This route in the Vosges is the second part of the loop, which starts and ends at the well-known Moto-hotel Col de Bussang, located in the municipality of Bussang. The starting point of this part is the excellent restaurant Auberge Gazon Du Faing. (see link 1)

A few kilometres after the start, the Col de la Schlucht is already up. Incidentally, this is the highest mountain pass in the Vosges with an altitude of 1139 m. This pass connects the Vosges with Alsace. In winter, it is an important ski area and in summer the starting point of many hiking trails.

Past the summit, take the left turn to stop a little further on at the Jardin botanique du Haut-Chitelet. The Haut Chitelet high-altitude garden offers its visitors the chance to discover 2,500 species of alpine plants from various mountain regions around the world. A stone's throw from Hohneck, primroses, gentians, blue poppies, edelweiss and many more flowers bloom in landscaped rockeries.
A peat bog and a high-altitude beech forest, two characteristic natural areas of the Hautes-Vosges, complete this botanical world trip. Definitely recommended for plant lovers. (see link 2)

After a walk in the alpine garden, you continue to the turnoff to the Hohneck. The summit "Le Hohneck", with 1363m the third highest of the Vosges, is located in La Bresse. From there you can see Alsace, and with clear weather the Black Forest and even the Alps. On the mountain there is a mountain hut with restaurant and a shop. One of the better viewpoints in the Vosges.

After the short stop, it goes back down to continue the planned route. Be careful at route point 5, there is a very sharp turn to the right towards Col du Bramont.

Once you have passed this peak, a beautiful series of 14 hairpin bends awaits you. Here, the edges of your tires will disappear without any problem, before you reach the Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein. Do pay attention to route point 8, because you leave the D13B to the left towards Le Markstein.

Another resounding name in this area, especially since several roads meet at this summit. In winter it is a ski area with blue and green slopes, suitable for beginners.

The next peak after Le Markstein is perhaps the most famous - namely Le Grand Ballon. Due to the semi-circular shape, some mountain peaks here are given the name Ballon. And this is the highest... There are a few bar-restaurants, a large parking lot and the view is spectacular in clear weather. That is also the reason why most passers-by stop here for a while. If you prefer it a bit quieter, there are other possibilities to eat something.

Then there is the Hartsmannswillerskofp. Not only a mountain top, but also a memorial site. During the First World War, fierce battles took place here between the French and the Germans. You will find a military cemetery with a chapel, but also some trenches and bunkers. For those interested in this war and history in general, a very interesting place to visit. (see link 3)

A little further on you can leave the Route des Crêtes for a drink break on the Molkenrain. To do this, take the dead-end road to the right until the end. The Auberge du Molkenrain has a terrace with a beautiful view of the lower terrain. For enthusiasts, it is also the perfect place to let the drone out for a while. It is less crowded than at many other highlights. (see link 4)

Back down, you will stay on the Route des Crêtes for a while, but it ends just before Cernay. It will be a bit busier, but after a few kilometres, you will leave the D1066 again in Bitschwiller-les-Thann. Col du Hundsruck is next. This road was built in the First World War to better supply the French troops. That is one of the only positive consequences of this war, because it is quite a nice road.

A little further, at the beginning of the Col Ballon d'Alsace mountain pass, is the Lac d'Alfeld reservoir. The Germans dammed the river with a 30 m high dike to raise the water level of the lake. This happened between 1883 and 1888. At that time it was a real technical feat. A walk on the dike and you will certainly enjoy the surrounding nature and views.

Finally, the last highlight of this ride - Col Ballon d'Alsace. Usually it is much less crowded there, especially in the late afternoon. With some luck, the lower sun spreads a warm, soft light over the landscape. Then it is really enjoyable.

On the way back to the hotel you can still fill up in Bussang. Note that this is a smaller petrol station, so not ideal for larger groups.

After this ride you can tick off most of the Cols in this beautiful region and, tired but satisfied, enjoy the local cuisine, accompanied by the necessary fluids in Motohotel Col de Bussang (see link 5)