La Route des Crêtes is a 50m/80km ridge road running north-south the Vosges Mountains from the village of Sainte-Marie aux Mines, west of Sélestat, to Cernay, near Thann.
A drive along this former military supply route makes an ideal day trip most of the year, but snow and ice close the passage during the winter. Ski areas are reached by shuttle from several lower-altitude towns.
The Crest Road goes through the Grand Ballon, which is the highest point of the Massif des Vosges. Be sure to stop and climb to the 1,325 f/404 m summit for excellent views over two valleys. At the northern end of the route, a pass called Col du Bonhomme takes you from the region of Alsace into the region of Lorraine.
Hikers and bikers will want to spend some time on the trails that snake over the mountains. Pick up a map and information on guides, bike rental, and tours at the Maison du Parc in La Petite Pierre and Munster.
Winter sports include downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding. One of the largest tourist areas is La Bresse Hohneck, with beginner through expert slopes, rental shops, a theme park and restaurants. On a clear day, you can see the German Black Forest and perhaps the Alps.
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