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Route des Crêtes

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Route des Crêtes is one of the most scenic mountain roads in the Vosges region of France. Stretching across high ridges and panoramic viewpoints, it offers travelers dramatic landscapes, peaceful nature stops, and stunning photography opportunities. It is perfect for a relaxing drive or hiking adventure.

What to See & Do

  • 🚗 Experience a world-class scenic drive along the 89km ridgeline road 🏔️
  • 🥾 Trek the panoramic paths connecting peaks like Hohneck and Grand Ballon 🌲
  • 🦌 Spot native chamois and birds of prey in the high-altitude pastures 🦅
  • 📸 Capture the “Blue Line of the Vosges” and distant views of the Alps 🔭
  • 🧀 Dine at a traditional “Ferme-Auberge” for a rustic Marcaire mountain meal 🥧
  • 🛡️ Visit the Hartmannswillerkopf memorial to explore historic WWI trenches 🪖

How to Get There

  • 🚗 Start from Cernay in the south or Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines in the north 📍
  • 🛣️ Access the central sections easily from Colmar or Gérardmer via mountain passes ⏱️
  • 🚌 Board the seasonal “Navette des Crêtes” shuttle bus during summer months 🎫
  • 🅿️ Park at designated viewpoints and trailheads like Col de la Schlucht 🚙

Travel Tips

  • ⚠️ Drive with caution as the roads are curvy with steep drops and cyclists 🚵
  • 🧥 Pack warm layers even in summer; ridge-line winds are notoriously cool 🌬️
  • ❄️ Note that most sections close during winter due to heavy snow (Nov–May) 🚫
  • 🌅 Start early to secure parking at popular spots like the Grand Ballon summit 🏔️

Suggested Itinerary

  • 🚗 8:00 AM – Begin your journey from the Colmar side toward Col de la Schlucht 📍
  • 🔭 9:00 AM – Stop at the Grand Ballon viewpoint for 360-degree panoramas 🏔️
  • 🥾 10:00 AM – Take a short ridge-line hike near Hohneck to spot wild chamois 🦌
  • 🥧 11:30 AM – Enjoy a traditional farm-inn lunch overlooking the alpine valleys 🧀

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Daily: 24 hours (weather permitting; some sections may close in winter)

Entry Fee:

Free (Public Scenic Road)

Best Time to Visit:

May–October for clear views and safe driving conditions

Location

📌 Route des Crêtes, Vosges Mountains, France

👉 View on Google Maps

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