The Vosges forests, a mosaic of beech, fir, spruce and Douglas, hold exceptional trees. Some exceed 50 m in height or 400 years of age. Here are 10 giants to discover on your walks around La Bresse.
1. The President Fir of Saint-Amé
Silver fir over 50 m tall, one of the highest in France. Access via marked trail from Saint-Amé.
2. The twisted beech of Faulx
Rare genetic variation of the beech, with contorted branches. Listed site, free access.
3. The Donon Douglas firs
Planted in the 19th century, some reach 55 m. Marked discovery trail.
4. The Partisans’ Oak (Cornimont)
Centuries-old oak, a place of memory of the Resistance. Accessible by forest track.
5. The stunted beeches of the Hohneck
At 1,300 m altitude, beech trees take on tortured shapes from wind and rime ice. Spectacular in winter.
6. The Devil’s Kitchen Fir
Monumental silver fir in the Champ state forest. Local legend tied to a nearby boulder.
7. The Plombières-les-Bains sequoias
Planted at the time of the thermal baths. Several exceed 35 m in height. Free visit in the spa park.
8. The Lime Tree of La Bresse village square
Symbolic tree planted in the 19th century. Centre of the village, worth a look during a stroll around the La Bresse market.
9. The Lispach spruces
Mature forest around the lake, some trees over 35 m. Combine with a visit to the Lispach estate.
10. The Devil’s Rock beech
On the Sentier des Roches, a twisted beech clinging to the cliff. Spectacular in autumn.
Understanding the Vosges forest
Three vegetation belts overlap:
- 800 to 1,100 m: beech-fir mix, the heart of the Vosges
- 1,100 to 1,300 m: spruce-fir, dominated by conifers
- 1,300 m and above: stunted beeches, then high pastures
The Vosges forest is managed by the ONF on public land, on a sustainable basis.
Good to know
- Many forest tracks are closed to motor traffic
- Respect signposted logging operations
- No dead wood gathering without authorisation
- Watch out for windthrow in high wind
- Risk of falling branches in damp fir stands
Recommended themed trails
- Sentier des Roches: flora and remarkable trees
- Cornimont discovery trail
- Géhant state forest
- Lac de Lispach loop
Plan your nature walk
To make the most of the Vosges forests, base yourself in La Bresse at the heart of the massif. Discover our chalets in La Bresse with direct trail access, and combine with our autumn in La Bresse guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is a remarkable tree?
A tree exceptional in age, size, shape, history or rarity. Many are listed by the ONF (French forestry office) or by associations.
Can you touch them or climb on them?
Touch yes, with respect. Climbing no: it damages the bark and compacts the soil around the roots.
How do you reach these trees?
Most are accessible on foot via marked trails. GPS coordinates available on the tourist office websites.
Are there sequoias in the Vosges?
Yes, several giant sequoias planted in the 19th century, especially in parks and former estates.
What is the best season to see them?
All year, with a special mention for autumn (broadleaf colours) and winter (silhouettes of the giants).