The best gravel rides around Mollau
4.3
(12)
155
riders
10
rides
Gravel biking around Mollau offers diverse terrain within the Vosges massif, characterized by lush forests, high-altitude clearings, and significant elevation changes. The region provides a network of trails with varied surfaces, including technical singletracks, loamy sections, and areas with rock faces. Cyclists can expect routes that traverse mountainous backdrops and offer expansive views of the valleys. This area is suitable for gravel bikers seeking challenging climbs and varied natural environments.
Best gravel bike trails around Mollau
- The most popular gravel…
Last updated: November 3, 2026
4.5
(2)
23
riders
35.5km
03:03
1,170m
1,170m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.3
(4)
45
riders
34.4km
02:26
790m
790m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
riders
34.5km
02:27
790m
790m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.0
(1)
18
riders
37.3km
02:57
1,020m
1,020m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
13
riders
109km
08:04
2,810m
2,810m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Other adventures around Mollau
Tips from the Community
The bare mountain lends itself to beautiful panoramas.
6
0
The Ferme-Auberge du Haag is a traditional mountain inn located near the Col du Haag (1233 m), at the foot of the Grand Ballon. For generations, the farms on the higher Vosges ridges have been welcoming hikers, cyclists, and winter sports enthusiasts. The Haag farm is situated in the middle of mountain pastures, with a beautiful view over the southern Vosges and the Grand Ballon.
6
0
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.
6
0
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
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.
6
0
The Route des Crêtes (from the D430 near Rothenbach) is one of the most beautiful ridge roads in Europe. The road was originally built in 1914 by the French army to supply the troops at the front during World War I. Today, it is an iconic panoramic route that connects the main peaks of the Vosges.
1
0
The Route des Crêtes (the D430 near Rothenbach) is one of the most beautiful ridge routes in Europe. The road was originally built in 1914 by the French army to supply troops at the front in World War I. Today, it is an iconic panoramic route that connects the main peaks of the Vosges.
6
0
There are no restaurants or cafes at the summit of the Col de Bramont itself. However, the pass serves as a strategic junction. From the summit, you can directly connect to the famous Route des Crêtes (the D431), which links the main mountain peaks of the Vosges. This allows you to easily cycle or hike to larger attractions nearby, such as the Col de la Schlucht, the Hohneck, or the Grand Ballon. The climb is enjoyable due to its 12 hairpin bends on the southern flank (Kruth).
7
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Mollau?
Based on komoot data, there are over 20 challenging gravel bike routes in the Mollau area, offering diverse terrain within the Vosges massif.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Mollau?
The terrain around Mollau is diverse, featuring technical singletracks, loamy sections, and areas with rock faces. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, traversing mountainous backdrops and dense forests, often leading to high-altitude clearings.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly gravel bike routes in Mollau?
The gravel biking routes around Mollau are generally considered challenging, with all 22 routes listed in komoot's data rated as 'difficult'. They often involve substantial climbs and varied surfaces, making them more suitable for experienced riders.
What are some notable natural attractions or viewpoints along the gravel routes?
Many routes offer breathtaking views of the Thur valley and the Plain of Alsace. You can also find majestic landscapes around the Grand Ballon, the highest point of the Vosges, and the splendid Ballon Lake, nestled in a glacial cirque.
Are there any long-distance gravel bike routes in the Mollau region?
Yes, for a longer ride, consider the Grand Ballon – Grand Ballon loop from Kruth. This challenging route spans 77.0 miles (124.0 km) and leads through the mountainous terrain of the Vosges, typically taking over 10 hours to complete.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes around Mollau?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are loops. For example, the Markstein – Grand Ballon loop from Geishouse is a popular 40.0-mile (64.4 km) circular trail with substantial climbs.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Mollau?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the challenging climbs, diverse natural environments, and the stunning panoramic views of the Vosges massif and surrounding valleys.
Are there any specific routes that pass by lakes or water features?
Yes, the Kruth Dam – Lake Kruth-Wildenstein loop from Fellering is a challenging 49.1-kilometer route that takes you past the scenic Lake Kruth-Wildenstein.
What is the best season for gravel biking in Mollau?
Mollau, situated in the Vosges massif, offers beautiful riding conditions during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is generally mild and the trails are dry. Winter riding can be challenging due to snow and ice at higher elevations.
Are there any cultural or historical points of interest near the gravel trails?
The region has a rich history, with mentions of 'Mines' in trail names hinting at former mining operations. While specific historical sites directly on gravel trails aren't detailed, the broader area offers cultural attractions like the Parc de Wesserling - Ecomusee Textile and the Musée Serret, which showcases World War I history.
Is public transport available to reach the gravel biking areas around Mollau?
While specific public transport options directly to trailheads for bikes are not detailed, Mollau is nestled within the Vosges massif. It's advisable to check local bus or train services for connections to nearby towns and then plan your ride from there, as direct bike-friendly transport to all trailheads might be limited.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Mollau?
Given that all listed komoot routes are rated as 'difficult' and feature significant elevation changes and varied terrain, Mollau's gravel biking is generally more suited for experienced riders. For families, it might be better to look for easier, dedicated cycling paths in the valley areas rather than the challenging gravel trails.
Most popular attractions around Mollau
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
