The Grand Ballon d'Alsace

This is the heart of the southern Vosges: in summer and winter alike, hikers set off to explore it and, once they reach the summit, discover the regions of Alsace, Lorraine and Franche-Comté at their feet. On a clear day, you can see Mont Blanc and the Alps from the summit of the Grand Ballon; at dusk or dawn, it's an impressive sight.

The shape of the Ballon owes much to the permanent humidity on its surface. It is this same humidity that explains the abundance of vegetation: from 500 to 1000m, the Ballon belongs to the fir forests, while higher up, the beech is king. Then it gives way to stubble fields; these high-altitude moorlands have short, often snow-covered lawns, which bloom in the first fine days.

Crossed by the GR 5 and GR 59, and the starting point for the GR 7, a mythical stage and route for cyclists, the Ballon offers a unique playground where everyone, at their own pace, can combine discovery and sport in an imposing landscape.

Whether for trail running or hiking, the potential of the Grand Ballon trails is impressive. It's an opportunity to evolve in a natural and mythical setting. Starting out from Saint Amarin, Goldbach or Soultz-Haut-Rhin, there are numerous trails leading up to the Alsatian giant, taking in some typically Alsatian scenery.

Don't hesitate to visit our Speck-Sports website to find out what you need for your hiking outings, or drop into our shop in Bitschwiller (68620).

Click here for detailed itineraries of the various outings around the Grand Ballon.