Discover the charm of Mesandans, Doubs, Franche-Comté

As this trail crosses the Strasbourg – Molsheim – St Dié and Strasbourg – Sélestat – Colmar railway lines, it can be done stage by stage and you can easily return to your starting point.

A real sporting challenge, this route is aimed at experienced cyclists. Why not do it over two days? Take a break to explore the cultural and heritage attractions of Delle, Porrentruy, Boncourt and Brebotte. Combining greenways (Eurovélo6, francovélosuisse, voie verte de la Largue in Alsace) and steep country roads, this loop is the most difficult. We like: the Maison de la Nature in Altenach, the stork park in Seppois and the Bison Park in Boncourt*.

This itinerary, which links the Atlantic to the Black Sea, runsalong the three longest European rivers, the Loire, the Rhine andthe Danube, from Nantes to Budapest. In Alsace, it runs along theRhone-Rhine canal through the Sundgau area, Mulhouse, Kembsand Huningue - Montreux-Vieux / Mulhouse station: 35 km- Mulhouse station / Huningue: 33 km- Total Elevation Montreux-Vieux / Huningue: 50m

From Franche-Comté to Switzerland, EuroVelo 6 follows the Rhône-Rhine canal into Alsace, passing the impressive ladder of twelve locks of Valdieu-Lutran in its southern part. After arriving in Mulhouse, the route continues along the banks of the Rhône-Rhine Canal to Kembs. From there, via the towpath of the 403000002 into Germany and then into Switzerland to Basel.

Access: East of Val-d'Ajol. Parking: Park in the car park in Outremont. Distance: 7,7 km / Duration: 2 h 30 / Difference in height: 220m / Signs: red ring. 1 Leave from the hamlet of Outremont (a visitor's car park has been provided at a crossroads). Head towards the densest and oldest part of the hamlet. Walk through the hamlet from bottom to top (numerous fountains and calvaries). 2 A dirt track on the right leads to the so-called "Angleys" (the largest calvary in the commune, but it is missing its cross). 3 Continue up the road, turning left at the first opportunity and then right before reaching a farm. 4 Walk 200m round trip to see one of the oldest carved crosses from the 17th century. Continue towards the forest. Cross the tarmac road. 5 Take a path that marks the boundary between Lorraine and Franche-Comté with some very special boundary markers (St André cross and Lorraine cross). 6 Leave the border path on the left to join the small road to Combelles. At the next crossroads, take a gravel road that passes the ONF refuge chalet. 7 Cross a large crossroads where several forest tracks converge. Go down a short steep slope to the left. The path joins a tarmac road downstream. Follow it to finish the route.

Marked Snowshoeing trail starting from the "Gentiane" : Track 4 Petit tour Wissgrut. Length of the trail: 2.5 km - elevation: + 70m - duration: 1h15. Route in a loop, discover the area Plain de la Gentiane. The GPx track is available for download above. The map of the snowshoeing routes of Ballon Alsace is downloadable here above.

A short two-hour stroll to discover a wild nature before or after a good meal at the Grand Langenberg farmhouse inn located 900 m above sea level.

Your 1.5-hour walk will be enriched by several landmarks, including the Deminers’ Monument and the statue of Joan of Arc. At the summit, you’ll find an orientation table made of two cast-iron half circles. Each half-circle is divided into three arcs indicating distances. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear.

Take advantage of the quietness of the forest and the amazing views during this hike that will offer you all the charms of the Ballon d'Alsace, highest point of the southern Vosges. Warning: this walk passes through the protected area of the Ballons Comtois Nature Reserve, dogs are forbidden, even on a leash. Duration: 2h - Length: 6 km - Elevation: +140 m - Markings: Yellow point - Red rectangle - Blue ring - Red point. Access: National 66, at the tourist office of St Maurice sur Moselle take the D486 which is just opposite and go up to the top of the pass. Departure: Maison du Tourisme at the top of the Col du Ballon d'Alsace. Route: - From the car park of the Maison du tourisme, go towards the forest behind the monument "L'Homme projeté" by following the path between the chalet dedicated to cross-country skiing and the sign "Réserve naturelle des Ballons Comtois" (yellow point/red rectangle GR5). - Pass in the forest - At the first crossing (after the board "Forêt Domaniale du Ballon d'Alsace"), turn right and follow the blue ring markings "Chemin Colas". At the crossroads 30m further on, turn right again following the same marks: "Ballon d'Alsace 1h30 par le Chemin Colas - Jumenterie 0h45". - Follow this path for about 1km. Look at the Ballon de Servance on your left, which is characterized by its antenna at its top. - You arrive at a small cleared area bordering the road. Follow the path which leads up on the right (blue ring "Jumenterie") - Go up during almost 200m on this rather steep short part, it leads to the cow park in which you pass. - Cross the field and then follow the road, staying in the meadow until you reach the building in front of you (the "Jumenterie"). - Cross the road, pass in front of the building and go along on its right side following the path (red point, direction "Sommet du Ballon") - You arrive at a small chalet (the red point is on its left side). You can have a break at the picnic table and the look at the cows (depending on the season). - The picnic table in your back , take the uphill path that goes under the ski lift. - Leave the cow park by following the path, continue for about 600m, through the forest and the blueberries. - When you reach the clearing, follow the path that leads along the meadow on your right. Depending on the weather and the season, you may see horses. - You can reach the path on your left "le Sentier Découverte" that lead up to the statue of Jeanne d'Arc. Otherwise turn right and reach your starting point. IGN map reference 3520 OT available in the tourist offices. The GPX route and the description in french of the walk are downloadable above.

Access: From Remiremont go to Val-d'Ajol, go to the church. Parking: Park at Place du Sô. Distance: 11 km / Duration: 3 h 30 / Difference in height: 390m / Marking: Green disc. 1) From the church, follow the road to Saint-Bresson (former Gerbe d'Or brewery). Take the forest path and then a tarmac track leading off to the left to an inhabited clearing. Go around the dwellings by a forest track to the top of the mountain (old quarries on the left on the summit used to build the church). Follow the ridge path through the large Scots pines without leaving the forest. 2) At the junction with a tarmac path, head towards the farm on the left (fountain). At the first bend, a path on the left descends through a beech forest. Through a succession of small paths, reach the bottom of the Hamanxard valley (old workers' housing estate, school, farms). 3) The D20 at the bottom of the valley offers a shortcut in case of fatigue or unforeseen circumstances. If you choose to continue, cross the hamlet of Leyval straight ahead (several calvaries). A new ascent begins on a dirt track after a succession of fountains. 4) When you reach the hamlet of Les Granges de Leyval, turn sharply left after the last building. Continue along a grassy path in the direction of the television relay station on the other side (panoramic view of Faymont, Les Feuillées and the Val-d'Ajol). 5) Go down on a small road towards the village of Val-d'Ajol, which you can soon see. 6) Go down through the pastures on a grassy path. After crossing a wetland area often covered with periwinkle, take the path on the right. 7) At the hamlet of La Rochotte (17th century cross and viewpoint), follow the right-hand track which runs down the rest of the hill and leads back to the village by the road.

DEPARTING FROM LAUSANNE, HEAD TO THE MEDIEVAL TOWN OF GRUYÈRES, HOME TO THE FAMOUS SWISS CHEESE! Departing from Lausanne, head to the medieval town of Gruyères, home to the famous Swiss cheese!  Leave Lausanne by bus and climb up into the alpine pastures to reach Gruyères.  After a tour around the town, your guide will take you to a Swiss chocolate factory to show you how famous Swiss chocolate is made.  Then head to an old alpine cheese factory. Enjoy a Swiss cheese tasting and learn more about the national dish: fondue.  Learn to make your own Swiss fondue and try the traditional dish.  After your meal, relax and climb on board the Golden Express, a panoramic train which crosses the alpine pastures and the heights of Lake Geneva. Enjoy incredible views of the lake and the Alps. When you get off the train, get back on your bus and head to Lavaux and its terraced vineyards. Try the wines of Lavaux, alongside some sausage and cheese.  You will be taken back to Lausanne at the end of the day. THIS ACTIVITY IS AVAILABLE FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER ONLY

FROM LAUSANNE, DISCOVER THE TOWN OF MONTREUX AND THE MEDIEVAL CHILLON CASTLE! DEPARTING FROM LAUSANNE, DISCOVER THE TOWN OF MONTREUX AND THE MEDIEVAL CHILLON CASTLE!  Departing from Lausanne, climb on board your bus and head to the town of Vevey on Lake Geneva. If the weather allows, climb on board a steamboat and cross the lake to reach Chillon Castle. Make the most of a guided tour of this fortified castle, built in the 16th century and hidden by Lake Geneva!  After your visit, you will head back towards Montreux by bus. You will make a stop to enjoy some free time in the town. At the heart of the town, make the most of the unique and relaxing atmosphere in the centre of the Swiss Riviera. Do some shopping or simply soak up the town’s “jazzy” atmosphere.  Then get back on your bus and head to Lausanne at the end of the day. THIS ACTIVITY IS AVAILABLE BETWEEN MARCH AND DECEMBER

Would you like to relive great Olympic moments? Feel the pulse of the champions? Discover the creative flair of the host cities? Share the enthusiasm of all the volunteers behind the scenes? The world of the Games with its many facets will open up to you and give you some great stories to tell! At The Olympic Museum, learning is about having fun and experimenting. We do everything we can to trigger interest and spark action. More than ever, scientific and cultural endeavour play a part in the Games, strengthening their influence in the modern world. Get in touch with the spirit that motivates the greatest Olympians. The life stories of towering figures from past Games personify the Olympic values and challenge us all to push beyond the limits. You will discover that these Olympic superheroes are first and foremost superb human beings. The sculptures in the park tell the story of a dialogue between art and the Olympic Games that has endured since the birth of the Games. Open to all, the sports installations allow you to discover athletes records. The Museum has 3000 m2 of exhibition space, over 1500 exhibits, 150 screens and our passion, combining to create the ultimate experience and give you some great stories to tell.

Discover the town of Evian during a return cruise from Lausanne! DISCOVER THE TOWN OF EVIAN DURING A ROUND-TRIP CRUISE FROM LAUSANNE! Climb on board and set off across the calm waters of Lake Geneva. You'll reach the town of Evian after a 45-minute crossing.  Once you have arrived you will be able to freely explore the town, famous the world over for its sources of mineral water. 

SET OFF TO DISCOVER VEVEY DURING A BOAT TRIP ON LAKE GENEVA! Set off to discover Vevey during a boat trip on Lake Geneva!  Departing from Lausanne, set off on an hour long cruise on the calm waters of Lake Geneva.  Head to the town of Vevey on the Swiss Riviera and enjoy some free time in the town before climbing back on board your boat to get back to Lausanne at the end of the day. THIS ACTIVITY IS AVAILABLE FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER ONLY

DISCOVER THE TERRACED VINEYARDS OF LAVAUX WITH THIS SIGHTSEEING CRUISE FROM LAUSANNE! Discover the terraced vineyards of Lavaux with this sightseeing cruise from Lausanne!  Climb on board and leave Lausanne behind to discover the waters of Lake Geneva and gaze upon the terraced vineyards of Lavaux from your boat.  Admire the hillside vineyards, planted on narrow terraces since the 6th century. This incredible site is classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!  In just 1 hour 20 minutes soak up the unique atmosphere of Lake Geneva and relax on board as the boat passes by the villages of Pully, Lutry and Cully. SEASONAL ACTIVITY: OFFER AVAILABLE FROM JUNE TO SEPTEMBER ONLY

Set off on a steamboat cruise on Lake Geneva and travel from Lausanne to Geneva! Set off on a steamboat cruise on Lake Geneva and travel from Lausanne to Geneva! Set off on a 4 hour cruise of Lake Geneva and admire the beauty of Switzerland from the water. Once you’re settled on your boat, make the most of the stops at Coppet, Nyon, Yvoire, Rolle and Morges to discover the villages on the edge of the lake, before heading to Lausanne!  THIS ACTIVITY IS AVAILABLE BETWEEN APRIL AND OCTOBER ONLY

SET OFF FOR A CRUISE ON THE WATERS OF LAKE GENEVA AND DISCOVER THE CHAPLIN’S WORLD MUSEUM! Set off for a cruise on the waters of Lake Geneva and discover the Chaplin’s World Museum!  Once on board your boat, discover the Swiss Riviera’s most beautiful sites: * Montreux * Chillon Castle * The Dents du Midi * The Island of Peilz * The Réserve Naturelle des Grangettes * Le Bouveret * And more! At the end of your cruise, get your tickets at the ready and head into the world of the most well known actor in silent cinema: Charlie Chaplin.  With your ticket for Chaplin’s World, follow in the footsteps of the artist and visit the house he lived in for 25 years. Also enjoy an interactive tour around a Hollywood studio, retracing the history of silent cinema through Chaplin’s greatest works!  Finally, walk around the property’s 4 hectare park between the lake and the Alps!  THIS ACTIVITY IS AVAILABLE BETWEEN MAY AND DECEMBER

The little train offers you a 35 minutes tour. Thanks to the commentary on board, you will discover the main monuments and emblematic places of the city.

A programme of thematic exhibitions is presented every year : paintings, sculptures, photographs, etc. In just a few years, the Palais Lumière has become one of the main cultural and artistic centres of the lake Geneva basin. Inaugurated in August 1902, the institute of hydrotherapy is considered to be the best of its kind. Open from 15 May to 15 October, it administers 1,200 treatments a day: baths, showers, massages, and electrical and mechanical treatments. Architect Ernest Brunnarius designed an impressive building: 68 m long and 25 m high, topped with a 30-m dome on a square base. Along the partially tiled façade, the ramps lead to a monumental entrance framed by bell towers. Under the porch, two paintings by Jean Benderly depict water. Listed as a historical monument, the building was extensively renovated from 2004 to 2006. Renamed the "Palais Lumière", it now holds a multi-media library, exhibition rooms and a convention centre. - April 19, 2025 to January 4, 2026 Exhibition of a selection of more than three hundred works drawn from a private collection of nearly five thousand paintings, drawings, watercolors, prints, posters, books and illustrated magazines, by recognized artists or to be discovered. Guided tour (in french only) every day at 2:30 p.m. Little games at Palais Lumière for children between 6 and 12 years : a booklet with little games for a visit of the exhibition is available at the reception.

Known as the Jérenceau or Jaranceau cross, this crossroads cross dates from 1626 and was restored in 1750. On one side, Christ with a flattened chest, girded by a heavy drapery, is depicted. On the right, under the arm of the cross, is Saint Magdalene, her head veiled, while on the left is Saint John. On the reverse, the square-jawed Virgin holds the naked Child on her lap. Saint Paul is shown holding his keys to the shaft, a symbol of his authority. Listed as a historic monument since 1926, it is one of 145 crosses in the Val-d'Ajol and forms part of the largest Way of the Cross in Christendom.

In the heart of Val-d'Ajol, a 17th-century cross stands out for its diamond shape decorated with fleur-de-lys. At its centre, Christ, head bowed, is surrounded by the Virgin Mary and Saint John, symbols of compassion and faith. The Val-d'Ajol, with its 145 crosses, three of which are listed as Historic Monuments, has a remarkable religious heritage. This cross is part of the largest Way of the Cross in Christendom, offering an exceptionally rich spiritual and cultural journey.

Located in the heart of the Ballons des Vosges Natural Park, Le Ballon d'Alsace is at the top of the Southern Vosges. This distinctive site reaches 1,247 m. The ideal spot for skiing as a family, it offers numerous activity options from cross-country to downhill skiing, as well as traditional snowshoeing. Those passionate about unusual winter sports will love the snowpark where you can try your hand at dog sledding.

Located in the heart of the Ballons des Vosges Natural Park, Le Ballon d'Alsace is at the top of the Southern Vosges. This distinctive site reaches 1,247 m. The ideal spot for skiing as a family, it offers numerous activity options from cross-country to downhill skiing, as well as traditional snowshoeing. Those passionate about unusual winter sports will love the snowpark where you can try your hand at dog sledding.

High ropes courses for young and old in the middle of the Southern Vosges! From the green course (beginners) to the black course (advanced), there is something for everyone! Children can discover tree climbing thanks to the Panda course, accessible from 3 years old. Also discover the Acro Bull: a giant inflatable ball with a diameter of 3.50 m. The aim of the game: to hurtle down a grassy or snowy slope, alone or in pairs, while strapping yourself inside the Acro-Bulle. For those who love strong feelings and beautiful panoramas, there is the giant motorized zip line!

In the centre of the Val-d'Ajol, this former quarry, dug in the first half of the 20th century for the needs of a textile factory, has been managed for about thirty years by the local fishing company, which regularly supplies the pond with trout, carp... there are also guards and tench. Sale of fishing cards: at the AAPPMA and at the Intermarché supermarket. Located on rue Dame Dorothée.

Hit the toboggan runs at high speed! The Ballon d'Alsace resort offers toboggan runs that are accessible free of charge, secure and groomed for all ages. Possibility of equipment rental on site. Access: special equipment, snow tires or chains required to access the resort! Chaining area at the exit of the village of Sewen.

Hit the toboggan run at high speed ! The Ballon d'Alsace resort offers toboggan runs that are accessible free of charge, secure and groomed for all ages. Possibility of equipment rental on site. Access : special equipment, snow tires or chains required to the resort ! Chaining area at the exit of the village of Sewen.

The first church in Val d'Ajol, which resembled a chapel, stood on a mound. Deemed too small, it was replaced in the 16th century by a new church on the Place du Sô. The oldest part of the church dates back to the 16th century, and was extended until the 18th century to accommodate the growing population. After the earthquake of 1682, the bell tower, built on unstable ground, was consolidated in 1734 with a portico with three porches aligned with the nave and aisles. The bell tower houses four bells and its roof is covered in lava stone. The interior contains a number of items that are listed as historic monuments: an 18th-century altarpiece, a 16th-century Christ on the Cross and a 15th-century piéta.

The Ballon d'Alsace is the highest point in the Southern Vosges, at an altitude of 1,247 metres. It is located in the heart of the Ballon des Vosges Regional Nature Park, where two regions (Grand Est et Bourgogne - Franche Comté) and four departments (Haute-Saône, Haut-Rhin, Territoire de Belfort et Vosges) meet. The Ballon d'Alsace is an ideal recreational area for children and adults, offering many activities all year round. A discovery trail offers a panoramic view of the Alps and Alsace. The walk takes about 1 hour. 10 reading tables and an oriantation table will give you more information about this place and the surrounding landscapes. Visit also some noteworthy monuments: the Virgin of the Summit, Notre-Dame du Ballon, built in 1862, the Monument of Deminers, inaugurated on 7 July 1952, and the equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, sculpted by Mathurin Moreau which has been moved several times before being permanently installed at the top of the Ballon. The marked trails will delight beginners and experienced hikers. The paragliding and hang-gliding flight areas attract many thrill seekers every year. The map of the Ballon d'Alsace is downloabable here :

The Wissgrut farmhouse inn is located on the Alsatian side of the Ballon d'Alsace mountain. It offers exceptional views of the Alsace plain, the Doller valley, the peaks of the Vosges mountains, the Belfort region and, on a clear day, the Swiss Alps and the Mont Blanc massif. This site is particularly popular and well known among hikers.

Offers a simple menu card according to the season with fresh, local and homemade products. Offers a personalized welcome with the privatization of the establishment for group meals or organization of events.

Need a gourmet break during your adventure? Stop by the snack bar and treat yourself to a selection of refreshing snacks and drinks. A wide variety of choices to satisfy your sweet or savoury cravings.

Local cuisine with beautiful regional traditions such as our fondues, tartiflettes, cancoillottes and smoked sausages from our region or simply a grill to enjoy in an always friendly atmosphere.

Nestled on the mountainside, at an altitude of 900 metres below the Ballon d'Alsace, the Grand Langenberg farmhouse inn invites you to discover its artisanal and local products. This family-run farm raises a herd of Vosges cows, which produce a delicious traditional cheese: Bargkass. Easily accessible by car via the road leading to the Ballon d'Alsace, the farm is also a stopping point for several hiking trails. The inn can accommodate up to 25 guests, by reservation only.

Take a gourmet break at any time of year at the foot of the Ballon d'Alsace slopes. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal featuring local specialities, the varied cuisine is sure to satisfy every appetite. Indulge in the famous marcaire meal or the delicious pork dishes served in autumn.

The Deminers bar is an essential stopover for bikers, walkers and Nordic skiers. Near the top, the bar offers a brasserie, snacks and a souvenir shop. In winter, you will find a rental of cross-country skis, sleds and yooners.

Gift shop, souvenirs and local products at the top of the Ballon d'Alsace. Snacks with the flavors of our regions. Hire of cross-country skis, snowshoes and sledges. Open all year except Wednesdays (except during school holidays).

The Sommet hotel-restaurant is a friendly place. On the menu regional dishes, simple and generous. Some specialties according to the seasons.

Traditional cuisine. Panoramic terrace overlooking the valley of the Doller.

Chalet with two dormitories that can accommodate thirty people and team of a dining room. It is located directly at the foot of the alpine ski slopes of Ballon d'Alsace. Departure of hike.

Come and recharge your batteries in the Southern Vosges in a chalet, at the gates of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park. You can relax while enjoying nature, hiking or cycling. The chalet is located 2km from the center of the village with its shops and the Tourist Office (Maison de la Randonnée). Close to Plombières-les-Bains and Luxueil-les-Bains, this gite is ideal for spa guests. Located 45km from Gérardmer and La Bresse, you can also escape to the ski slopes in the winter season. Classified 3 stars, this cottage has all the comforts with on the ground floor: living room in the veranda with a view of nature, living room with sofa, TV and pellet stove (not included) open to fully equipped kitchen, 1 bedroom with 1 2p bed, bathroom with Italian shower, separate WC. Upstairs: 1 mezzanine with double sofa bed, 1 bedroom with 1 double bed. Linens provided. Possibility to rent household linen.

Detached 30m² house for 4 people located in a quiet location near the forest, 2.5 km from the town center of Val-d'Ajol, 9 km from Plombières and 7 km from Fougerolles (70). Pleasant place for nature lovers and hikers. Marked hiking and mountain biking trails nearby. Ground floor: Entrance, living room-kitchen, bathroom with walk-in shower, separate WC. Upstairs: 1 bedroom with 1 double bed, 1 living room with sofa bed for 2 people. Private outdoor courtyard and garden. Electricity extra.

Located at the foot of the ski slopes of La Gentiane at Ballon d'Alsace and close to hiking trails and the GR5. This shelter is open all year during school breaks and weekends. It has a capacity of about fifty people and is equipped with a kitchen.

Warm atmosphere in the heart of the massif of Ballon d'Alsace. Panoramic view: Alsace, Alps, Jura, hiking trail 100m, cross-country skiing and alpine trails nearby.

Cottage of 87 m² for 6 people, in the house owners completely independent in a quiet hamlet. Close to hiking trails. 2.5 km from the center of Val-d 'Ajol and 13 km from the spa town of Plombières-les-Bains. Composed of a sitting area with TV, large kitchen open to the dining room, 1 bedroom with 1 bed 140/190 and a bedroom with 1 bed 140/190 and 2 beds 90/190, bathroom and separate toilet . Rates: from 280 € to 390 € the week, 600 € the cure (except July / August), 150 € the Weekend

Apartment nestled in the picturesque Outremont Valley with beautiful natural surroundings and bucolic landscapes, 300 metres from marked hiking and mountain biking trails, 3 kilometres from the centre of Le Val d'Ajol (all shops) and 15 kilometres from the Plateau des Mille Étangs. Fully independent 50m² apartment on the ground floor of the owner's house. Access from the car park via steps. Entrance hall. Separate WC. Fully equipped kitchen area. Living room with table, television, desk and sofa bed for 2 people. Bedroom with 1 double bed and storage space. En-suite bathroom with shower, towel dryer and hairdryer. Charges included up to 100 kWh/week (then €0.30/kWh extra). Private terrace/relaxation area for outdoor breaks with garden furniture, barbecue and sun loungers. Private parking space.

3 dormitories, 32 beds. bathroom with shower, toilet, large kitchen, dining room, terrace, basement, central heating

Accommodation located at the Ballon d'Alsace on the road towards Sewen between the Tourtet and Chaumière. The room can hold 99 people. Two dormitories, one of 12 and one of 7 are available. Open from the 2nd of January to the 31st of March, weekends and school holidays as a gîte. Under reservation only the rest of the year.

The Beaucourt ski club chalet is located directly on the Langenberg slopes. Overnight accommodation in dormitory on reservation. Chalet open during the ski season from mid-December to mid-March weekends and school holidays of the Besançon Academy.