Rte des Crêtes: A Panoramic Journey Through the Vosges
Discover the panoramic beauty and rich history of the Rte des Crêtes, a scenic mountain road through the heart of the Vosges, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
The Rte des Crêtes, or Route des Crêtes, is a breathtaking scenic road that winds through the heart of the Vosges Mountains in France. This historic route, established during World War I for strategic military purposes, now offers visitors stunning panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Parc naturel régional des Ballons des Vosges. Stretching for 88 kilometers, the road traverses high peaks, including the Grand Ballon, the highest point in the Vosges, and passes by iconic landmarks like the Hohneck and the Col de la Schlucht. Whether you're driving, cycling, or hiking, the Rte des Crêtes promises an unforgettable journey through a landscape of lakes, valleys, and forests, with glimpses of the Black Forest and the Alps on clear days. It's a must-see destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Rte des Crêtes
- La Bresse, 88250, FR
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Dress in layers and be prepared for rain, wind, or sun.
- The Rte des Crêtes is closed to traffic in winter, typically from mid-November to mid-April. Check local sources for current road conditions and opening dates.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather for hiking and cycling.
- Bring a map and compass or a GPS device, as cell phone coverage can be spotty in some areas. Familiarize yourself with the trails and plan your route in advance.
- Sample the local cuisine at a ferme-auberge, a traditional farmhouse inn. Try regional specialties like Munster cheese, choucroute, and tarte flambée.
Getting There
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Driving
From La Bresse town center, follow the D34 towards the Rte des Crêtes. The drive is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the specific point you wish to access along the route. Parking is available at various viewpoints and trailheads along the Rte des Crêtes. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season. During the winter season, ensure your vehicle is equipped for snowy conditions, and check road closures before departing.
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Public Transport
While public transport directly along the Rte des Crêtes is limited, you can take a bus from La Bresse to nearby towns like Gérardmer or Colmar, and then connect to hiking trails or access points along the route. From Remiremont train station, a bus connection to La Bresse is available. From La Bresse, local bus lines may offer access to trailheads closer to the Route des Crêtes, but walking or cycling may still be required for the final approach. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings and connections. A single bus fare from Remiremont to La Bresse is approximately €3-5.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis are available in La Bresse, but ride-sharing services are less common. A taxi from La Bresse town center to a specific point on the Rte des Crêtes, such as the Col de la Schlucht, would cost approximately €25-€40, depending on the distance and time of day. Pre-booking is recommended, especially during peak season.
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
Discover Le Lac de la Lande in the Vosges: Hike around this scenic lake and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains.
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
Explore the natural wonders of the Hautes-Vosges at this environmental education center with exhibits, activities, and guided tours.
Lac Du Schiessrothried
2.6 km
Discover Lac du Schiessrothried: A peaceful alpine lake in the Vosges Mountains, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Cascade de la wormsa
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Cascade de la Wormsa in Metzeral: a natural gem perfect for hiking and nature lovers in the heart of the Vosges Mountains.
réserve naturelle nationale de la Tourbière de Machais
3.1 km
Explore the unique floating peat bog of Machais in the Vosges Mountains, a haven for biodiversity and a protected natural reserve.
Cascade de Retournemer - Notre Dame des Neiges
3.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cascade de Retournemer in the Vosges, a perfect natural escape near Lac de Retournemer. #VosgesMountains #NaturalEscape
Réserve naturelle nationale de Frankenthal-Missheimle
4.0 km
Discover a protected alpine landscape in the Vosges Mountains, offering stunning views, diverse habitats, and exceptional hiking trails.
Sentier Des Roches
4.7 km
Hike the thrilling Sentier des Roches in the Vosges Mountains for breathtaking views and a challenging cliffside experience.
Luge D'été Col De la Schlucht
4.8 km
Experience high-speed thrills on the summer toboggan run at Col de la Schlucht, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable moments in the Vosges!
Station de La Schlucht
4.8 km
Discover La Schlucht: A year-round mountain escape in the Vosges, offering skiing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery on the Alsace-Lorraine border.
Lac de Lispach
4.9 km
Discover Lac de Lispach, a unique glacial lake in the Vosges with a floating peat bog, offering easy hikes and stunning natural beauty.
Lac de la Ténine
5.0 km
Discover Lac de la Ténine in La Bresse: a natural haven with serene hiking trails and unique peat bog ecosystems in the Vosges Mountains.
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
Escape to the peaceful Étang de Sèchemer in the Vosges Mountains for tranquil picnics, dragonfly spotting, and a serene nature experience.
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.
