Col d'Oberlauchen walks

A walk around Markstein on a typical Vosges ridge. This route has all the ingredients for a great hike in the Vosges mountains, including panoramic views of the peaks and valleys, well-marked trails laid out by the Club Vosgien, including over thatch, and visits to a number of farm inns.

The first half of the route, up to (5), is wooded, which is pleasant in hot weather. The second part, however, follows theGR®5in open country. There are no major difficulties, except perhaps the slightly steep climb to the Col d'Oberlauchen. There are beautiful views during this hike, particularly at the Col d'Oberlauchen, then all along theGR®5and at the summit of the Trehkopft.

Lakes and waterfalls, stubble fields and forests, peat bogs and scree slopes, springs, high-altitude beech forests... the Hautes Vosges sometimes offer a remarkable variety of landscapes within just a few kilometres, provided you are willing to climb a few slopes.

A moderately difficult hike of about 6 hours through stubble fields, forests, passes and peaks. The difficulties are mainly at the beginning, after which it's smooth sailing.

Lake, high-altitude forest and stubble fields: a concentration of the beauty of the Vosges with the added bonus of a magnificent panorama. Refreshments available at a farmhouse inn along the route. Particularly pleasant in autumn when the beech trees turn yellow and mushrooms abound in the undergrowth.

Near the source of the Lauch, on the secondary ridge between Breitfirst and Petit Ballon, Lauchen is an area of stubble fields with remarkable views and forests, including the most beautiful and highest altitude beech forests in the Vosges mountains. It is also a peaceful area, within the Guebwiller integral biological reserves, dominated by the Klintzkopf, home to the emblematic animal of the Vosges, the capercaillie or wood grouse.

A very varied route to reach the highest point of the Vosges and walk along the ridges, enjoying numerous panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The Petit Ballon massif also offers a very beautiful setting.

Mostly shaded walk. Beautiful views along the way of the Markstein, Sondernach and the Oberlauchen Pass.

An easy route, gently undulating across the highest peaks of the Vosges, through stubble fields and forests. Magnificent views over the surrounding valleys.