On the Route des Crêtes

This stage alternates between ridges and valleys and takes in some of the legendary peaks of the Route des Crêtes.

Starting at the Col de la Schlucht, the route of the Traversée du Massif des Vosges follows the route of the Route des Crêtes. This old strategic road was built by French troops during the Great War. Covering more than 70km from north to south, it now marks the dividing line between Alsace and Lorraine. The Route des Crêtes takes in some of the most emblematic landscapes in the Vosges, offering unforgettable views of its passes, balloons, lakes and stubble fields.

The route takes in the Trois Fours area, popular for its cross-country ski trails in winter. Not far from the route, the Haut Chitelet high-altitude garden offers a botanical tour of the world, with over 2,500 plants from different mountain regions! A real plant journey!

Your ascent takes you to the Hohneck, the third highest peak in the Vosges at 1,364 m. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area. You may be lucky enough to spot herds of cows or a few chamois. A word of advice: don't forget your binoculars!

You then leave the Route des Crêtes and descend to Lac du Schiessrothried, nestling at the foot of the Hohneck. Below this lake, the splendid Wormsa valley, a listed natural site, is home to rivers, waterfalls and the Fischboedle lake.
Continue on to the village of Mittlach, in the Munster valley, for a pleasant break in unspoilt countryside. Take the opportunity to recharge your batteries with a local cheese speciality like Munster or Bargkass!

The route climbs back up through the forest and soon you're back on the Route des Crêtes. Follow it all the way to Markstein, which marks the end of this stage. In winter and summer alike, the Markstein resort offers leisure activities for young and old. From downhill skiing to tobogganing and mountain biking, Markstein has something for everyone!