Europe’s legendary path, the GR5 links the North Sea to the Mediterranean. In the Vosges, it crosses the massif from north to south, with a magical stretch around the Hohneck and La Bresse.
The Vosges line
- Lauterbourg to Wissembourg: Alsace plains
- Northern Vosges: deep forests, castles
- Col du Donon: first major summit
- Col de la Schlucht: entry to the Hautes-Vosges
- Hohneck, Markstein, Grand Ballon: panoramic ridges
- Ballon d’Alsace: before dropping towards Belfort
The stage around La Bresse
The Col de la Schlucht to Rouge Gazon section runs over the Hohneck, across the summit pastures and drops to La Bresse for the night. 20 km, 800 m of climbing, 6 to 7 hours effective.
Accommodation along the way
- Staffed refuges: Sotré, Rothenbach, Ferme-auberge du Kastelberg
- Stage gîtes in La Bresse, Le Markstein, Wildenstein
- Campsites in the valleys for tight budgets
- Hotels at the Col de la Schlucht
Kit
- 40-50L backpack depending on comfort
- High-cut boots, mid-cut if dry season
- Waterproof and windbreaker no matter what
- GPS or IGN map, GR5 marking well maintained
- Telescopic poles useful on long descents
Best season
June to early October. July-August for the most stable weather, September for colours and quiet, avoid May and late October (late snow, fog).
Tips
- Book refuges 2 to 3 weeks ahead
- Alternate warm beds (gîte) and outdoor nights (tent)
- Plan 1 buffer day in case of bad weather
- Test your backpack on a long day before leaving
Plan a stopover in a chalet in La Bresse to recover mid-traverse in real comfort.
Frequently asked questions
How many days to cross the Vosges on the GR5?
Count 15 to 20 days for the Lauterbourg to Belfort traverse, around 350 km. On targeted stages near La Bresse, 3 to 5 days are enough to get a taste.
Is the trail well marked?
Yes, the GR5 uses the red-and-white blazes of the FFRandonnée. Marking is very well maintained in the Vosges, with regular signposts at cols and intersections.
Where to sleep on the route?
Staffed refuges (Sotré, Rothenbach, Ferme-auberge du Kastelberg), stage gîtes in La Bresse, Le Markstein, Wildenstein, valley campsites, hotels at the Col de la Schlucht.
Is the GR5 hard in the Vosges?
Physically moderate (600 to 900 m of climbing per stage), but daily distance and the altitude swings demand good endurance. Technically accessible to any regular walker.