Discover Secenans in Haute-Saône

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.

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 the Franche-Comté to Switzerland, the EuroVélo 6 itinerary gives way to a timeless Alsace boasting thatched houses and stork nest alongside the Canal du Rhône au Rhin (Rhône Canal to the Rhine). Upon arriving in Mulhouse, take the bike path which follows along the Canal du Rhône au Rhin up to Kembs. By riding along the Huningue Canal, you’ll end up arriving at the Trois Pays walkway which leads directly to the German border. The road follows along the banks, then crosses the Rhine to arrive in Switzerland, in the city of Basel.

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.

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.

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.

From the farm inn Lochberg, two circuits are possible to walk between forests and pastures. Easy walk with family.

From the farmhouse inn, there is a small walk of about an hour between pastures. Nestled in the old glacial cirque, between Lake Alfed and Ballon d'Alsace, 710 m above sea level. The farm is in a pleasant setting of pasture. From here lead, for good walkers, trails to various places, such as Lake Alfeld, waterfalls and surrounding peaks, including the Ballon d'Alsace.

On the Crêtes: from Baerenkopf to Sudel Access - Departure - Route From Masevaux, follow signs for Ballon d'Alsace as far as the village of Kirchberg. Follow signs for Kirchberg-centre and Lachtelweiher. Leave the village and drive on the mountain road for about 3.5km to Lac du Lachtelweiher. Follow the road around the lake and park in the parking lot indicated on the right below the road. Places of interest: Ferme Auberge du Lochberg & Ferme Auberge du Bruckenwald, Lac du Lachtelweiher, Oratoire de la Vierge, Ligne de crête, Abri du Neuberg, Bearenkopf with viewpoint.

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

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

DISCOVER THE “SWISS RIVIERA” ALONG LAKE GENEVA, WITH THIS CRUISE DEPARTING FROM MONTREUX! DISCOVER THE “SWISS RIVIERA” ALONG LAKE GENEVA, WITH THIS CRUISE DEPARTING FROM MONTREUX!  Set off on a 2-hour cruise on the shores of Lake Geneva, and admire the landscapes of the Swiss Riviera.  On board your boat, relax and gaze at the lakes and mountains around the lake and the area’s most beautiful sites such as:  * Chillon Castle * The Dents du Midi * The Island of Peilz * The Réserve Naturelle des Grangettes * Le Bouveret * Vevey Tower * And more! 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. - From June 8, 2024 to January 5, 2025: “Henri Martin / Henri Le Sidaner, deux talents fraternels” (Henri Martin / Henri Le Sidaner, two fraternal talents) For the first time in Europe since their deaths, the Palais Lumière brings together these two fraternal talents from the Symbolist generation, enamored of nature, music and poetry. Through 120 paintings, a few drawings and two bronzes, the exhibition traces the career and evolution of these tireless workers, from the sunny climes of the South of France to the soothing effects of the North. 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.

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!

Pond of almost 1 hectare hosting carp, tench, roach, pike and trout.Trout fishing on Easter Monday. Opening of the fishing season on the following Saturday until 1st November and until the end of January in the case of pike. Fishing available on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 7 am to 6 pm (in June to 8pm in July and August until 9 pm) If no one is at the reception desk, take a seat and the guard will come by presently. Complete rules displayed on site. Annual permit costs 35 € for villagers only and for those sponsored by a committee member.

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 Ballon d'Alsace is a major National Heritage Site and 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 and four departments meet. The Ballon d'Alsace is an ideal recreational area for children and adults, offering many activities all year round. A signposted 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 small lake Lachtelweiher, the southernmost of the lakes Vosges is located at 740 meters above sea level. Activities: fishing and hiking (swimming prohibited, at your own risk) Access: By car take direction Kirchberg center then Lachtelweiher. On foot 1 hour walk from Kirchberg and 30min from farmhouse inn Lochberg, Entzenbach or Bruckenwald

The Notre Dame Chapel in Bellefontaine gets its name from a spring. According to legend, in the sixteenth century a wounded warrior plunged his bloody hand in the water while invoking the Virgin. It is said that it was immediately healed and, in gratitude, he placed a picture or statue of Mary there. Rapidly known throughout the region, the site became a popular pilgrimage destination. Around the middle of the 18th century a chapel was built, the maintenance of which was entrusted to a hermit. It escaped the revolutionary turmoil and remained a place of celebration for the faithful of the two neighbouring areas. In 2000, the chapel was designated as the official Jubilee pilgrimage in the Sundgau area. Each year, on the feast of St. George, riders go there to bless their horses. Text by Marc GLOTZ

Lake Alfeld from glacial erosion overlooks the valley The reflection of the rocks, the deciduous forest that burns in autumn, the headland covered with a cottage and the foam of the Wasserfall waterfall, all combine to create an idyllic picture with an impressive palette. Activities: fishing, stroll, bathing at the risk and peril of the bather.

The Wissgrutt farmhouse is located on the Alsatian side of the Ballon d'Alsace. Panoramic viewpoint over the Alsace plain, the Doller valley, the Vosges peaks, the Territoire de Belfort and, further on, the Swiss Alps and the Mont-Blanc massif.

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.

Attached to the mountain below the Ballon d'Alsace at 900m above sea level this farm has a herd of Vosges cows that makes an excellent cheese: the Bargkass. This family farm will make you discover these artisanal and local products. It is accessible by car from the road leading to the Ballon d'Alsace. Also several hiking trails intersect to access.

At the foot of the ski slopes, it is possible to stop for a snack or other typical dishes. A varied cooking waits for you. Come to taste the famous meal marcaire, or pork products in November. Big terrace with very beautiful view on summits.

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.

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.

Reception area near the main road in the direction of Mulhouse and Belfort. Toilets and information point on site, possibiity of draining sewage, open from mid-April to early October, near the canal du Rhône au Rhin and its activities and recreational cycling. Footpaths in the village. The half-timbered houses, its slender church, his old wash being restored and many ponds are part of the heritage of a village to discover.

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.

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.

This establishment offers several types of accommodation, rooms, dormitories or lodgings. Some of them are accessible to people with reduced mobility. Located on the road that leads to the Ballon d'Alsace. It is possible to eat at the hostel and on the terrace.

The mountain shelter is located at the foot of the ski slopes on the road leading to the Ballon d'Alsace. It is open all year by reservation. Sheets or sleeping bags must be brought obligatorily. The dining room can accommodate up to 80 people. New: Reservations are made online at http://chaletlangenberg.ffcam.fr/.

Chalet located at the top of the Ballon d'Alsace, summer/winter mountain resort, at the crossroads of 4 departments: The Vosges, Territoire de Belfort, Haut-Rhin, and Haute-Saône. At the foot of the ski slopes. It has 16 beds and can accommodate up to 19 persons. The ground floor consists of an entrance hall with a ski and shoe cabinet, a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, a dining room for 20 until 25 persons with a stove and access to a large terrace, and a bedroom with 4 beds accessible to people with reduced mobility with its bathroom and toilet. You will also have access to a beautiful and large south-facing terrace equipped with a barbecue, tables, benches and sun loungers. The bicycle room is located under this terrace. The first floor consists of 3 bedrooms with 4 beds. 1 bathroom and 1 toilet. There is an additional bathroom and toilet in the basement. Price: From €390 to €460 for the weekends. From €1000 to €1450 for the week.