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Thann-Gebweiler

Sulz/Oberelsass

Top 20 Mountain Passes around Sulz/Oberelsass

Mountain passes around Sulz/Oberelsass are located at the foot of the Vosges mountains in Alsace, France. This strategic position offers access to scenic and historically significant mountain passes. The area is part of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park, providing opportunities for various outdoor activities. Many passes are integrated into the Route des Crêtes, a route known for its mountain vistas.

Best mountain passes around Sulz/Oberelsass

  • The most popular mountain pass is Markstein, a mountain pass that offers…

Last updated: October 13, 2026

Grand Ballon

Highlight • Summit

The Col du Grand Ballon from Moosch is 12.6 km long with a total drop of 949 m. The average gradient is 7.6% with maximum gradients of 14.5%. There are …

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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.

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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 …

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Petit Ballon Pass (1,163 m)

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At 1,163 meters above sea level, the Col du Petit Ballon offers magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and inns. The mountain pastures create a magnificent mountain atmosphere, with the …

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Ascent from Soultz to Col du Grand Ballon

Highlight (Segment) • Climb

The route from Soultz via the Col Amic to the Grand Ballon is the quietest option and leads pleasantly through shady forest on a small, winding road.

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Popular around Sulz/Oberelsass

From the Vosges to the Jura mountains – Hexatrek, le Grand Est

Beautiful passes In the Vosges Mountains

Hiking around Sulz/Oberelsass

Running Trails around Sulz/Oberelsass

MTB Trails around Sulz/Oberelsass

Cycling around Sulz/Oberelsass

Road Cycling Routes around Sulz/Oberelsass

Gravel biking around Sulz/Oberelsass

Mountain Hikes around Sulz/Oberelsass

Other adventures around Sulz/Oberelsass

From the Vosges to the Jura mountains – Hexatrek, le Grand Est

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Luc Gesell

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.

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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

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A challenge on a mountain bike without a motor. But the downhill trails are great. It's worth it 👍🏻

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Bini
April 19, 2025, Grand Ballon

Magnificent views of the valleys and the opposite mountain ranges of the Vosges and fantastic vistas across the Rhine plain to the Black Forest and, in good weather, even to the snow-capped peaks of the Alps!

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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.

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The way up is full of street paintings from the last Tour de France stages that went up there. It's a special feeling even without all the extras and I can recommend everyone to try the climb. Once you're at the top, you have the choice between different descents. I opted for the gravel descent, which was an additional physical challenge as it was very steep and rocky. There is a lovely mountain pasture on the way down where you can recharge your batteries with blueberry cake, coffee and non-alcoholic beer (Ferme Auberge Strohberg). It's also a good place to go if you've "forgotten" your bars and gel.

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Ralph
May 14, 2024, Col du Haag

rather inconspicuous col that is easily missed.

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A worthwhile destination by bike and a nice starting point for hikes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some mountain passes around Sulz/Oberelsass known for their panoramic views?

For breathtaking vistas, consider Markstein, which offers magnificent views on the Route des Crêtes. The Haag Pass also provides impressive mountain vistas, including the Rhine plain, the Black Forest, and on clear days, even the distant Swiss Alps and Montblanc. The Col du Petit Ballon (1,163 m) is another excellent choice, offering magnificent views of the surrounding valleys.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy near the mountain passes around Sulz/Oberelsass?

The region, part of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park, offers a wide array of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and road cycling opportunities. For specific routes, explore the Hiking around Sulz/Oberelsass guide, the Gravel biking around Sulz/Oberelsass guide, or the Road Cycling Routes around Sulz/Oberelsass guide.

Are there family-friendly mountain passes or activities suitable for children?

Yes, the Col de la Schlucht is a versatile destination that caters to families. In summer, it features a summer toboggan run, making it a fun stop for children. It also serves as an excellent starting point for easy hikes and day trips.

When is the best time to visit the mountain passes in the Vosges?

The snow-free months are generally the best time to visit for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the scenic drives. During winter, some passes like Col de la Schlucht transform into popular winter sports hubs with ski lifts, offering a different kind of experience.

What is the Route des Crêtes and which passes are part of it?

The Route des Crêtes is a spectacular tourist route winding through the Vosges mountains, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and numerous viewpoints. Passes like Markstein and Haag Pass are integral parts of this iconic route, offering impressive mountain vistas.

Are there challenging mountain passes for experienced cyclists or hikers?

Absolutely. The Col du Bramont is known for its challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, featuring a 7-kilometer pass with a 385-meter drop and a maximum gradient of 7%. For cyclists, the Ascent from Soultz to Col du Grand Ballon offers a quiet yet rewarding climb through shady forest.

Do any mountain passes have historical significance?

Yes, the Ballon d'Alsace (1,247 m) holds a significant place in cycling history as it was the first pass conquered in the Tour de France on July 11, 1905. Additionally, the Route des Crêtes, which includes passes like the Haag Pass, was originally laid out by French troops as a supply route during World War I.

Are there places to eat or stay near the mountain passes?

Many passes feature charming Alsatian country inns, known as 'Ferme,' which offer refreshments and meals. For example, Markstein has a renowned farm inn nearby, ideal for a lunch break. The Haag Pass also has a cozy Auberge, perfect for a break.

What makes the Col du Petit Ballon unique?

The Col du Petit Ballon (1,163 m) is distinguished by its magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and charming inns. Its mountain pastures create an authentic Vosges atmosphere, making it a dream setting for visitors seeking a genuine mountain experience.

What is the easiest mountain pass to climb for cyclists around Sulz/Oberelsass?

The Climb to Col Amic is considered suitable for climbing at a steady pace. It culminates at 828 meters with an average gradient of 4.8% over 9.6 kilometers, making the slope rather gentle and ideal for a more relaxed ascent.

What kind of natural environment can I expect at these mountain passes?

You can expect diverse natural environments, from dense forests and meadows at Col du Bramont to the open mountain pastures of Col du Petit Ballon. Many passes offer wonderful views of wooded slopes, the Rhine plain, and the Black Forest, all within the scenic Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park.

Is parking available at the mountain passes?

Yes, many mountain passes offer ample parking. For instance, Markstein has good parking space, allowing visitors to park their cars and then explore the area by bike or on foot. Col de la Schlucht also provides ample parking facilities.

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