Top 7 Natural Monuments around Belfort
Best natural monuments around Belfort are found in a region of northeastern France characterized by diverse landscapes. Situated between the Vosges and Jura mountains, the area features extensive forests, lakes, and unique geological formations. These natural features provide opportunities for outdoor activities and connection with nature. The region offers a variety of natural attractions for exploration.
Best natural monuments around Belfort
- The most popular natural monuments is Ballon d'Alsace, a summit that offers panoramic 360-degree views encompassing the Vosges mountains and, on clear days, the distant Alps. This prominent peak is a prime location for hiking with diverse trails.
- Another must-see spot is Rummel Waterfalls, a succession of rapids along the Rummel stream. Visitors can follow a path along the stream to discover the different waterfalls, with the main one featuring a platform for viewing.
- Visitors also love Belles Filles Ponds, a natural site with a small lake. This area is accessible by mountain bike or gravel bike via forest tracks, offering a tranquil setting.
- Belfort is known for its mountains, forests, and lakes. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, including summits, waterfalls, and ponds.
- The natural monuments around Belfort are appreciated by the komoot community, with 6 highlights, over 460 upvotes, and more than 200 photos.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Ballon d'Alsace
Highlight • Summit
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Rummel Waterfalls
Highlight • Waterfall
The main waterfall is equipped with a platform which forms a privileged belvedere to admire it.
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Ballon d'Alsace Inn
Highlight • Restaurant
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Belles Filles Ponds
Highlight • Forest
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The Autrage Oak "The Unparalleled"
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Shelter With Panoramic View, Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Popular around Belfort
Sentier de l'Europe (GR 5) – Montbéliard to Abreschviller
At the foot of the medium mountain — GR 59 from the Vosges to the Jura
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Tips from the Community
Iconic oak tree, creatively decorated like a hobbit treehouse with painted wooden boards. The rest area has picnic tables and sunny and shady spots.
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It's superb but as always in this kind of place avoid busy times if possible.
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It is a beautiful walk with an incline to the summit, which is worth it just for the view all the way to the Alps - if the weather plays along!
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Great selection of cakes, but you don't always get a seat 🙁.
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A legendary pass of the Tour de France to do!
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Carried out after several days of rain, this hike offers beautiful views of numerous waterfalls. The climb is steep, good shoes are necessary. About an hour to reach the small lake at the summit. However, be careful when going down, the rocks can be slippery. Supervision of children recommended.
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Superb view from the Ballon d'Alsace route.
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Steep but very pleasant path along the Rummel and thus allowing you to discover the different waterfalls. We followed it after heavy rains which really offered beautiful waterfalls!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments around Belfort?
Among the most appreciated natural monuments are Ballon d'Alsace, a prominent peak offering panoramic views of the Vosges mountains and sometimes the Alps. Visitors also enjoy the Rummel Waterfalls, a series of rapids along the Rummel stream, and the tranquil Belles Filles Ponds, accessible via forest tracks.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Belfort?
Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. Belles Filles Ponds offers a tranquil setting with easy access for mountain biking or gravel biking. The Autrage Oak "The Unparalleled" is also family-friendly. Additionally, Lac du Malsaucy provides supervised swimming areas, sandy beaches, and a nautical base for activities like kayaking, making it a perfect natural playground for all ages.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Belfort's natural monuments?
The region around Belfort offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling. For specific routes, explore the Mountain Hikes around Belfort guide or the Cycling around Belfort guide. Lac du Malsaucy is ideal for water sports like kayaking and sailing, while its surrounding loops are perfect for hiking and cycling.
Where can I find viewpoints with panoramic scenery?
For breathtaking views, head to Ballon d'Alsace, which offers a 360-degree panorama encompassing the Vosges mountains and, on clear days, the distant Alps. Mont Salbert, near Belfort, also provides panoramic views of the Vosges, Lac du Malsaucy, and sometimes the Alps. The Shelter With Panoramic View, Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges is another excellent spot to enjoy the scenery.
Are there any unique geological features to explore?
Yes, the region boasts fascinating geological formations. The Grotte de Cravanche, on the outskirts of Belfort, features impressive limestone formations and shimmering stalactites, offering a unique underground exploration. Within the city itself, Le Fosse des Diables (The Devil's Pit) is a distinctive sinkhole over 20 meters deep, providing a captivating glimpse into geological processes.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Belfort?
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling through the forests and mountains. Summer is ideal for water sports and swimming at Lac du Malsaucy. In winter, Ballon d'Alsace transforms into a popular ski resort, offering opportunities for winter sports and snowshoeing.
Can I go birdwatching near Belfort?
Absolutely. The Étang des Forges, a preserved natural site close to Belfort, is a haven for birdwatchers, with around 150 different bird species observed from its on-site observatory. Lac du Malsaucy also features a bird observatory, allowing visitors to witness migratory species.
Are there natural monuments suitable for easy walks or cycling?
Yes, many areas are perfect for gentle strolls and bike rides. The Étang des Forges has accessible paths suitable for walkers and cyclists. Lac du Malsaucy is surrounded by various loops ideal for hiking and cycling. Additionally, the extensive forests within the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges offer numerous trails for all skill levels.
What historical significance do some of these natural monuments hold?
The Ballon d'Alsace is historically significant as the site where René Pottier conquered the first pass of the Tour de France in 1905. Mont Salbert also has a hidden NATO fort for those interested in exploring historical curiosities within a natural setting.
Are there any natural monuments that are good for running?
Yes, the region offers several great spots for running. The Running Trails around Belfort guide highlights routes like the 'Lac du Malsaucy and étang de la Veronne — loop' and the 'Etang des Forges loop from Belfort,' both offering moderate difficulty and scenic surroundings.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see around Belfort?
Belfort is nestled between the Vosges and Jura mountains, offering diverse landscapes. You'll find extensive forests, prominent peaks like Ballon d'Alsace, and serene lakes such as Lac du Malsaucy and Étang des Forges. The region also features unique geological formations like the Grotte de Cravanche and the Fosse des Diables, along with picturesque waterfalls like the Rummel Waterfalls.
Are there facilities or shelters available at any of the natural monuments?
Yes, some natural monuments offer facilities. The Shelter With Panoramic View, Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges is semi-open, equipped with a bench and an outdoor fireplace, perfect for picnics. Lac du Malsaucy has a nautical base and supervised swimming areas during summer. The Étang des Forges is equipped with facilities for cyclists and walkers.
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