The Route des Crêtes in the Vosges
The Route des Crêtes is one of the most beautiful routes in the Vosges mountains.
This legendary route, traced at an altitude of over 1,200 metres, offers spectacular landscapes between peaks, pine forests as far as the eye can see and breathtaking views of the Vosges valleys.
Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, a nature lover or simply looking to escape, this route is ideal for discovering the Vosges.
Built during the First World War to ensure the connection between French troops, the Route des Crêtes now extends over nearly 88 kilometres, between Cernay (Haut-Rhin) and Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines.
This route runs along the Vosges ridge line and crosses several exceptional natural sites, preserved within the Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park.
All along the route, you can admire the panoramas that follow one another with breathtaking views of the Alsace Plain, the Black Forest and even the Swiss Alps on a clear day.
The highest point of the massif with its altitude of 1,424 meters, the Grand Ballon is a key stage of the Route des Crêtes.
Accessible by car, it offers a breathtaking view. Take a look at the orientation table on site to identify the surrounding peaks.
With its 1,363 meters, the Hohneck is one of the most emblematic peaks of the route.
Come and admire the magnificent panorama that extends over the Vosges, the Alsatian plain and the distant mountains.
It is also a privileged place to observe the chamois at sunrise and the Vosges cows.
Le Markstein and the Col de la Schlucht are must-see places if you are a sports enthusiast.
In winter, these resorts are transformed into ski areas, while in summer, they become a playground for hikers, cyclists and paragliders.
Lac Blanc
Another spot to discover is Lac Blanc, near the Col des Bagenelles. While in winter, the site is transformed into a Nordic ski area, in summer, it is particularly appreciated for its many activities such as a bike park, an adventure park, a barefoot trail and of course many hikes.
The view of the lake is worth the detour!
The Route des Crêtes can be visited all year round, but each season gives it a unique atmosphere.
Don't forget to stop at one of the many farm inns to enjoy a marcaire meal.
The Hotel La Palette in Wettolsheim is the ideal starting point to discover the Vosges mountains.
Drop off your bags in our hotel-restaurant nestled in the heart of the vineyards, on the wine route, in a magnificent wooded park.
Enjoy the comfort and calm of our 16 rooms and admire the view of the Vosges ridge.
After your getaway on the Route des Crêtes, enjoy our restaurant labeled Maître Restaurateur to taste creative and seasonal cuisine. The menu changes every month to highlight the flavors of the moment.
Our hotel also provides picnic baskets for your excursions to be reserved the day before as well as free private parking.
You will also find some typical Alsatian products in our shop.
This legendary route, traced at an altitude of over 1,200 metres, offers spectacular landscapes between peaks, pine forests as far as the eye can see and breathtaking views of the Vosges valleys.
Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, a nature lover or simply looking to escape, this route is ideal for discovering the Vosges.
A historic route in the heart of the Vosges
Built during the First World War to ensure the connection between French troops, the Route des Crêtes now extends over nearly 88 kilometres, between Cernay (Haut-Rhin) and Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines.
This route runs along the Vosges ridge line and crosses several exceptional natural sites, preserved within the Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park.
All along the route, you can admire the panoramas that follow one another with breathtaking views of the Alsace Plain, the Black Forest and even the Swiss Alps on a clear day.
The must-sees of the Route des Crêtes
Le Grand Ballon
The highest point of the massif with its altitude of 1,424 meters, the Grand Ballon is a key stage of the Route des Crêtes.
Accessible by car, it offers a breathtaking view. Take a look at the orientation table on site to identify the surrounding peaks.
Le Hohneck
With its 1,363 meters, the Hohneck is one of the most emblematic peaks of the route.
Come and admire the magnificent panorama that extends over the Vosges, the Alsatian plain and the distant mountains.
It is also a privileged place to observe the chamois at sunrise and the Vosges cows.
Le Markstein and La Schlucht
Le Markstein and the Col de la Schlucht are must-see places if you are a sports enthusiast.
In winter, these resorts are transformed into ski areas, while in summer, they become a playground for hikers, cyclists and paragliders.
Lac Blanc
Another spot to discover is Lac Blanc, near the Col des Bagenelles. While in winter, the site is transformed into a Nordic ski area, in summer, it is particularly appreciated for its many activities such as a bike park, an adventure park, a barefoot trail and of course many hikes.
The view of the lake is worth the detour!
The Route des Crêtes can be visited all year round, but each season gives it a unique atmosphere.
Don't forget to stop at one of the many farm inns to enjoy a marcaire meal.
Stay in Alsace near Colmar
The Hotel La Palette in Wettolsheim is the ideal starting point to discover the Vosges mountains.
Drop off your bags in our hotel-restaurant nestled in the heart of the vineyards, on the wine route, in a magnificent wooded park.
Enjoy the comfort and calm of our 16 rooms and admire the view of the Vosges ridge.
After your getaway on the Route des Crêtes, enjoy our restaurant labeled Maître Restaurateur to taste creative and seasonal cuisine. The menu changes every month to highlight the flavors of the moment.
Our hotel also provides picnic baskets for your excursions to be reserved the day before as well as free private parking.
You will also find some typical Alsatian products in our shop.
