Colmar to Newcastle Road Trip: Scenic Drive Across Europe

The drive from Colmar, in the heart of Alsace, to Newcastle upon Tyne, a historic northern English city, spans about 800 km (500 miles). The most efficient route takes you via the A35, A4, A26, and A1, crossing into Belgium and then taking the Channel Tunnel or ferry from Calais to Dover. This journey weaves through four countries—France, Belgium, the UK, and a brief stint in Luxembourg if you choose the A31 detour.

A little-known fact: the section of the A26 between Reims and Calais is built on the ancient Roman road Via Agrippa, used for troop movements. Today, it offers smooth tarmac but can be monotonous, so planning stops is key.

From Colmar, take the A35 north towards Strasbourg. Continue on the A4 towards Metz, then the A31 briefly into Luxembourg. Switch to the A26 towards Reims, then the A1/A16 to Calais. Total tolls in France: approximately €35-€40. The Channel Tunnel costs around £80-£120 depending on booking time.

Fuel costs: Expect to pay around €80-€100 for petrol for the entire trip, assuming a car that does 40 mpg. Diesel cars may save 20%. Fuel stations are plentiful but become sparse between Reims and Calais in the countryside.

• Toll roads: A35 (free), A4 (toll), A26 (toll), A1 (toll in France).
• Fuel types: 95 unleaded (SP95) and diesel (Gazole) widely available.
• Speed limits: 130 km/h on French motorways, 120 km/h in rain.
• Channel Tunnel: vehicles must check in 30 minutes early; pets allowed with health certificate.

Road quality is excellent on French motorways, with well-lit tunnels and regular toll booths. In Belgium, the A1 is also well-maintained. UK roads can be narrow near Dover; drive on the left.

Family-friendly stops: Parc Astérix (near Paris, detour), Cité de la Mer in Calais (interactive submarine exhibits), and the Tate Britain in Newcastle (family-friendly art).

• Rest areas: Aire de la Pointe du Hoc (history), Aire de Ternynck (picnic tables).
• Fatigue management: Take breaks every 2 hours. Sleep at Ibis Budget Reims or a charming B&B in Arras.
• Pet-friendly: Most motorway rest areas have dog-walking areas. In Reims, Café du Palais allows dogs on the terrace.

Hidden off-route spots: The abandoned village of Haraucourt (south of Reims) is a 5-minute detour. Also, the Château de Sedan (largest medieval castle in Europe) is 20 km off the A34.

For more detail on finding hidden gems, check out: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The geography shifts dramatically. From the vineyards of Alsace (around Colmar), you climb to the Vosges foothills, then cross the flat plains of Champagne. The Ardennes region near Reims offers forested hills, before descending to the Flanders lowlands and the white cliffs of Dover.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the route: Strasbourg's Grande Île (detour 30 min), Reims Cathedral (directly on route), and the Historic Centre of Brugge (50 km detour).

• Alsace Wine Route: Start early for a vineyard view.
• Champagne region: Stop at Épernay for Avenue de Champagne.
• Ardennes: Mont Saint-Jean forest for a quick hike.
• Belgian coast: De Panne beach for a break before the ferry.

Local commerce: In Colmar, buy Alsatian sausages or kougelhopf. Near Reims, pick up biscuits roses de Reims. In England, stop at a farm shop for Wensleydale cheese.