When I read that this trail was “baby carriage accessible,” I had my doubts. In such a hilly area? All 8 miles of it? But from start to finish, it was accessible, for baby carriage, or walkers, or even motorized wheelchairs. The whole family could be out there enjoying this wonderful experience. Hence, I am inspired to get the word out on this trail.
But the hills? Well, if walking up to the start from the Biel train station (which will add an extra couple of kilometers), that first hill is steep. But, if you take the bus to, or park at, the top of this first hill, you not only eliminate that challenge, but also begin with a beautiful view of Lake Biel down below. Thus inspired, the final 35 yards of slight incline to the starting marker is easy. Not only that, the start is along a lovely shaded path, which although not tarmacked, is smooth, hard-packed earthen surface. Subsequent inclines are quite gentle.
What I Learned
Set in central-western Switzerland, with the Alps rising to the east, and the Jura Mountains behind it to the west, this hilly region is surprisingly good when it comes to growing grapes. About 200 hectares of vineyards cover the slopes of the hills in and around Lake Biel. In this bilingual area the name is Lac du Bienne in French.
Trail Name: Chemin du Vignoble (French); OR Rebenweg (German)
Trail Type: Mid-distance; almost exclusively paved, well maintained, and well-marked.
Length: Total: 12.9 kilometers/ 8 miles
Convenient to: Biel, Switzerland
Marking: Marking is the name of the route itself (in German or French) at some intersections; otherwise a gold diamond (with or without a stylized figure of a hiker in black superimposed) indicate you are on a hiking trail. (See featured photograph above.)
Amboise is a delightful town in the Loire River valley. It is also the center of one of the smallest appellations in the area, the Appellation Touraine Amboise Controlee. I finally had a chance to visit!
Amboise has a low-key, country town atmosphere. But there is nothing small about its attractions, which include a magnificent royal chateau, perched high above the river, a compact historical center, and the Clos de Luce, the final home of Leonardo Da Vinci. It is especially photogenic, set as it is along the impressively broad Loire, and against the backdrop of low green hills. Finally, there are the wines, notably the chilled Roses, especially appealing on warm summer days.
What I Learned
The Appellation Touraine Amboise Controlee, is a small appellation, in plots spread out over nine municipalities in and around the old town of Amboise. It covers about 200 hectares/500 acres, off both the left and the right banks of the Loire River.
Trail Name: Entre Vignes et Ramberge
Trail Type: Short distance circuit; almost exclusively paved, well maintained, and fairly well-marked marked.
Length: Total: 8 kilometers/5 miles
Convenient to: Amboise, France
Marking: Wooden plaques identify the trailheads (See above); Yellow lines, straight or bent to indicate direction, below.
Continue reading Entre Vignes et Ramberge: Trail in a Nutshell
