The best traffic-free bike rides around Plancher-Les-Mines
4.6
(646)
27,706
riders
48
rides
Road cycling around Plancher-Les-Mines offers diverse terrain within the mountainous setting of the Vosges Saônoises in eastern France. The region is characterized by significant peaks like La Planche des Belles Filles and Ballon de Servance, providing challenging ascents and panoramic views. Cyclists navigate through the wooded Rahin valley and the extensive Saint-Antoine Forest, encountering varied topography from village altitudes to higher mountain slopes. These features create a network of no traffic road cycling routes suitable for different fitness levels.
Best…
Last updated: October 6, 2026
4.9
(11)
345
riders
59.1km
03:21
1,330m
1,330m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(6)
400
riders
15.0km
01:03
530m
530m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
136
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(6)
110
riders
33.8km
02:16
1,110m
1,110m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
118
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
De Col des Croix is a 679-meter-high mountain pass in the French Vogezen massif, located on the border of the Vosges and Haute-Saône departments. The pass forms an accessible connecting road (the D486) between the northern Le Thillot and the southern Servance. At the top, you will find the well-known Le Chalet Snack du Col des Croix, and the road splits towards the D16 (Route des Forts), the route that continues to the higher Ballon de Servance.
5
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The end of the climb is somewhat disappointing. There is nothing marked. No photo opportunity. You have a small parking lot, a closed military road, and a picnic spot well hidden under the trees. At the two yellow signs (mainly for hikers) there is the only indication that you are at the Ballon de Servance and at 1158 m. The climb is "cozy". No cars, completely shaded, a few kilometer markers.
5
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From Plancher‑Bas, a long, quiet forest climb begins towards the Ballon de Servance, deep in the Parc naturel régional des Ballons des Vosges. Over more than 18 kilometers, you gain almost 900 meters in altitude, but the real height difference is in the final kilometers: there, stretches of 5 to 12% steadily push you upwards through dense, shady forest. The road is narrow, quiet, and feels purely natural — a climb where you get completely into rhythm. At the top, there is no classic viewpoint, but an open space near the military area: sober, quiet, and precisely for that reason so typical of Servance.
5
0
La Planche des Belles Filles is a 5.8 kilometer climb. It is a category 1 climb. It is located in Plancher Les Mines, Franche-Comté, France. The average gradient of this climb is 8.6% with a maximum of 13.6%. La Planche des Belles Filles climbs from 527 meters at the start to 1,033 meters at the summit, for a total elevation gain of 506 meters.
5
0
This 5.9-kilometer climb from the village of Plancher-les-Mines in Haute-Saône is one of the most difficult in the Vosges. Indeed, cyclists who want to try it will need to be at least somewhat trained. With a gradient of 24% towards the end of the route, it's better to be well-attached. The gradient never seems to ease, with its hairpin bends and, upon reaching the resort, the last 2 kilometers rise like a wall. However, you'll be able to say that you've done it, so come and try the climb of La Planche too!
6
0
At the foot of the climb to La Planche des Belles Filles stands this modest water tower — a wooden reservoir on a steel frame, built in the mid-20th century to provide the mountain village with water pressure. Today, it forms a quiet industrial accent between fir and pine trees, overlooking the Ballon de Servance. For cyclists, it marks the last flat stretch before the climb.
5
0
beautiful cycle path along the Moselle
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Plancher-Les-Mines?
There are over 40 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Plancher-Les-Mines. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 8 easy, 18 moderate, and 16 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for every cyclist.
What makes Plancher-Les-Mines ideal for no-traffic road cycling?
Plancher-Les-Mines is nestled in the southern Vosges mountains, offering a network of quiet, well-maintained roads and former railway lines converted into 'voies vertes'. The region's natural beauty, combined with its challenging climbs and scenic valleys, provides an exceptional experience away from heavy vehicle traffic.
Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. The region is famous for its challenging ascents. For a significant climb, consider the Ballon de Servance – La Planche des Belles Filles loop from Ballon de Servance, which features over 1,100 meters of elevation gain over 33 km. Another demanding option is the Col des Croix – Ballon de Servance loop from Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle, covering nearly 60 km with over 1,300 meters of climbing.
Can I find family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes near Plancher-Les-Mines?
While many routes feature significant climbs, some sections of the 'voies vertes' (greenways) offer flatter, traffic-free paths suitable for families. These often follow river valleys or old railway lines, providing a gentler cycling experience amidst nature.
What are the best times of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Plancher-Les-Mines?
The best seasons for road cycling in Plancher-Les-Mines are spring, summer, and early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the mountain roads are clear of snow. Autumn offers spectacular foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear due to colder temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations.
Are there any notable viewpoints or landmarks along the no-traffic routes?
Yes, the region is rich in scenic beauty. The iconic Ballon d'Alsace offers panoramic views, and the ascent to La Planche des Belles Filles provides stunning vistas, reportedly extending to the Alps on clear days. You can also explore natural features like the Lac des Perches (Star Lake) or the Lake Alfeld, which are accessible via nearby routes.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Plancher-Les-Mines?
The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience here, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the challenging climbs, the breathtaking mountain scenery of the Vosges, and the tranquility of the traffic-free roads, especially on routes leading to peaks like La Planche des Belles Filles and Ballon de Servance.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes available?
Many of the routes around Plancher-Les-Mines are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Pinot Ramp – La Planche des Belles Filles loop from Plancher-les-Mines offers a moderate 18 km ride with over 600 meters of elevation gain, perfect for a rewarding circular tour.
Where can I park my car when starting a no-traffic road cycling route?
Parking is generally available in Plancher-Les-Mines and at common starting points for popular routes. For ascents like La Planche des Belles Filles, designated parking areas are usually provided at the base or nearby villages, allowing easy access to the traffic-free sections.
Are there any routes that incorporate the famous La Planche des Belles Filles climb?
Yes, several routes feature the iconic La Planche des Belles Filles. A popular option is the La Planche des Belles Filles – Pinot Ramp loop from Plancher-les-Mines, a moderate 15 km ride with over 500 meters of climbing, offering a taste of this legendary Tour de France ascent on quiet roads.
Can I access these routes using public transport with my bike?
Public transport options directly to Plancher-Les-Mines that accommodate bikes may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus or train services for their bike policies in advance. Many cyclists prefer to drive to a starting point in the area and then cycle from there.
Are there any waterfalls or natural monuments to see along the routes?
The region is known for its natural beauty, including several cascades. While not directly on every road cycling route, the area around Plancher-Les-Mines features beautiful waterfalls like the Cascades de la Goutte des Saules. You can also explore natural monuments such as the Ballon d'Alsace, which can be reached via some of the more challenging routes.
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