Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Saulxures-sur-Moselotte

Saulxures-Sur-Moselotte

Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Saulxures-sur-Moselotte

Hard

4.5

(6)

236

riders

Grand Ballon – Markstein loop from Saulxures-sur-Moselotte

05:04

90.3km

1,860m

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: August 20, 2026

Tips

Temporary access restrictions

Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.

After 38.4 km for 3.45 km

Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)

After 42.5 km for 2.65 km

Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)

After 45.3 km for 6.74 km

Closed: • November-April (otherwise open)

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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13.4 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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23.5 km

Descent of the Route des Crêtes at Le Martinet

Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass

great asphalt, very pleasant incline (not too steep) and great views

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43.7 km

Haag Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

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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45.1 km

View of the Black Forest from Grand Ballon

Highlight • Viewpoint

One of the most beautiful views of the Grand Ballon!

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45.2 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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52.2 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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54.3 km

View from Le Treh

Highlight • Viewpoint

La Treh is a charming country farmhouse located in the Vosges. This rustic farm serves as an inn, but you can also stop to eat and drink. The views from the hostel are very scenic and worth the trip.

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76.9 km

Oderen Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

The Col d' Oderen is an 8.2 kilometer climb. This is a category 3 climb. It is located in Cornimont, Lorraine, France. The average gradient of this climb is 3.9% with a maximum of 6%. The Col d' Oderen rises from 573 meters at the start to 885 meters at the top, with a total of 312 meters of elevation gain.

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