Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Ballon d'Alsace

Saint-Maurice-Sur-Moselle

Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Ballon d'Alsace

Hard

4.7

(26)

1,047

riders

Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Ballon d'Alsace

05:49

97.9km

2,410m

Road cycling

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: September 24, 2026

Tips

Temporary access restrictions

Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.

After 42.1 km for 1.34 km

Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)

After 43.6 km for 6.74 km

Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

8.04 km

Voie verte along the Moselle

Highlight (Segment) • Other

Old railway line converted into a cycle path. An excellent cycle path that takes you away from the main roads.

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15.5 km

Col de Bussang

Mountain Pass

42.1 km

The Route des Crêtes, or the Vosges ridge road, is one of the most impressive mountain roads in France. The scenic Route des Crêtes runs along the main ridge of the Southern Vosges almost entirely at an altitude of 1200 m.
Originally, it was laid out by French troops as a supply route during the First World War. Today, in the snow-free months, it is mainly visitors to the Vosges who travel on it. It runs for 75 km from Col du Bonhomme in the north via Col de la Schlucht, Hohneck, Markstein, Grand Ballon and Cernay to Thann in the south.
The route passes several sites from the First World War and touches the highest mountain in the Vosges, the Grand Ballon.
Mostly deciduous and mixed forests line the road, or there are wonderful views of the wooded slopes of the Vosges, the Rhine plain and the Black Forest opposite. On a clear day the view extends as far as the Swiss Alps and Montblanc.
On nice days it is very popular with bikers with and without motor, and hikers get their money's worth on the left and right of the road.
Many convertible tours are also made here, which come from all regions of Europe.
The Ferme, (cozy Alsatian country inns), which can be found along the entire route, offer refreshment opportunities.

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43.4 km

Grand Ballon

Highlight • Summit

The Col du Grand Ballon from Moosch is 12.6 km long with a total drop of 949 m. The average gradient is 7.6% with maximum gradients of 14.5%. There are stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The climb is often included in the Tour de France.

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50.4 km

Markstein

Highlight • Mountain Pass

Magnificent viewpoint on the Route des Crêtes, located at the crossroads of the east-west and north-south roads, near the Grand Ballon.

A renowned farm inn is located nearby, ideal for a lunch break between two cycling trips.

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65.4 km

Lake Kruth-Wildenstein

Highlight • Lake

Lake Kruth-Wildenstein is located in the heart of the Vosges Mountains and offers many activities: swimming, canoeing, climbing and even diving!

This artificial lake, intended to protect the valley from frequent floods, is accompanied by a campsite very popular with cyclists who explore the surrounding peaks.

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66.2 km

Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein

Lake

69.7 km

Climbing the Col d'Oderen from Kruth

Highlight (Segment) • Climb

The climb to the Oderen Pass stretches for seven kilometers. The steepest section has a gradient of 7.5% for over five kilometers.

Few cars use this road, allowing you to reach the summit, at 884 meters, in peace and safety.

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76.5 km

Oderen Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

Even slope on both sides. Good road surface. From Kruth a little more spicy.

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79.5 km

Page Pass (957 m) & Memorial

Highlight • Mountain Pass

Very nice pass in the Vosges. Above is a spring with drinking water (a bit hidden behind the house). Comfortable slope, briefly between 9-11%. Conveniently passable on both sides and as a transition to the Route des Cretes or in the direction of LaBresse / Remiremont.

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