The 10 Most Beautiful Hikes between La Bresse and Gérardmer

Why Hike between La Bresse and Gérardmer?

The Hautes-Vosges offer some of the most beautiful hiking trails in north-eastern France. Between fir forests, glacial lakes and summits with 360° panoramas, the area between La Bresse and Gérardmer is an ideal playground for hikers of all levels.

From Le Repaire de Travexin in Cornimont, all these hikes are accessible within a 10 to 30-minute drive. Here is our selection of the 10 most beautiful routes, tried and tested.

1. Le Hohneck via the Route des Crêtes (1,363 m)

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 3h30 | Distance: 10 km | Elevation: 450 m

The Hohneck is the third highest peak in the Vosges and arguably the most spectacular. From the Col de la Schlucht car park, the trail follows the ridges with breathtaking views of the Alsace plain on one side and the Vosges valleys on the other. On clear days, the Swiss Alps are visible on the horizon.

Our tip: Set off early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise on the ridges. In summer, the high-altitude pastures are covered in wild blueberries.

2. Around Lac de Longemer

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1h30 | Distance: 5.5 km | Elevation: 50 m

Ideal for a family walk, this loop circles Lac de Longemer in an enchanting setting. The trail is nearly flat and offers magnificent views of the lake surrounded by fir trees. In summer, combine it with a swim or a boat trip.

3. La Roche du Diable and Saut des Cuves

Difficulty: Easy to moderate | Duration: 2h | Distance: 6 km | Elevation: 200 m

Starting from Gérardmer, this hike follows the Vologne river through a spectacular gorge. The Saut des Cuves, a series of cascades and potholes carved in granite, is one of the most photographed sites in the Vosges. The Roche du Diable offers a vertiginous panorama over the valley.

4. Lac des Corbeaux from La Bresse

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 2h30 | Distance: 7 km | Elevation: 300 m

Nestled in a glacial cirque, Lac des Corbeaux is the only natural lake in the Vosges where swimming is still freely permitted. The trail descends through dense forest before opening onto this jewel of dark water surrounded by cliffs. The atmosphere is almost Scandinavian.

5. The Sentier des Roches

Difficulty: Difficult | Duration: 4h | Distance: 11 km | Elevation: 550 m

For experienced hikers, the Sentier des Roches between the Col de la Schlucht and Frankenthal is a must. Carved into the cliff face, this alpine trail features exposed sections with cables and a plunging view over the Munster valley. Thrills guaranteed.

Warning: Not recommended in wet weather or with young children. Hiking boots essential.

6. Around Lac de Blanchemer

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 45 min | Distance: 2.5 km | Elevation: 80 m

Just 15 minutes from Le Repaire de Travexin, Lac de Blanchemer is our favourite for a gentle stroll. This small peat-bog lake, surrounded by fir trees and blueberry bushes, exudes a peaceful and wild atmosphere. Perfect for an end-of-day outing before enjoying the Finnish bath.

7. Kastelberg and the High Pastures

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 3h | Distance: 9 km | Elevation: 400 m

From the Col du Brabant (accessible from Cornimont), this loop climbs to the high-altitude pastures of Kastelberg. In autumn, the colours are spectacular: the green of the firs mingles with the gold of the beeches and the red of the blueberry bushes. At the top, farm-inns serve traditional marcaire meals.

8. Cascade de Tendon

Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1h | Distance: 3 km | Elevation: 100 m

The Grande Cascade de Tendon (32 metres high) is the tallest waterfall in the Vosges. A short, well-maintained path leads through the forest. The Petite Cascade, a few hundred metres away, is also worth a visit. Ideal for an excursion with children.

9. Ventron Circuit and Chaume de Ventron

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult | Duration: 4h | Distance: 12 km | Elevation: 500 m

From Ventron (10 minutes from the lodge), this loop climbs to the Chaume de Ventron and its legendary farm-inn. The panorama over the Hautes-Vosges is magnificent. Along the way, you will cross the Ventron Nature Reserve, one of the oldest in France, home to chamois, lynx and capercaillie.

10. The GR5: Lac Blanc – Lac Noir Stage

Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 3h | Distance: 8 km | Elevation: 350 m

The GR5 crosses the Vosges from north to south. The stage between Lac Blanc and Lac Noir, on the Alsatian side, is one of the most beautiful. The two glacial lakes, nestled in their cirques, offer a striking spectacle. It is also an excellent spot for observing chamois at dawn.

Practical Tips for Hiking in the Vosges

• Equipment: Good hiking boots are essential, even on easy trails. The granite rocks can be slippery.
• Weather: Mountain weather changes quickly. Always carry a waterproof jacket, even in fine weather.
• Maps: Trails are well-marked by the Club Vosgien (coloured rectangles). The IGN Rando app is a good complement.
• Farm-inns: Stop at the farm-inns on the ridges for a traditional marcaire meal (pie, roïgabrageldi, farmhouse munster). Booking recommended in summer.
• Season: Hikes are feasible from May to November. In winter, the same trails become snowshoe routes.

Your Ideal Base Camp: Le Repaire de Travexin

Located in Cornimont, in the heart of the Hautes-Vosges, Le Repaire de Travexin is the perfect starting point for exploring all these trails. After a day of walking, enjoy the comfort of a fully renovated house: Finnish bath to soothe your muscles, sauna, fully equipped kitchen for a hearty meal, and a game room for evenings with friends or family.

The house accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 bedrooms with 5 bathrooms — ideal for a hiking trip with friends or a family adventure.

→ Request a quote for your hiking stay

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best season for hiking in the Vosges?

From May to October, with a peak of beauty in June (flowers) and October (autumn colours). Summer can be hot in the valleys but remains pleasant at altitude.

Are the hikes suitable for children?

Yes, several routes such as the Lac de Longemer loop, Lac de Blanchemer or the Cascade de Tendon are accessible from age 5-6. Avoid the Sentier des Roches with children.

Is special equipment needed?

High-ankle hiking boots are recommended for all trails. For difficult routes (Sentier des Roches, Hohneck), walking poles are a plus. In summer, bring sunscreen, water (1.5L minimum) and a hat.

Can you hike with a dog?

Most trails are accessible to dogs on a lead. Dogs are prohibited in the Ventron Nature Reserve to protect the wildlife.