Le Markstein and its history...
A ski resort in winter, a hiking area in summer, a place for families or friends to enjoy nature or challenge themselves in sports, Markstein is an integral part of sporting life in Alsace and the Vosges!
The first ski lift in the Vosges mountains
The history of this emblematic place began in 1947, when the first mechanical chairlift to the Jungfrauenkopf was installed . This was to be the start of a long history of vertical drops, powder, descents, skis, snowboards, speed, sport, holidays and memories!
Simple, friendly, authentic and on a human scale. That's what best describes this place of nature, sport and encounters. Situated to the south of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park, the Alsatian resort has taken full advantage of its environment and the spirit that reigns there to attract skiers of all levels and all ages.
The Alsatian family resort lies at an altitude of 1185m between the Jungfrauenkopf (1268m) and the Trehkopf (1266m). With 11 downhill ski runs (2 black runs, 2 red runs, 4 blue runs and 3 green runs), four restaurants, a café, a brasserie, two farm inns, a Speck Sports rental shop, a beginners' ski area and a footpath, it has everything you could want in a family resort!
Map of the Markstein ski area
Alpine Skiing World Cup
Historically, the Alsatian resort was in the spotlight in the winters of 1983 and 1987, when it twice hosted a stage of the Alpine Skiing World Cup. On February 11 and 12, 1983, Markstein welcomed skiers for the Slalom I, Slalom II and Combined events. A few years later, on February 14, 1987, the slalom stadium was once again in demand for the World Cup slalom event. On this day, Ignemar Stenmark won his last World Cup slalom. The slalom stadium was renewed in 2006 and is now accessible to all speed-seeking skiers, day and night. Today, the stadium hosts the annual races of the International Ski Federation.
Le Markstein in summer
In summer, a multitude of outdoor activities await you at Le Markstein. In addition to the essential hikes, bike rides and trail runs, the resort also offers fun and extreme activities to suit all tastes. Since 2014, rail tobogganing has been offering thrills for young and old alike. Enjoy a course of over a kilometer and a 70 m vertical drop, while admiring the magnificent panoramas of the region. The sled can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h. Cyclists and mountain bikers will be delighted to discover the tracks of the Tour de France. The Markstein, which hosted stages in the 2014, 2019 and 2023 editions, still remembers the winners Tony Martin, Tim Wellens and Tadej Pogacar respectively. You'll be able to put yourself in the shoes of the champions as you travel these famous routes. For free-flight enthusiasts, Markstein offers the largest free-flight site in eastern France. Enjoy a unique experience as you soar over the magnificent Vosges landscape, for an incomparable sense of freedom. And if you prefer more leisurely activities, archery and mini golf await you for relaxing moments with family or friends. Whether you're looking for adrenalin or relaxation, Markstein offers you a wide range of activities to enjoy the summer outdoors in this picturesque region of the Vosges.
Restaurant Le Tremplin
In the heart of the Markstein resort, Le Tremplin restaurant welcomes skiers, hikers and cyclists in summer and winter alike... The menu features mountain and Alsatian specialities. Tables inside and a terrace outside to enjoy the view and the mountain air while you recharge your batteries.
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