The Col de la Schlucht : gateway to the Hautes-Vosges
The Col de la Schlucht is not just a mountain pass : it is a crossroads of sensations. At 1,139 metres altitude, it marks the frontier between Lorraine and Alsace, between the world of dark fir trees and golden vineyards. On a clear day, the view plunges down to the Alsace plain, with the Alps visible on the horizon on particularly fine days.
From La Bresse, the col is just 25 minutes by car. It makes a perfect starting point for half-day or full-day excursions.
Hikes from the col
The Hohneck from the Schlucht (out and back)
Distance : 10 km | Elevation : 280 m | Duration : 3h30 | Difficulty : moderate
The Hohneck is the third highest summit in the Vosges (1,363 m). From the Col de la Schlucht, the path follows the ridge via the Petit Hohneck. The view over the moorlands, the Lorraine lakes and the Alsace plain is exceptional. Expect some exposed sections to the wind, especially at the summit.
The Lac Vert and Lac des Truites (loop)
Distance : 8 km | Elevation : 200 m | Duration : 2h30 | Difficulty : easy
This accessible loop from the col passes two lakes with contrasting colours. The Lac Vert (emerald green from algae) and the Lac des Truites (wilder, more remote) offer contemplative breaks and great photo opportunities. Suitable for families with children aged 6 and over.
The GR5 towards the Grand Ballon (northbound)
For experienced walkers, the GR5 heads south from the Schlucht, crossing the high moorlands and the summer chalets, before reaching the Grand Ballon (1,424 m, the highest point in the Vosges) after a full day’s walking.
The Haut-Chitelet Botanical Garden
Three kilometres from the Col de la Schlucht (towards La Bresse), the Haut-Chitelet botanical garden is a cultural and floral highlight. Founded in 1966, it extends over 14 hectares at 1,228 metres altitude and displays more than 2,000 species of mountain plants from around the world.
Open June to September, entry is free or at a modest cost. Wild orchids, edelweiss and rhododendrons grow in reconstructions of Alpine, Andean and Japanese environments. Allow at least an hour to make the most of it.
Viewpoints not to miss
The Tanet rock (360-degree view)
Twenty minutes on foot from the col, the Tanet rock offers a circular panorama over the Vosges, the Alsace plain and, on exceptional days, the Swiss Alps. It is one of the most photographed viewpoints in the Hautes-Vosges.
The orientation table at the col
An orientation table is installed at the col itself. Useful for identifying visible summits and understanding the geography of the Vosges. Accessible by car, ideal with children or less mobile visitors.
Cycling access
From La Bresse (Lorraine side)
The climb from La Bresse via the D34 is steady and not too steep. Around 12 km, 450 m of positive elevation. Accessible on a mountain bike or road bike for intermediate cyclists. Electric bikes change everything for those who want the views without the pain.
From Munster (Alsace side)
The climb from Munster is longer (20 km) but legendary for cyclists. It features in several amateur events in the region and has appeared in the Tour de France route historically.
The ridgeline greenway
A dedicated cycle path runs along the ridges between La Schlucht and the Markstein. It allows altitude cycling without sharing the Route des Crêtes with motor traffic. Ideal for families.
Practical tips
- Weather : the col can be in cloud even when La Bresse is sunny. Check altitude forecasts before heading out.
- Clothing : wind can be cold even in midsummer. Always bring a warm layer.
- Food : a restaurant operates at the col. Food trucks are present on summer weekends.
- Parking : free car park at the col, sometimes full at weekends. Arrive early.
Frequently asked questions
What altitude is the Col de la Schlucht ?
The Col de la Schlucht sits at 1,139 metres altitude, on the border between the Bas-Rhin and the Vosges. It marks the watershed between the Lorraine and Alsace slopes.
How do you get to the Col de la Schlucht from La Bresse ?
La Bresse is about 15 km from the Col de la Schlucht via the D34 and then the Route des Crêtes. Allow 25 minutes by car. Several paths also connect La Bresse to the col on foot.
Is there a botanical garden near the Col de la Schlucht ?
Yes, the Haut-Chitelet botanical garden is a few kilometres from the col. It displays more than 2,000 species of mountain plants from around the world and is open from June to September.
Can you cycle to the Col de la Schlucht ?
Yes, the col is a classic cycling route. The climb from Munster (Alsace side) or from La Bresse (Lorraine side) is a fine sporting challenge. Cycle paths also run along the ridges.
What hikes are possible from the Col de la Schlucht ?
From the col, you can reach the Hohneck (highest Vosges summit at 1,363 m), the Lac Vert, the Lac des Truites, or walk sections of the GR5. The hikes are marked and vary in difficulty.