The Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park, founded in 1989, extends over 4 departments, Haut-Rhin, Haute-Saône, the Vosges and the Belfry area. With its 3,000 km² it is one of the largest Natural Parks in France. Here you can find 14 peaks, of which the highest, the Grand Ballon d'Alsace, reaches a height of 1 424 meters.
Those who want to reach the top will have to park their bikes and walk down the hiking trail.
Before or on your return, it is good to stay at 1 of the food and beverage outlets
This beautiful protected area has a beautiful natural and cultural heritage. As for nature, a succession of mountain scenery, round tops and mountain meadows.
The route takes us over Col de Bramont, Col du Haag, Col du Grand Ballon, Col Amic, Col du Hundsruck and along a number of the 1000 lakes.
Partly due to the distance of almost 200 km and the sharp curves in ascending and descending roads, this tour is less suitable for the novice motorcyclist, but definitely worth it when you can appreciate challenging curves and a breathtaking view. Keep in mind, especially in summer time, cyclists who also like to ride the route des Cretes to Des Ballon.
Flora and fauna abound, and characteristic of the mountains: lynx, peregrine falcons, roe deer, mountain goats, gray wolves that have been spotted again since 2011, cranberries, violets, beautiful carnations, sundew ... and medicinal herbs such as the arnica plant.
For me 5 stars because of the view, the quality of the roads. In terms of attractions, this route scores slightly less unless you see the various challenging turns as an attraction.