Best Western Hotel & SPA Le Schoenenbourg

The hotel's modern exterior is less picturesque than nearby half-timbered houses lining Riquewihr's streets, but medieval charm is just a few minutes' walk. Wrapped by vineyards forming the world-famous Alsace wine route, the property is well-placed, both for town wandering and countryside exploring. Bright interiors in neutral-tone woods and tiling are generic in the lobby, while the carpeted breakfast room with red linens is dated but still cozy. Many rooms follow the same old-fashioned decor approach, though others were renovated in 2015 and are far more contemporary and appealing. Spa renovations are due for completion in 2018, but until then, a nice (seasonal) outdoor pool gets the sun. Having fueled up at the morning buffet, guests mostly spend their days exploring, although you might spot the odd couple grabbing a night cap from the bar's well-priced selection.

The hotel occupies a prime spot, a two-minute walk from the picturesque walled town of Riquewihr. Charming 15th- and 16th-century buildings line cobbled streets here, and they're packed with regional restaurants, wine shops, and stores selling locally produced goods. Busses from here run to nearby villages, but a vehicle is recommended for farther destinations. Known for their wines and picturesque layouts, the towns of Ribeauville, Colmar and Kayesberg are all within a 20-minute drive. Reconstructed 12th-century Haut Koenigsbourg Castle is a 27-minute drive. It's an hour by car for the city of Strasbourg. Both Basel Mulhouse and Strasbourg Airports are a 45-minute drive.

Bright rooms come in many categories, and range from 172-square-foot (16-square-meter) Comforts, to 258-square-foot (24-square-meter) Superiors. Those refurbished in 2015 are outfitted in a cheerful, contemporary blend of light-wood flooring and furniture, white walls, and bright-pink bedrunners, throw pillows, and lamps. Older rooms, meanwhile, have dated blond wood wall paneling and furniture, green carpet, and photographs of nature, but they're well-presented and clean. Amenities include phones, large cable flat-screen TVs, AC, safes, desks, and minibars, plus kettles for tea- and coffee-making. Suites have living rooms with sofas, and Family Rooms have two rooms for sleeping up to four. Bathrooms with showers or shower/tub combos are bright, although follow the same old-fashioned or contemporary look as the adjacent bedrooms. All have toiletries, towels, and hairdryers. Note, third-floor rooms are only reached by stairs. Parking lot, Riquewihr, or vineyard views vary in their pleasantness, but all rooms are quiet. All can be fitted with cribs.

Despite lacking a full restaurant, this Best Western offers a good range of amenities for leisure travelers. The breakfast room has both indoor and outdoor seating, and serves a buffet (fee) of scrambled or boiled eggs, fresh breads and pastries with jams, and an array of local cheeses, meats, cereals, yogurts, and fresh fruits. Tea, coffee, and juice are also provided. Cheaper "express" options are available. The bar has a selection of Alsace wines, beer, spirits, and soft drinks, alongside coffee and snacks. Open May through September, the outdoor pool's loungers and umbrellas offer sun and shade, and though unheated, waters are generally fine in summer. Partially closed for renovations until 2018, the wellness offerings include an indoor pool, sauna and steam facilities, and a gym. A massage room will also open in 2018. A meeting room with basic equipment holds 20 people, and a lobby computer is free to use. Electric bike rentals are available. On-site outdoor parking is free, while secured parking requires a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout.