‘Fairytale’ town you can get to by train from London in just a few short hours – and it only costs £120
A ‘FAIRYTALE’ town that feels like ‘walking into a Disney movie’ is just a train ride away from London – and it only costs £120.
The cobbled streets of Colmar, in Alsace, France, run either side of idyllic canals lined with vibrant pink cottages and cosy historical taverns – here’s how to get there.
Tourists can visit the picture-perfect town by travelling from London St Pancras International and arrive in less than a day.
Impressed explorers left raving reviews on TripAdvisor, one wrote: “Wonderful! An area that seems taken out of a fairy tale book.”
“An absolute gem of a place”, agreed another.
Someone else commented: “Really nice vacation that takes you back in time to a much simpler time.
“The “Old Town” area of Colmar is very consistent, so you really get a since of walking back in time.”
A fourth said: “A photographers dream! It’s like walking into Disney movie! The whole region is! I literally gasped walking around beautiful corner after corner. Be sure to sit and just enjoy!”
“Many describe it as “fairy tale” looking and I don’t disagree. We found the idyllic ambiance charming, laid back and infectious”, said one happy tourist.
Located nearly 25km away from Germany, the town has a charming combination of French and German architecture, food and markets.
Rows of half-timbered houses remind visitors of storybooks such as Hansel and Gretel, Snow White and Beauty and the Beast.
The cottage-core lovers’ paradise is known for it’s bustling food stalls which offer traditional French cuisine such as foie gras and baeckaoffe.
During the summer months, the ‘gem of Colmar’ is ‘Petite Venise’, or Little Venice, offers adventurers the opportunity to view the town from the water.
On boat rides along the canal, you can make a wish as you sail underneath the Turenne and Saint-Pierre bridges.
In December the markets come alive, with twinkling fairy lights everywhere you look and huge gingerbread decorations among the Christmas trees.
If you fancy wondering about the ‘Disney movie’ streets with something to warm you up, the average cost of a pint is around £7.
History fanatics are also sure to love the region, with houses dating as far back as 1537 such as the Pfister house.
If this holiday destination appeals to you, it is advised to begin your journey with a Eurostar from St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord.
The first part of the expedition will take just under two and a half hours.
Then catch a second train from Paris Gare de l’Est direct to Colmar, which will take another two and a half hours.
Tickets can start from around £120 but quicker trains will cost more and hotels can be as affordable as £55.