RoutesPlannerFeaturesUpdates
App
Login or Signup
Get the App
Login or Signup
Routes
Places to see
France
Alsace
Thann-Gebweiler

Lautenbachzell

Attractions and Places To See around Lautenbachzell - Top 20

Attractions and places to see around Lautenbachzell include a variety of natural features and historical sites within the Florival valley. Situated at the foot of the Grand Ballon, the highest peak in the Vosges mountains, the village is part of the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges. This location provides access to diverse landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities. The area is known for its mountain summits, scenic lakes, and historical landmarks.

Best attractions and places to see around…

Last updated: November 6, 2026

Grand Ballon

Highlight • Summit

The Grand Ballon (German: Großer Belchen), at 1,424 meters above sea level, offers a magnificent panoramic view and is the highest mountain in the Vosges Mountains.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes hereSend to Phone
Save

Markstein

Highlight • Mountain Pass

Magnificent viewpoint on the Route des Crêtes, located at the crossroads of the east-west and north-south roads, near the Grand Ballon.

A renowned farm inn is located nearby, ideal for a lunch break between two cycling trips.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Petit Ballon

Highlight • Summit

From its 1272 meters high, the Petit Ballon is certainly one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the Vosges massif. Its vast expanse of high stubble and the absence of …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Beautiful trail to the Grand Ballon

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The path that leads to the Grand Ballon is absolutely essential. First for its destination, but above all for the variety of landscapes you cross: dense forests, ridge paths, balconies. Pure hiking as we like it!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Haag Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

The Route des Crêtes, or the Vosges ridge road, is one of the most impressive mountain roads in France. The scenic Route des Crêtes runs along the main ridge of …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Lautenbachzell.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Lautenbachzell

Hiking to the summits – France's highest points

Thatches, lakes and forests – Tour des Ballons des Vosges

Hiking around Lautenbachzell

MTB Trails around Lautenbachzell

Road Cycling Routes around Lautenbachzell

Cycling around Lautenbachzell

Running Trails around Lautenbachzell

Gravel biking around Lautenbachzell

Mountain Hikes around Lautenbachzell

Other adventures around Lautenbachzell

Hiking to the summits – France's highest points

Hiking Collection by

Julien Harté

Tips from the Community

Willem VS
October 7, 2026, Col du Haag

When you drive from the Route des Crêtes towards Le Grand Ballon, you pass the Col du Haag (1233 m) almost unnoticed. Yet, this pass marks a special point on the southern flank of the highest mountain in the Vosges. Here, steep roads from the Thurdal leave the wooded slopes and reach the open heights of the massif. From the col, a typical Vosges landscape unfolds with mountain meadows, scattered farms, and sweeping views. The proximity of the Grand Ballon is felt everywhere: the imposing summit towers above the pass and forms the natural goal of the final climbing kilometers. For cyclists, the Col du Haag is mainly known as the point where difficult climbs from the valleys converge before the road continues to rise to the highest point of the Vosges.

Translated by Google•

6

0

Willem VS
October 7, 2026, Markstein

Le Markstein (1184 m) is meer dan alleen een kruispunt op de Route des Crêtes. Het is echter een echte bergpas en het hoogste punt van de oversteek tussen het Lauch- en Thurdal. Het ligt in het hart van het Vogezenmassief, midden een populair wintersportgebied dat nauw verbonden is met de Grand Ballon

6

0

Willem VS
October 6, 2026, Markstein

Le Markstein is a well-known winter sports and outdoor resort in the High Vosges, located at an altitude between 1020 and 1268 meters. The resort is situated directly on the iconic Route des Crêtes and forms an important crossroads and recreational area within the municipalities of Oderen and Lauw (near Wildenstein). At Le Markstein, you will find several traditional Fermes-Auberges and hotels where you can taste the local repas marcaire (a traditional hearty meal from the Vosges). Additionally, the location has gained significant fame in cycling; it is regularly the setting for tough mountain stages in the Tour de France (and the Tour de France Femmes), often as the final challenge after the climbs of Petit Ballon and Platzerwasel.

Translated by Google•

6

0

EifelFranke
April 19, 2025, Col du Haag

It's an ideal starting point for hikes to the Grand Ballon, the Storkenkopf, and many more. Here you can enjoy a hearty meal before or after a hike.

Translated by Google•

4

0

Ralph
May 14, 2024, Col du Haag

rather inconspicuous col that is easily missed.

Translated by Google•

4

0

Koblinator
October 29, 2023, Col du Haag

The inconspicuous pass directly below the Grand Ballon leads a wallflower existence. Since the newly asphalted route from Geishouse up, however, reaching this intermediate destination marks the point where you come across motorized traffic again and at the same time have the worst behind you and can really enjoy the last few meters up to the Grand Ballon.

Translated by Google•

5

0

Petit Ballon, together with the Grand Ballon, Ballon d'Alsace, the Badisches Belchen + Schweizer Belchen, these mountains form the so-called "Belchen System".

Translated by Google•

7

1

Always a delight to go there and special mention for the small inn just below which offers ultra attractive prices!

Translated by Google•

6

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features and viewpoints can I explore around Lautenbachzell?

Lautenbachzell is nestled in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges, offering diverse natural landscapes. You can visit the Grand Ballon, the highest peak in the Vosges mountains, for magnificent panoramic views. Another excellent viewpoint is Petit Ballon, which provides 360° views of the Alsace plain and the Black Forest. Don't miss Ballon Lake, a natural lake embedded in a glacial cirque, offering a scenic setting surrounded by forest.

Are there any scenic drives or routes near Lautenbachzell?

Yes, Lautenbachzell's proximity to the Route des Crêtes makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the scenic mountain ridges by car or bike. This route offers breathtaking views and connects several key points of interest in the Vosges mountains.

What historical or cultural sites are there to visit in Lautenbachzell and its surroundings?

Lautenbachzell offers a glimpse into local history and culture. You can visit the Vivarium du Moulin, an old mill that now houses a unique collection of live insects, spiders, and centipedes. The village also features historical religious sites like the Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul in Lautenbachzell and the Église Saint-Nicolas de Sengern in the nearby hamlet of Sengern, which itself has historical significance, having been rebuilt after World War I.

What hiking opportunities are available around Lautenbachzell?

Lautenbachzell is an excellent base for hiking. You can embark on various circuits, including routes to Hohrupf or the 'Balade ferme-auberge Gustiberg,' which offers lake views. The area around the Grand Ballon provides numerous hiking trails, including the 'Beautiful trail to the Grand Ballon' (highlight), known for its varied landscapes from dense forests to ridge paths. For more options, explore the running trails guide, which also includes hiking routes.

Are there challenging hikes for experienced trekkers near Lautenbachzell?

Absolutely. The region around Lautenbachzell, particularly the Grand Ballon and Petit Ballon, offers challenging trails with significant elevation changes. For example, the 'Grand Ballon loop from Lautenbachzell' is a difficult 8.7 km route. You can find more difficult options in the running trails guide, which includes several challenging routes in the area.

Where can I find easy or family-friendly walks in the area?

For family-friendly walks, the area around Ballon Lake is a great choice. It's a natural lake surrounded by forest, offering a scenic and generally accessible setting for a leisurely stroll. Many general hiking circuits around Lautenbachzell are also suitable for families, providing a chance to enjoy nature without extreme difficulty.

What cycling opportunities are available near Lautenbachzell?

Lautenbachzell is a fantastic starting point for various cycling adventures. You can explore challenging gravel biking routes like the 'Col de Bramont – La route des crêtes loop from Grand Ballon' or 'Markstein – Grand Ballon loop from Geishouse' by checking the gravel biking guide. For road cyclists, there are moderate to difficult routes such as the 'Climb to Col Amic – Grand Ballon loop from Fellering' or 'Bannstein Pass – Vineyards of Rouffach loop from Lautenbach' in the road cycling guide.

What is the best time to visit Lautenbachzell for outdoor activities?

The region around Lautenbachzell is ideal for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural landscapes. While winter offers opportunities for mountain sports at nearby ski resorts like Markstein and Grand Ballon, many hiking trails might be covered in snow.

Are there any places to eat or stay near the attractions?

Yes, there are options for dining and accommodation. The Auberge du Gustiberg is a notable point of interest that also serves as a place for dining. Near Markstein, a renowned farm inn is located, which is ideal for a lunch break. For more extensive options, you'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation in Lautenbachzell itself and surrounding villages.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Lautenbachzell?

Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning panoramic views from the mountain summits like Grand Ballon and Petit Ballon. The diverse hiking trails, ranging from dense forests to scenic ridge paths, are also highly valued. The serene beauty of Ballon Lake and the authentic mountain feeling of the Vosges massif contribute to a memorable experience.

Can I find mountain sports activities near Lautenbachzell?

Yes, Lautenbachzell is ideally situated for mountain sports. The ski resorts of Markstein and Grand Ballon are nearby, offering opportunities for winter sports. During other seasons, the mountainous terrain is excellent for activities like mountain biking and trail running.

Is Lautenbachzell located within a natural park?

Yes, Lautenbachzell is situated in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges. This regional natural park provides access to diverse ecosystems, protected landscapes, and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature observation.

Most popular routes around Lautenbachzell

Hiking around Lautenbachzell

Most popular attractions around Lautenbachzell

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now
Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

KrütWildensteinOderenLinthalFelleringRufachHattstattGeberschweierOberhergheimPfaffenheimNiederhergheimSulzmattUrbisWesthaltenOsenbachMollauRanspachMurbachGebweilerBuhlLautenbachOrschwihrRimbach Bei GebweilerBergholtzBergholtzzellStorckensohnSankt AmarinHüsseren-WesserlingGeishausenRimbach Bei MasmünsterMooschMitzachSulz/OberelsassBitschweilerWeilerSewenGoldbach-AltenbachMalmerspachOberbruckBiltzheimHartmannswillerWuenheimRimbachzellMasevaux-NiederbruckJungholtzDollerenKirchbergAltthannThannSickertWegscheidOberburbachUffholtzSteinbachWattwillerIsenheimOberentzenRaedersheimRammersmattNiederaspachRoderenSennheimLeimbachAspach-MichelbachSchweighausenMerxheimMeienheimNiederentzenGewenheimSentheimGundolsheimNiederburbachLauwRegisheimOberburnhauptLe Haut-SoultzbachRéserve Naturelle du massif du Grand VentronMunweilerNiedersulzbachRustenhartEnsisheimNiederburnhauptHirtzfeldenMünchhausenFessenheimRumersheimRoggenhouseBlodelsheimLac de Kruth-WildensteinLac Du Michelbachplan d'eau de Michelbach

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Linthal

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free
Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy