The best cycling routes around Fresse
4.3
(288)
6,696
riders
213
rides
Touring cycling around Fresse offers varied terrain within the uplands of the Vosges Saônoises, characterized by rural and mountain scenery. The region features challenging ascents, including routes near the notable Ballon d'Alsace and La Planche des Belles Filles. Cyclists can find perfectly asphalted roads, often with minimal car traffic, winding through areas with dense vegetation. This landscape provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best touring cycling routes around Fresse
- The most popular touring cycling route is Chevestraye Pass –…
Last updated: October 29, 2026
4.9
(8)
265
riders
18.1km
01:35
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
120
riders
21.5km
01:26
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.7
(14)
84
riders
36.9km
02:25
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(2)
667
riders
35.4km
02:40
870m
870m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(4)
44
riders
30.0km
03:01
1,120m
1,120m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
La Planche des Belles Filles is a 5.8 kilometer climb. It is a category 1 climb. It is located in Plancher Les Mines, Franche-Comté, France. The average gradient of this climb is 8.6% with a maximum of 13.6%. La Planche des Belles Filles climbs from 527 meters at the start to 1,033 meters at the summit, for a total elevation gain of 506 meters.
7
0
This 5.9-kilometer climb from the village of Plancher-les-Mines in Haute-Saône is one of the most difficult in the Vosges. Indeed, cyclists who want to try it will need to be at least somewhat trained. With a gradient of 24% towards the end of the route, it's better to be well-attached. The gradient never seems to ease, with its hairpin bends and, upon reaching the resort, the last 2 kilometers rise like a wall. However, you'll be able to say that you've done it, so come and try the climb of La Planche too!
8
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Dit historische washuis is een lokaal erfgoedmonument en draagt het herkenbare mijnmainsignia met een hamer en een pointerol (een mijnterreinwerktuig), wat verwijst naar de rijke mijnbouwgeschiedenis van de regio.
8
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Plancher‑les‑Mines is a small mountain village on the edge of the Vosges, surrounded by dense forests and the steep flanks of the Ballon de Servance. The village owes its name to its mining history: from the 17th century onwards, iron ore was extracted here, which shaped the village and brought a period of local prosperity. Many of the old structures have disappeared, but the château-style town hall still recalls that time of industrial ambition and village prestige.
9
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A house in Plancher‑Bas with a bicycle installation on the roof — a playful tribute to the region's cycling tradition. Between the green hills and the red roof tiles, you can already feel the spirit of the climbs here: La Planche des Belles Filles, Ballon de Servance, Ballon d’Alsace. The Vosges live and breathe cycling.
8
0
Super tough to get there...
0
0
It starts gently... but that's just the beginning.
1
0
Long hesitated to do it. Short but very hard, with the Pinot turn and the last ramp of the super board to tell yourself that it's really hard.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Fresse?
There are over 200 touring cycling routes documented around Fresse on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the Vosges Saônoises region.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Fresse?
Yes, Fresse offers around 40 easy touring cycling routes. These paths are generally less demanding, allowing for a relaxed exploration of the region's tranquil environment and picturesque landscapes.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the Fresse area?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Fresse is known for its difficult ascents. Routes like the Chevestraye Pass – La Planche des Belles Filles loop from Fresse feature significant elevation gain towards the renowned La Planche des Belles Filles summit. Another demanding option is the Chevrères Pass – La Planche des Belles Filles loop from Plancher-les-Mines, which covers nearly 60 km through challenging mountain terrain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Fresse?
Yes, many routes around Fresse are designed as loops. For example, the Mélisey loop from Fresse is a moderate 16.6 km circular route, perfect for a shorter ride. For a more challenging option, consider the Ballon de Servance loop from Plancher-les-Mines.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while cycling in Fresse?
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical cycling landmarks. You can cycle towards the famous Ballon d'Alsace, a historic Tour de France pass, or challenge yourself on the slopes of La Planche des Belles Filles. The Ballon de Servance also offers scenic views and challenging climbs. Additionally, the area features the impressive Jump Ognon waterfall and the tranquil Plateau of a Thousand Lakes.
Are there any lakes or water features accessible by bike around Fresse?
Yes, the region around Fresse, particularly the Plateau of a Thousand Lakes and Saône Vosges, offers several beautiful water features. You can find highlights such as the Étang de la Peau and Étang de la Mer, which provide serene spots along your cycling journey.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Fresse?
The touring cycling routes around Fresse are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 240 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the challenging ascents, and the scenic backdrop of the Vosges Saônoises, noting the perfectly asphalted roads and often minimal car traffic.
Are there routes with good shade for cycling during warmer months?
Yes, some routes in the Fresse area are known for their shaded sections. For instance, the ascent to the Servance balloon from Plancher-Bas, which is part of the Ballon de Servance loop, is largely shaded in summer due to dense vegetation, providing a more comfortable ride on warmer days.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Fresse?
The terrain around Fresse is characterized by the uplands of the Vosges Saônoises, offering a mix of rural and mountain scenery. You can expect varied surfaces, from perfectly asphalted roads on challenging climbs like La Planche des Belles Filles to quieter trails winding through dense vegetation. The region provides options for both moderate paths and difficult mountain climbs.
Is there a route that combines historical significance with a good cycling experience?
Absolutely. The region is home to the Ballon d'Alsace, which holds historical significance as the first pass conquered in the Tour de France in 1905. Cycling routes in its vicinity offer both a connection to cycling history and a rewarding experience through picturesque landscapes.
Can I find routes that are less frequented by cars?
Many of the roads in the Fresse area, especially those leading to challenging summits like La Planche des Belles Filles or the Servance balloon, are known for having relatively minimal car traffic. This allows for a more peaceful and immersive cycling experience through the natural environment.
Most popular attractions around Fresse
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