The best cycling routes around Lac Blanc

There are over 70 touring cycling routes around Lac Blanc, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 130 reviews.

The Lac Blanc area is known for its challenging terrain. Most touring cycling routes are classified as difficult, with 57 routes falling into this category. There are also 18 moderate routes and a few easier options for those seeking a more relaxed ride.

While many routes in the Lac Blanc area feature challenging climbs and significant elevation, there are a few easier options available. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring paths that traverse dense forests and typical Vosges mountain landscapes, which often feature shorter climbs and less significant elevation changes, ideal for appreciating the scenery.

Touring cycling around Lac Blanc offers diverse landscapes, from dense fir forests to open meadow areas. You can expect breathtaking views of the Vosges mountains, especially from iconic passes like Col du Calvaire and Col des Bagenelles. The region also features glacial cirque lakes, such as Lac Blanc itself, providing picturesque focal points.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Lac Blanc are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Loop of the two lakes — Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges, which connects two notable lakes within the regional park. Another option is the challenging Lac Blanc – Wettstein Pass 880 m loop from Rocher Hans, which includes significant elevation gain.

The Lac Blanc region is famous for its challenging mountain passes. The Col du Bonhomme – Bagenelles Pass loop from Rocher Hans takes you through multiple iconic passes, including Col du Bonhomme and Col des Bagenelles. The Col du Calvaire is another legendary pass, known for its rhythm changes and steep sections, and has even been featured in the Tour de France.

Along your touring cycling routes, you can explore several natural and historical points of interest. The stunning Lac Blanc itself is a glacial lake surrounded by fir forests. You can also find walking trails on the shores of Lac Blanc, or discover a hidden quiet place for a break on the banks of lake Blanc. For a challenging ascent with rewarding views, consider the Rochers de Hans Ascent.

The best time for touring cycling in Lac Blanc is generally from spring to autumn, when the weather is milder and the mountain passes are clear of snow. During these seasons, you can fully enjoy the diverse landscapes and challenging routes. Some specific events, like 'Col Attitude' on certain Sunday mornings, even close the Col du Calvaire to motorized traffic, reserving it for cyclists.

Yes, the region offers several longer touring cycling routes for those seeking an endurance challenge. For instance, the La route des crêtes – Col de la Schlucht loop from Lac Blanc covers over 62 kilometers (38 miles) and includes significant elevation gain, traversing the scenic Route des Crêtes.

Touring cycling in Lac Blanc is unique due to its combination of challenging mountain passes, such as the Col du Calvaire and Col des Bagenelles, and its stunning natural beauty, including glacial lakes and dense fir forests. The region offers a blend of athletic challenges and exceptional panoramic views, with routes that have even featured in professional races like the Tour de France. Its proximity to the Alsace vineyards also provides opportunities to explore rich viticultural landscapes.

Absolutely. Many routes in the Lac Blanc area are designed to connect multiple iconic passes, offering varied terrain and continuous challenges. For example, the Col du Bonhomme – Louchpach Pass loop from Lac Blanc is a route that links these two significant passes, providing a comprehensive touring experience through the Vosges mountains.