minutes from Strasbourg.
Sélestat is a city rich in history and culture, and its exceptional built heritage makes it the 3rd largest city in Alsace, after Strasbourg and Colmar. The town boasts five listed buildings and thirty buildings registered as Monuments Historiques, including the 12th-century Romanesque church of Sainte-Foy, the 13th-15th-century Gothic church of Saint-Georges and the Humanist Library. The award of the Ville d?Art et d?Histoire label brings Selestadian heritage the recognition it deserves.
So it's hardly surprising to come across giant's strides or lion's paws as you explore the town. The giant steps are those of the giant Sletto, who legend has it founded the town of Sélestat and gave it his name. As for his four-legged companion, it's a nod to the lion that adorns the town's coat of arms. Don't miss the tanners? quarter, with its typical half-timbered houses and pointed roofs.
Another long-standing story is that of Sélestat?s Christmas tree, preserved in a register of the town?s accounts. Dated 1521, this is the oldest known written reference to the Christmas tree in the world.
Sélestat also boasts an important natural heritage, with the Domaine de l'Ill*Wald. A regional reserve where you can observe the largest population of wild fallow deer in France, sail on the Ill in a kayak or stroll along the trails.
You'll also be amazed by the town's artistic heritage, with its annual festivals (Rock Your Brain Fest, Summer Vibration Festival, etc.) and events such as the Corso Fleuri in August, the Carnaval des Machores in February and Sélest'Art, a contemporary art biennial.
In short, Sélestat is a town full of charm and history, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a perfect blend of culture, nature and gastronomy, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Alsace.
No wonder Sélestat was ranked 15th most welcoming city in France at Booking.com's Traveler Review Awards 2023