The Vosges mountain range is in the north-eastern part of France in Alsace and offers the most unique experiences of nature in summer as well as in winter. Vosges has a wide supply of sports and leisure activities, culture and traditions as well as spa resorts and gastronomy.
Vosges is the most ideal place for outdoor people with an inclination to outdoor sports and trekking with interesting trips on the many remote paths. 

The landscape of Vosges

The beautiful and varied landscape of Vosges is characterised by valleys, mountains, forests of pine, rivers and lakes. The beautiful light green colour in the spring and the brownish shades of the forests in the autumn tempt many adventurous visitors to go here.

Large cities in Vosges: Gérardmer

The popular holiday city, Gérardmer, is located in the Lorraine-side of Vosges next to a splendid lake. In the winter, the steep slopes that surround the city turn into a ski resort and in the summer, all types of water sports can be performed on the lake. The attractions of the city include beautiful paths along the river and romantic sails on the lake. Nevertheless, most people use the city as a starting point for trips and mountain trekking in the beautiful Vosges Mountains. 

Tourist attractions in Vosges

The little wine village, Kaysersberg, is located at the base of the Vosges Mountains and has preserved its Middle Age appearance. The village is known for its wines and brandy. Many of the houses are of Gothic style with double end walls. Don’t hold yourself off from going to the exciting medieval castle, ”Haut Koenigsbourg”. The castle is a huge experience. You can either take a guided tour or you can walk around on your own.
 
The most beautiful way to experience Vosges is to take the mountain route ”La Route des Crêtes” which was originally a military road that was built around World War I along the western side of the Vosges Mountains. The route offers breathtaking views of Lorraine and connects the Vosges valleys from the pass Col du Bonhomme and further on south through the large, untouched forests to the city of Cernay.

Sports activities in Vosges

Whether you are hiking, climbing, riding, rafting, sailing a canoe or a kayak, cycling, flying, ultra-light flying, fishing, skiing or skating, the landscape in Vosges is an unforgettable experience. You will find 4153 km of trekking routes, 1032 km of cycling routes, 850 creeks with fish, 4 health resorts, 2 golf courses, 36 places to climb and 7 ski resorts.

Gastronomic characteristics of Vosges

A typical meal in Vosges starts with a Vosges salad with dandelions followed by e.g. “Toffailles” which is a delicious dish cooked in white sauce with potatoes, bacon and onions. You will then have a "Brimbelles" pie for dessert. Other specialities from the area are the Géromé cheese, pine honey, local beer, red fruits, mushrooms and wines from Vosges.

The climate of Vosges

Vosges has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. You may, however, find big differences in temperatures locally in the mountains. 

Some of the photos are kindly lent out from Maison de la France. Photographers: Jerôme Berquez.