Looking for wide-open landscapes, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable views? La Maison des Vosges, ideally located in the heart of the massif, is the perfect basecamp for your next cycling adventure. Whether you’re here for relaxed family rides or to conquer mythical cols, you’ll find scenic, well-marked routes for every level right on your doorstep.
Family-friendly routes: ride at a relaxed place
La Vélo Bruche
- Start: Schirmeck (30 min by car)
- Distance: up to 27 km
- Elevation gain: very low
- Type: greenway on a former railway line
A flat, secure, and scenic ride. It follows the Bruche River through meadows, villages, and forest. Ideal with children includes picnic areas and scenic viewpoints.
Celles-sur-Plaine lakes loop
- Start: 15 minutes from La Maison des Vosges
- Distance: 12 km
- Type: forest loop around lakes
A gentle ride with birdwatching spots and access to lakeside beaches. Perfect for a half-day family outing.
Routes for sporty cyclists
Col du Donon loop
- Distance: 60 km
- Elevation gain: 800 m
- Difficulty: advanced
A legendary climb (1009 m) through traditional villages and dense forest. At the top: breathtaking valley views and a visit to the Gallo-Roman temple.
The Ridge Route (Parcours des Crêtes)
- Distance: 75 km
- Elevation gain: 1200 m
- Start: Senones
This route follows the Route des Crêtes, climbing toward Col de la Schlucht or Hohneck. Guaranteed panoramic views over Alsace on one side and Lorraine on the other.
Services and practical advice
At La Maison des Vosges
- Secure bike garage
- Bike cleaning area
- Laundry for sportswear
- Cycling guides and GPS maps available
No bike? No problem. Local bike rentals are listed in our article “Tour des Trois Abbayes by bike in the Vosges.”
Recommended equipment by season
- Spring: waterproof jacket, removable sleeves
- Summer: sunscreen, plenty of water
- Autumn: layered clothing, gloves
- Winter: for experts only, with thermal gear
Cultural sites to discover by bike
- Senones Abbey: majestic architecture and peaceful setting
- Senones Textile Museum: dive into local industrial history
- Moussey Resistance Museum: a powerful WWII heritage stop
Nature activities nearby
- Hiking (Donon, Sentier des Roches)
- Relaxation at the Pierre-Percée and Plaine Lakes
- Tree-climbing courses (Bionville, Saint-Dié)
Where to eat during your ride
Welcoming Restaurants
- Auberge du Donon in Grandfontaine: great view, local food, warm atmosphere
- Relais des Lacs in Celles-sur-Plaine: ideal lakeside lunch spot
Quick Stops
- Boulangerie du Rabodeau in Senones: sandwiches, homemade energy bars
- Senones Market (Wednesdays and Saturdays): perfect for a local picnic
FAQ
When is the best time to go?
May to October. Spring and autumn offer perfect weather and beautiful colors.
Are the routes child-friendly?
Yes, several flat, safe loops like La Vélo Bruche or the Celles lakes trail.
Do I need a special bike?
A hybrid bike is enough for family routes. Road bikes or e-bikes for mountain passes. Mountain or gravel bikes for forest trails.
Where can I get maps?
At the Bruche Valley Tourist Office or online (Komoot, Strava, France Vélo Tourisme). GPX files are also available at La Maison des Vosges.
Is there a bike repair shop nearby?
Yes, Cycles Martin in Senones and Vélo Passion in Schirmeck. La Maison des Vosges also offers basic repair tools.
Are the routes well signposted?
Yes, especially greenways. For more remote trails, a GPS is recommended.
Ready for the ride?
From easy loops to iconic climbs, secret valleys to epic views, the Vosges are a cycling paradise waiting to be explored. And La Maison des Vosges, with its premium comfort and dedicated cyclist amenities, is here to make your biking holiday unforgettable.
Book now: lamaisondesvosges.fr/reservation
