As tourism booms across Europe’s better-known hotspots, leading to fake closed signs from locals, savvy travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that combine a visual wow factor with hidden gem status to enjoy a perfect holiday.
A third of Brits admit to being inspired by social media in their travel, and a huge 52% of travellers say they’ve made plans to visit a specific destination based on an image or video they saw on social media. But, according to Contiki, a holiday needs to include a hidden gem to be ‘considered perfect’
In recent years, Colmar, France, has experienced a surge in popularity due to its resemblance to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. However, French River cruise operator European Waterways has revealed two lesser-known gems that also inspired Disney’s animators, yet have retained that hidden-gem popularity.
Located 20 minutes from Colmar, both Eguisheim and Riquewihr are hidden fairy-tale gems in the wine-making region of Alsace, also home to the viral and picture-perfect Colmar.
Not only were they visited by Disney’s animated, but they’re both members of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France – or The Most Beautiful Villages in France
Maryanne Sparkes, French Rivercruise expert at European Waterways, explains their beauty. “Eguisheim’s secret lies in its unique layout — concentric circles of narrow lanes surround a central château, each lined with meticulously preserved half-timbered houses. This design, dating back to the 13th century, is rare in Europe and creates a magical village atmosphere, amplified by vibrant window boxes bursting with blooms in spring and summer.
Local laws strictly protect the village’s architectural heritage, meaning no building façade can be changed without official permission. This careful preservation maintains Eguisheim’s medieval character, which helped it win the title of “France’s favourite village” in 2013.”
“A slightly different, but equally beautiful Riquewihr is a medieval fortress frozen in time by local experts. Only five kilometres from Eguisheim, Riquewihr charms visitors with its intact defensive walls, cobbled alleys, and medieval watchtowers.
Riquewihr’s houses, some dating from the 16th century, are remarkable for their traditional painted wooden facades, decorated with geometric patterns and floral motifs. Walking through its narrow streets feels like entering a living museum, especially during the Christmas market season when fairy lights twinkle on every corner.”
“Despite their proximity to Colmar — which attracts thousands every day — Eguisheim and Riquewihr remain delightfully under-visited. They provide the perfect alternative for travellers wanting fairy-tale charm without the crowds, plus easy access to world-class Alsace wines and local gastronomy.