Rte des Crêtes: A Panoramic Journey Through the Vosges
Discover breathtaking panoramic views, historical landmarks, and outdoor adventures along the Route des Crêtes, a scenic road through the heart of the Vosges Mountains.
The Route des Crêtes, a historic road tracing the ridge of the Vosges Mountains, offers breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through significant historical sites. Built during World War I for strategic military purposes, it now serves as a scenic route for tourists, connecting Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines to Cernay. Along the way, discover stunning vistas, including the Black Forest and the Alps on clear days, and explore landmarks like the Grand Ballon, Hohneck, and Hartmannswillerkopf. Whether you're hiking, driving, or cycling, the Route des Crêtes promises an unforgettable experience immersed in nature and history. Be mindful of seasonal closures during winter months due to snow, and plan your visit accordingly to fully enjoy this iconic route.
A brief summary to Rte des Crêtes
- La Bresse, 88250, FR
Local tips
- Check road conditions and closures, especially during winter, as parts of the Route des Crêtes may be inaccessible due to snow.
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Wear layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack for both sunshine and potential rain or wind.
- Stop at local fermes-auberges for authentic regional cuisine and a taste of Vosges hospitality.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views from various points along the route.
Getting There
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Driving
From La Bresse, follow the D48 towards the Route des Crêtes. The road is well-signposted. Parking is available at various viewpoints and hiking trailheads along the route, such as near the Hohneck or the Col de la Schlucht. Parking can be limited during peak season, especially on weekends. Be aware that the Route des Crêtes is sometimes closed in winter. Check local traffic reports before you go.
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Public Transport
From La Bresse, take the Fluo Grand Est bus line to Col de la Schlucht. From there, you can access the Route des Crêtes and various hiking trails. Bus fare is approximately €7. A free shuttle service, Navette des Crêtes, operates during the summer months, providing access to various points along the route. Check the La Bresse town hall website for the shuttle schedule. During the winter, a free shuttle bus (Ligne A) connects La Bresse with La Bresse-Hohneck ski station, providing access to the southern end of the Route des Crêtes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi from La Bresse to a specific point on the Route des Crêtes, such as the Hohneck, will cost approximately €30-€40 and take around 20 minutes. Ride-sharing services may be limited in this area.
Discover more about Rte des Crêtes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vosges
2.9 km
Explore the stunning Vosges Mountains in France, where breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and outdoor adventures await every traveler.
Elsass Destination
20.5 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Elsass Destination, where picturesque landscapes and rich Alsatian culture await every traveler.
Château fort de Vaudémont
21.0 km
Explore the medieval Château Fort de Vaudémont in Eguisheim, France, with stunning architecture, panoramic views, and Alsatian charm.
Castle Wineck
23.3 km
Explore Château du Wineck in Katzenthal, Alsace: a medieval castle surrounded by vineyards, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Alsatian heritage.
Domaine Joseph Gruss & Son (Fine Wines of Alsace)
23.6 km
Experience the authentic taste of Alsace at a family-run winery in the heart of Eguisheim, combining tradition with exceptional wines.
ALSACE ORIGINAL EXPERIENCES
23.7 km
Immerse yourself in Alsatian culture with wine tasting, cooking classes, and guided tours at Alsace Original Experiences in Issenheim.
Copper mine at Le Thillot
23.8 km
Explore the depths of the Hautes-Mynes copper mine in Le Thillot, a historical landmark offering a glimpse into Lorraine's mining past.
Château de Kaysersberg
23.9 km
Explore the medieval Château de Kaysersberg, offering panoramic views of the Alsace Wine Route and a glimpse into the region's storied past.
Ancien observatoire d'artillerie WW1
24.1 km
Explore a preserved German artillery observation post from World War I in Herrlisheim-près-Colmar, offering a glimpse into military history.
South Gate of the wine road of Alsace
25.0 km
Discover the beauty and heritage of Alsace at the South Gate of the Wine Road, where your wine adventure begins in Thann!
Domaine Paul Blanck
25.1 km
Discover Alsatian winemaking at Domaine Paul Blanck, a historic winery crafting exceptional wines in the heart of Kaysersberg-Vignoble.
Lorraine Kreuz
25.1 km
Discover the Lorraine Kreuz in Thann: a symbol of Alsatian resilience offering panoramic views and a poignant reminder of WWII history.
Musée du Vignoble et des Vins d'Alsace
25.2 km
Explore centuries of Alsatian winemaking history and traditions at this captivating museum in Kaysersberg-Vignoble.
Route des Vins d'Alsace
26.1 km
Discover Alsace's enchanting Route des Vins: a scenic trail through vineyards, picturesque villages, and world-renowned wineries.
L’Alsaciette
26.5 km
Explore Alsace through L'Alsaciette's Food & Wine Tours: Discover local winemakers, restaurants, and producers in a comfortable minibus journey.
Unmissable attractions to see
Le Lac de la Lande
1.4 km
Explore the natural beauty of Le Lac de la Lande in the Vosges Mountains—an ideal hiking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
La Bresse-Hohneck
2.1 km
Discover La Bresse-Hohneck: Your ultimate ski resort and hiking destination in the breathtaking Vosges mountains of France.
Nature House of Rothenbach
2.3 km
Discover the Nature House of Rothenbach: A family-friendly eco-attraction in the stunning Vosges mountains, dedicated to wildlife and environmental education.
Lac Du Schiessrothried
2.6 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Lac Du Schiessrothried, an alpine lake in the Vosges Mountains, perfect for hiking and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
Cascade de la wormsa
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cascade de la Wormsa, a natural gem in the heart of Metzeral, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
réserve naturelle nationale de la Tourbière de Machais
3.1 km
Discover the serene landscapes and diverse wildlife of the Tourbière de Machais Nature Preserve, a natural gem in La Bresse, France.
Cascade de Retournemer - Notre Dame des Neiges
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascade de Retournemer, a hidden gem in the Vosges mountains, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Réserve naturelle nationale de Frankenthal-Missheimle
4.0 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Réserve naturelle nationale de Frankenthal-Missheimle, a nature lover's paradise.
Sentier Des Roches
4.7 km
Explore Sentier Des Roches, a stunning hiking trail in Alsace, featuring breathtaking views and unique rock formations for nature lovers.
Luge D'été Col De la Schlucht
4.8 km
Discover the thrill of summer tobogganing at Luge D'été Col De la Schlucht, a must-visit attraction for adventure lovers amidst stunning Vosges mountains.
Station de La Schlucht
4.8 km
Explore La Schlucht, a captivating year-round destination in the Vosges mountains, ideal for skiing, hiking, and embracing nature's beauty.
Lac de Lispach
4.9 km
Lac de Lispach: A serene nature preserve in the Vosges mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures, picnics, and breathtaking views of tranquil waters.
Lac de la Ténine
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Lac de la Ténine, a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in La Bresse, France.
Cascade du Heidenbad
5.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Cascade du Heidenbad, a hidden gem in Wildenstein, France, offering natural beauty and serene landscapes for all nature lovers.
Étang de Sèchemer
6.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Étang de Sèchemer, a hidden gem in the Vosges mountains perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Essential places to dine
Ferme Auberge Breizhousen
0.3 km
Discover authentic French flavors at Ferme Auberge Breizhousen in La Bresse - where rustic charm meets exquisite cuisine.
Auberge de la Chaume du Firstmiss
0.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Auberge de la Chaume du Firstmiss in La Bresse.
Auberge La Chaume de Schmargult
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Auberge La Chaume de Schmargult in La Bresse – where exquisite French cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.
Auberge du Kastelberg
1.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst stunning Vosges mountain scenery at Auberge du Kastelberg in Alsace.
Auberge du Pied du Hohneck
1.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst breathtaking Vosges mountain views at Auberge du Pied du Hohneck.
LE PAQUIS
1.8 km
Discover the culinary excellence at Le Paquis in La Bresse – where French flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hotel Restaurant du Sommet du Hohneck
2.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and breathtaking mountain views at Hotel Restaurant du Sommet du Hohneck in Gérardmer.
Auberge du Pont Jean D'Zoure
3.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine amidst the stunning scenery of La Bresse at Auberge du Pont Jean D'Zoure.
Auberge du Steinwasen
3.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge du Steinwasen in Metzeral - where culinary artistry meets stunning natural beauty.
Restaurant Le bar à raclettes
3.5 km
Experience authentic alpine cuisine with melted cheese specialties at Restaurant Le bar à raclettes in scenic La Bresse.
Hotel Restaurant Home Des Hautes Vosges
3.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and cozy accommodations in the heart of the beautiful Vosges mountains at Hotel Restaurant Home Des Hautes Vosges.
Auberge de Retournemer
3.7 km
Discover Auberge de Retournemer: A delightful French restaurant nestled in nature's beauty in Xonrupt-Longemer.
Les Fines Fleurs Du Terroir
5.4 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Les Fines Fleurs Du Terroir in Wildenstein—where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
Auberge et Microbrasserie La Rételère
6.1 km
Discover authentic French cuisine and craft brews at Auberge et Microbrasserie La Rételère in scenic La Bresse.
Auberge des Jonquilles
6.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge des Jonquilles in La Bresse - where tradition meets exquisite flavors amidst breathtaking scenery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Green Mojo
3.6 km
Discover adventure and gourmet delights at Green Mojo in La Bresse, where outdoor fun meets local culinary excellence in a beautiful setting.
SPORTS PASSION
8.3 km
Explore La Bresse's outdoor wonders with SPORTS PASSION, your go-to spot for ski and bicycle rentals and sporting goods.
O2 Sports
8.6 km
Discover O2 Sports in Xonrupt-Longemer for exceptional sporting goods, bicycle rentals, and ski equipment in the heart of the Vosges mountains.
Pierres du Monde 88 Vosges
8.9 km
Explore the beauty of nature and craftsmanship at Pierres du Monde 88 Vosges, a unique rock shop and museum in the heart of the Vosges.
Illico Perso - Agence de publicité et impression textile
9.0 km
Discover the art of custom apparel at Illico Perso, La Bresse's premier advertising agency and t-shirt printing destination.
Le Vosgien
9.1 km
Discover the flavors of the Vosges at Le Vosgien - your go-to spot for local beers, wines, and artisanal delights in La Bresse.
Action Gérardmer
9.8 km
Explore an eclectic mix of gifts, home goods, and DIY supplies at Action Gérardmer in the heart of the Vosges mountains.
C'EST AUTRE CHOSE
9.9 km
Explore C'EST AUTRE CHOSE in Gérardmer, where exquisite leather goods and handbags await, offering unique souvenirs and gifts.
Aude de Balmy
10.0 km
Discover exquisite linens at Aude de Balmy, a charming store in Gérardmer that showcases the beauty of French textile craftsmanship.
Passing through Lorraine
10.0 km
Explore the finest gourmet grocery store in Gérardmer, where the rich flavors of Lorraine await you with every visit.
Pierres des Vosges / BEGIN GRANDEMANGE
10.1 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of jewelry and watches at Pierres des Vosges, a hidden gem in Gérardmer, France.
Altitude Sport Outdoor
10.1 km
Discover the ultimate outdoor gear at Altitude Sport Outdoor in Gérardmer, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Vosges mountains.
The North Face - Gérardmer
10.1 km
Discover exceptional outdoor gear at The North Face - Gérardmer, your ultimate destination for adventure in the heart of the Vosges mountains.
Ligne Verte - Linge De Maison
10.2 km
Explore the exquisite linens at Ligne Verte in Gérardmer – a treasure trove of quality textiles perfect for your home or as unique gifts.
Kikka
10.2 km
Discover unique local products at Kikka, a charming store in Gérardmer, perfect for souvenirs and a taste of regional culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
L'ATYPIQUE
9.0 km
Discover the unique charm of L'ATYPIQUE in La Bresse, where delicious fast food meets a cozy bar and tea house atmosphere.
Le Den's Bar
9.0 km
Experience the charm of Le Den's Bar in La Bresse, where cozy ambiance meets delightful beverages amidst stunning Vosges mountain views.
BAR LE GOBIAT
9.3 km
Experience the heart of La Bresse at BAR LE GOBIAT, where exceptional drinks and local charm await every visitor.
Bar la Ruelle
10.1 km
Experience the charm of Bar la Ruelle in Gérardmer, where delightful drinks meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
La Rhumerie
10.1 km
Discover La Rhumerie in Gérardmer, a cocktail bar offering a vibrant atmosphere and an extensive selection of unique rum-based drinks.
Le Rétro
10.1 km
Experience the charm of Le Rétro, a cozy bar in Gérardmer offering delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for tourists seeking relaxation.
Le Grattoir
10.2 km
Discover the cozy charm of Le Grattoir in Gérardmer – a perfect bar for relaxation, local drinks, and vibrant atmosphere amidst Vosges’ beauty.
Bar LES TRAPPISTES
10.3 km
Experience the charm of Bar LES TRAPPISTES in Gérardmer, where great drinks and a cozy atmosphere await every traveler.
Bar Glacier Le Neptune
10.5 km
Discover Bar Glacier Le Neptune in Gérardmer, where delightful ice creams and local delicacies await in a charming alpine setting.
Restaurant Olac And Brewery Salon De Thé
10.6 km
Experience the best of French cuisine at Restaurant Olac in Gérardmer, where tradition meets taste in a charming setting.
Le Dilem'
19.4 km
Discover the cozy ambiance and delightful drink selection at Le Dilem', the charming bar in Lapoutroie, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
LS Bar
23.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of local charm and vibrant nightlife at LS Bar in Eguisheim, where every sip tells a story.
Bar Hôtel Restaurant de la Place
23.3 km
Experience the essence of French culinary culture at Bar Hôtel Restaurant de la Place, where delightful pastries and refreshing drinks await.
The Little Roof
23.9 km
Experience the charm of Eguisheim at The Little Roof, where local wines and craft cocktails meet cozy ambiance.
La Folie
27.3 km
Discover the exquisite wines and cocktails of La Folie, a must-visit wine bar in Colmar, where every sip tells a story of tradition and passion.
