Around 610, expelled from Luxeuil, Saint Colomban and the Irish monks were taken to Nantes under the guard of armed soldiers who were in charge of taking them on a ship to Ireland. But, barely on board, they managed to escape and, fearing they would be caught, began an incredible journey through many countries. Most of the journey into exile takes place in France from East to West and then back again after Nantes. The itinerary mainly follows the great rivers and the vineyards often planted on their banks while crossing the historic cities that mark them out. From Lauterbourg to Basel, the 209 km route crosses the Grand Est Region in 8 stages with an average of 25 km per day.