The best gravel rides around Malmerspach
4.4
(12)
172
riders
20
rides
Gravel biking around Malmerspach features routes through the mountainous terrain of the Vosges, characterized by significant elevation changes and extensive forest tracks. The region also includes the rolling hills of the Sundgau, offering a network of paths that combine small roads, dedicated bike paths, and forest trails. Further diversity is found in the Alsatian Jura massif, providing varied terrain for gravel-friendly circuits. These landscapes offer options from demanding climbs in the mountains to gentler routes in the valleys.
Best gravel…
Last updated: October 6, 2026
4.5
(2)
23
riders
35.5km
03:03
1,170m
1,170m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
18
riders
74.2km
05:09
1,300m
1,300m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
72.4km
06:17
1,910m
1,910m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
riders
27.4km
01:55
370m
360m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
16
riders
37.3km
02:57
1,020m
1,020m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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
sensational view up to the Alps.
1
0
This old chapel was erected after the French Revolution on the old path to Thann and fell into disrepair over time. In 1932, the community decided to rebuild it. The current small building has a simple nave, an open porch, and a small bell tower with a bell. In front of the chapel stands a statue of the Virgin Mary, which underscores the character of the place as a pilgrimage and devotional site. The chapel is dedicated to the "Mother of God of Perpetual Help" and belongs to the typical small religious monuments of southern Alsace.
1
0
beautiful path to the summit
0
0
The 14th stage led up here to Le Haag and on to the finish at Le Markstein. You could experience the athletes up close.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking trails around Malmerspach?
Gravel biking around Malmerspach is primarily suited for experienced riders due to the mountainous terrain of the Vosges, featuring significant elevation changes and high-altitude passes. Most of the 25 available routes are rated as difficult, with only one moderate option.
Are there any beginner-friendly gravel bike trails in Malmerspach?
While the region is largely characterized by challenging routes, there is one moderate gravel biking trail available. However, most routes involve demanding climbs and high-elevation sections, making them more suitable for experienced riders.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike routes near Malmerspach?
You can expect trails that traverse dense forests and open mountain landscapes. The routes often include demanding climbs and sections along ridge roads, navigating through high-elevation areas and mountain passes like Col de Bramont, Markstein, and Haag Pass.
Are there any loop routes for gravel biking around Malmerspach?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in the Malmerspach area are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Col de Bramont – La route des crêtes loop from Grand Ballon or the challenging Markstein – Haag Pass loop from Grand Ballon.
What are the typical lengths and durations of gravel bike trails in Malmerspach?
The gravel bike trails around Malmerspach vary in length and duration. Many routes are quite long, such as the Markstein – Grand Ballon loop from Geishouse, which is 39.9 miles (64.4 km) and takes about 5 hours 26 minutes. The longest route, Grand Ballon – Grand Ballon loop from Kruth, spans 124 km and can take over 10 hours to complete.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along the gravel bike trails?
The routes often pass by significant natural and historical landmarks. You can encounter the majestic Grand Ballon, the highest peak in the Vosges, or ride through mountain passes like Markstein and Haag Pass. You might also pass Ballon Lake or the scenic Neuweiher Lake.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or accommodation along the routes?
Yes, some routes offer opportunities for breaks. You might find facilities like the Haag Farm, the Grand Ballon Chalet Hotel, or the Gresson Moyen Farm Inn, which can provide refreshments or even accommodation.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Malmerspach?
The gravel biking routes in Malmerspach are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Many of the 180+ visitors praise the challenging mountain passes, high-elevation trails, and the immersive forested sections.
Are there any gravel bike routes that include lakes or dams?
Yes, some routes incorporate beautiful water features. For instance, the Kruth Dam – Lake Kruth-Wildenstein loop from Fellering offers scenic views of the Kruth Dam and Lake Kruth-Wildenstein.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Malmerspach?
Given the high-altitude and mountainous nature of the region, the best time for gravel biking is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October) when the weather is more stable and trails are clear of snow and ice. Winter conditions can make many high-elevation routes impassable.
How many gravel bike trails are available in the Malmerspach area?
There are approximately 25 gravel bike trails available for exploration around Malmerspach, offering a variety of challenging routes through the Vosges mountains.
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