Refuge de la Waldmatt walks

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

This beautiful route begins with two remarkable peaks in the Vosges and offers beautiful views of the upper Moselle valley, before reaching the Pays des Étangs.

This hike takes you down from Ballon d'Alsace to Giromagny. It is the continuation of the Vosges crossing, proposed by DNA, Passion Vosges and the Journal d'Alsace (see practical information). The first few kilometres are along the ridges, with views of the Black Forest, the Rhine Valley and even the Alps. During this same section, you may come across several ski resorts, such as La Chaumière and La Gentiane. A farmhouse inn at Wissgrut offers lunch. Further on, a shelter at the Col du Chantoiseau provides a place to picnic. The descent then continues, sometimes more steeply than others. The arrival in Giromagny offers views of the city of Belfort.

A challenging climb to the Grand Ballon from Sengern (past Guebwiller). The route passes by the beautiful Lac du Ballon and the Gustiberg farmhouse inn, both of which offer very pleasant places to stop for a break.

This stage is the last of the Club Vosgien's red rectangle trail through the Vosges. This stage is classified as moderate as there is virtually no elevation gain. Most of the hike takes place under forest cover. The stage starts in the small town of Giromagny and ends in the beautiful city of Belfort, passing by Bartholdi's Lion, a must-see photo spot for those completing the Vosges crossing!