The best road cycling routes around Lac De Longemer

The Lac de Longemer region offers a diverse range of road cycling routes. You'll find over 200 routes in total, with a significant number of challenging options. Approximately 127 routes are classified as difficult, featuring substantial elevation gains, while 63 are moderate, and 18 are easier, catering to various fitness levels.

Yes, the Vosges mountains provide excellent challenges for experienced road cyclists. Notable climbs include the ascent to Col de la Schlucht, which is part of routes like Le Col de la Schlucht – loop from Lac de Longemer, a difficult 76.5 km ride with over 1,700 m of elevation. For an even more strenuous option, consider the Col de la Schlucht – Grand Ballon loop from Xonrupt-Longemer, covering 125 km with over 2,700 m of climbing.

Road cycling around Lac de Longemer is characterized by mountainous terrain, deep pine forests, and scenic glacial lakes. You'll encounter well-paved roads, especially along the Route des Crêtes, offering panoramic views. However, some segments on certain routes may be unpaved, adding to the challenge and diversity of the landscape.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy stunning views of the 'Valley of Lakes,' including Lake Longemer itself, often called a 'mirror with 1000 reflections.' The Route des Crêtes offers uninterrupted mountain vistas, and on clear days, you might even spot the Alps from higher points like Hohneck. The View of Lake Longemer at the mouth of the Vologne River is another picturesque spot.

Yes, several routes pass by notable landmarks. The Col de la Schlucht – La Roche du Diable Rock Arch loop from Xonrupt-Longemer takes you past the distinctive La Roche du Diable Rock Arch. You might also encounter the charming Saint-Florent Chapel in Xonrupt-Longemer, or the Pré des Feignes Beach on Lake Longemer.

Many road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the moderate Longemer Lake – Lispach Lake loop from Xonrupt-Longemer, which offers scenic views around both lakes, and the more challenging Col de Sapois – Scenic Forest Road loop from Xonrupt-Longemer.

The road cycling routes around Lac de Longemer are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain passes to serene lake loops, and the stunning natural beauty of the Vosges mountains and glacial lakes.

While many routes in the region feature significant elevation, there are options suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous ride. The area around Lac de Longemer itself offers flatter sections, and some shorter loops, like the 'Heritage Loop No. 20 - The Valley of the Lakes' (approx. 33.1 km), provide moderate difficulty suitable for those with good fitness.

While not directly on every road cycling route, the region is known for its water features. The Retournemer waterfall is a notable attraction nearby, often incorporated into hiking routes, and can be a scenic detour or a point of interest for cyclists exploring the wider area.

The region is best enjoyed for road cycling during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn. This period offers more stable weather conditions, clear roads, and the full beauty of the 'Valley of Lakes' and the Vosges forests. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for higher mountain passes.

For more details about Lac de Longemer and its surrounding area, including activities and local information, you can visit the official tourism website for the region: tourisme-bruyeres.com.