4.4
(480)
9,227
riders
177
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Murbach are situated in a picturesque wooded valley at the foot of the Grand Ballon, the highest peak in the Vosges Mountains. The terrain features a mix of lush green valleys and mountainous ascents, providing varied cycling experiences. The region is characterized by its diverse landscape, offering both challenging climbs towards prominent peaks like the Grand Ballon and Petit Ballon, and more gentle paths through serene woodlands.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
52
riders
35.2km
03:27
790m
790m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
31
riders
50.0km
05:37
1,790m
1,790m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.

4.5
(2)
23
riders
28.7km
02:55
780m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
20
riders
28.1km
03:08
890m
890m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.0
(4)
20
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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The bare mountain lends itself to beautiful panoramas.
6
0
Le Grand Ballon (1325 m) forms the highest point of the Vosges mountains and is one of the most famous destinations for cyclists in the mountain range. Although the summit itself is slightly higher (1424 m), the mountain pass is located at an altitude of approximately 1325 meters on the side of the Route des Crêtes. From here, vast panoramas open up over the Vosges, the Alsace plain, and on clear days even as far as the Black Forest and the Alps. For cyclists, Le Grand Ballon is a legendary climb. Long and often challenging ascents lead from the various valleys to this iconic mountain. The final kilometers above the tree line offer an impressive scenery of mountain meadows, rocky outcrops, and expansive vistas.
6
0
The Ferme-Auberge du Haag is a traditional mountain inn located near the Col du Haag (1233 m), at the foot of the Grand Ballon. For generations, the farms on the higher Vosges ridges have been welcoming hikers, cyclists, and winter sports enthusiasts. The Haag farm is situated in the middle of mountain pastures, with a beautiful view over the southern Vosges and the Grand Ballon.
6
0
sensational view up to the Alps.
1
0
The ascent to the Col du Firstplan from Soultzbach-les-Bains is steady. The road surface is good and occasionally a tuned car whizzes past. There are few lay-bys on the roadside for a short stop, but at the top of the Col there is a picnic area.
0
0
From waypoint 10 to 11 is absolutely not possible by bike
0
0
Summer 2026: the chalet, its restaurant and the self-service room are closed. Only the tables on the terrace are accessible, but the vegetation has grown. See https://chalethotel-grandballon.com/ : "Dear customers, Due to a lack of staff, the Chalet-Hôtel du Grand Ballon is not able to welcome you at the moment, nor to respond to your reservation requests for the hotel and the restaurant. We have made the decision to close our establishment until we gather the right conditions to resume our activity. Thank you for your understanding The Manager"
1
0
There are nearly 180 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Murbach. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easier rides to more challenging ascents through the Vosges foothills.
The best season for no-traffic touring cycling in Murbach is generally from spring to autumn. During these months, the weather is most favorable, and the natural landscapes, including the wooded valleys and mountain views, are at their most vibrant. While some routes may be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations.
Yes, Murbach offers a selection of easier, no-traffic routes suitable for families. While many routes in the region involve significant elevation, there are approximately 30 routes classified as 'easy' that provide a gentler experience through the valleys and around the historic sites, away from vehicle traffic.
The terrain around Murbach is diverse, ranging from gentle paths in the attractive wooded valleys to challenging ascents into the Vosges Mountains. You can expect a mix of paved surfaces and well-maintained gravel paths on the no-traffic routes, with significant elevation changes as you approach peaks like the Grand Ballon and Petit Ballon.
Many no-traffic touring cycling routes offer stunning views and pass by significant natural landmarks. You can cycle towards panoramic viewpoints such as the Petit Ballon, or explore areas with beautiful water features like the Siehlbaechle Waterfall and Bubalafels Waterfall. The region's diverse landscape ensures scenic beauty throughout your ride.
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Murbach are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the challenging Abbaye de Murbach – Grand Ballon loop from Rimbach-près-Guebwiller, which offers a significant climb and rewarding views. These circular routes are ideal for exploring the region without needing to retrace your steps.
Murbach Abbey itself is a recognized starting point for cycling itineraries, suggesting parking facilities are available nearby. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the individual route details on komoot, as many start from towns like Buhl or Lautenbach which offer designated parking areas for visitors and cyclists.
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Murbach are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the serene atmosphere of the wooded valleys, the challenging yet rewarding climbs to panoramic viewpoints, and the historical charm of the Murbach Abbey as a starting point.
While the immediate vicinity of Murbach Abbey is tranquil, many routes connect to or pass through charming towns and villages in the Haut-Rhin department, such as Guebwiller. These areas typically offer cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options where cyclists can stop for refreshments. It's recommended to check the specific route details for amenities along your chosen path.
While many outdoor areas in France are dog-friendly, specific rules for bringing dogs on cycling routes can vary. Generally, if your dog is well-behaved and kept on a leash, it may be permitted on many paths. However, for the comfort and safety of all users, especially on shared paths, it's always best to check local regulations or specific route guidelines. Ensure your dog is accustomed to cycling alongside you and that you carry water for them.
The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Murbach offer a range of difficulty levels. While there are approximately 30 easy routes, the majority are classified as 'moderate' (around 50 routes) or 'difficult' (nearly 100 routes). This is due to the region's mountainous terrain, with routes often featuring significant elevation gains as they ascend into the Vosges, such as the Panoramic view from the vineyards – Col du Bannstein loop from Buhl.


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