The Ballon d’Alsace, the first col officially climbed by the Tour de France in 1905, is a must for any cyclist passing through the Vosges. From La Bresse, the climb offers a magnificent ride.
Route from La Bresse
Head to Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle via Cornimont and Le Thillot (25 km, mostly gentle false-flat descent). Then tackle the 9 km climb, 580 m of ascent, average gradient 6.5%.
Total round trip: 65 to 75 km depending on the return, 1,300 m of positive elevation.
The col in numbers
- Altitude: 1,171 m
- Max gradient: 8%
- Pro reference time: 25 minutes
- Regular rider time: 40 to 60 minutes
The feel
Regular, shaded climb, very well surfaced. Busy with cyclists in summer. Monument at the top, panorama over the Doller valley and the Bernese Alps on clear days. Auberge restaurant to refuel.
Combine with
- Loop via the Planche des Belles Filles (very demanding)
- Descent Alsace side down to Lac d’Alfeld
- Refuel at the Langenberg farm-inn
Tips
- Leave early on hot days
- 750 ml bidon minimum
- Windbreaker for the descent
- Favour May, June, September to avoid the heatwave
Book your chalet in La Bresse to make it your cycling base camp in the Vosges.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average gradient of the Ballon d'Alsace climb?
From Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle, the average gradient is 6.5% over 9 km. From Sewen on the Alsace side, 7% over 8.5 km, with pitches up to 11%.
How long is the ride from La Bresse?
Around 65 to 75 km round trip depending on the return route, with about 1,300 m of climbing. Plan for 4 to 5 hours with stops.
Which side is the hardest?
The Sewen (Alsace) side is the steepest, with sustained pitches at 11%. The Saint-Maurice side from La Bresse is regular and more forgiving for long-distance riders.
When is the best season?
May, June and September. July and August are warmer but the road is very busy. The col is usually closed by snow from late November to April.