Bergheim is a medieval village in Alsace, nestled between Ribeauvillé and Sélestat on the famous Wine Route. Its 14th-century ramparts, almost entirely preserved, encircle a historic centre of half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and a Gothic church. Less crowded than Riquewihr or Colmar, it offers an authentic atmosphere and an ideal gateway to the Upper Rhine vineyards.

Practical information at a glance

• Access: village accessible by car from Colmar (approximately 20 km north) or Sélestat (approximately 15 km south) via the D1b (Wine Route).
• Transport: bus stop on the line connecting Colmar to Ribeauvillé; nearest train stations at Ribeauvillé or Sélestat.
• Entry: village is freely accessible; rampart viewing is free.
• Recommended duration: 1 to 2 hours for the village; half-day combining vineyards and surroundings.
• Dress code: no particular restrictions; comfortable shoes recommended for cobblestones.

What to see

The village preserves virtually its entire medieval enclosure, with several towers including the Executioner's Tower, the most emblematic. Inside the ramparts, the colorful half-timbered houses largely date from the 15th and 16th centuries. The Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, in Rhineland Gothic style, dominates the central square. The vines of the Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim extend immediately east of the village.

History and context

Bergheim received city rights in the 13th century and joined the Alsatian Decapolis, a league of ten imperial cities. Its ramparts were erected primarily in the 14th century under the Habsburgs. The village is notably associated with one of the last major witch trials in Alsace, in the 17th century, which claimed dozens of victims. This history is today documented in a small local museum dedicated to the subject.

Highlights of your visit

The ramparts and the Executioner's Tower

The partial rampart walkway allows you to follow the enclosure and observe the watchtowers. The Executioner's Tower, which served as a prison, is the best-preserved and most photographed tower in the village.

The Upper Gate

The main medieval entrance to the village, the Upper Gate (or Obertor) marks the central axis of Bergheim. It perfectly frames the main street and its half-timbered houses within a single visual field.

The Altenberg de Bergheim vineyard

This Alsatian Grand Cru, planted on an argillaceous limestone slope, produces principally gewurztraminer and riesling. Several wine estates in the village offer tastings; inquire directly with local producers.

The Museum of Witchcraft

A museum space retraces the witch trials that marked Bergheim in the 17th century. Sober and well-documented, it sheds light on a dark chapter of Alsatian history often overlooked.

Photography tips

Morning light is ideal for photographing the Upper Gate without backlighting. From the vineyards to the east, in late afternoon, the village and its ramparts stand out against the forested hills of the Vosges. In autumn, the colors of the vines add extra depth to your compositions.

Location and access

Bergheim is located in the Upper Rhine (Alsace), between Ribeauvillé to the north and Sélestat to the south, on the Alsace Wine Route. By car, it is approximately 20 minutes from Colmar. The village is flat inside the ramparts; accessibility for those with reduced mobility is reasonable on main thoroughfares, though secondary cobbled streets can be challenging.

Nearby attractions

• Ribeauvillé — neighboring medieval village with three ruined castles overlooking the vineyards.
• Riquewihr — one of the most visited villages in Alsace, a few kilometers to the south, famous for its Renaissance houses.
• Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg — restored medieval fortress, visible from Bergheim's vineyards.
• Sélestat — humanist town with a remarkable humanist library and lively market.
• Colmar — capital of Alsatian wines, featuring Little Venice and the Unterlinden Museum.