La Bresse: the ideal gravel base in the Vosges
La Bresse is surrounded by forest roads, gravel tracks (chemins blancs), and small pass roads that make it a superb gravel cycling playground. Less busy than Alpine mountain roads, the Hautes-Vosges offer true immersion in nature with very little motor traffic. Here are the 5 gravel routes the team recommends from La Bresse.
Route 1: The big lakes loop (45 km, 900 m elevation)
Level: intermediate. Duration: 3h to 4h.
This circuit circles the main Vosges lakes on a mix of forest roads and small lanes. It passes Lac de Gérardmer (from La Bresse via the Route des Amis), Lac de Longemer, Lac de Retournemer, and returns via the heights. Gravel sections represent around 30% of the route. Surface: compacted gravel, some earthy sections.
Refreshment stop: bakery in Gérardmer (km 15), Lac de Longemer restaurant (km 25).
Route 2: The passes tour (65 km, 1,400 m elevation)
Level: confident. Duration: 4h30 to 6h.
The flagship gravel circuit in the Vosges. From La Bresse, ascend via forest tracks to Col du Bramont (956 m), then the Route des Crêtes (D430) to Col de la Schlucht (1,139 m), descend to Munster (Alsace side), climb via Col de Firstplan and return via the Munster valley and Lorraine-side forest tracks.
Approximately 40% gravel and forest roads. Tyres of 40 mm minimum recommended. This circuit offers exceptional views over the Alsatian plain from the ridges.
Refreshment stop: restaurant at Col de la Schlucht (km 30), bakery in Munster (km 40).
Route 3: Moselotte valley (35 km, 650 m elevation)
Level: beginner/intermediate. Duration: 2h30 to 3h30.
Ideal for a first gravel outing in the Vosges. This circuit follows the quiet Moselotte valley road, then climbs back via south-facing forest tracks. Elevation is gradual with no sharp spikes. Mixed surface: tarmac (60%) and forest tracks (40%).
A good introduction to the Hautes-Vosges, with a fine view over the village of Ventron mid-route.
Refreshment stop: bar-tabac in Ventron (km 18).
Route 4: The mines road (50 km, 1,100 m elevation)
Level: confident. Duration: 3h30 to 5h.
This historical circuit passes former mining sites in the Vosges massif (silver mines at Le Thillot, iron mines at La Croix-aux-Mines). It combines secondary roads, forest tracks, and some paths. Vegetation is dense and the route very wild, with few inhabited points. Download the GPX file before setting out.
A route reserved for self-sufficient, well-equipped gravel riders.
Route 5: The chaumes loop (28 km, 700 m elevation)
Level: intermediate. Duration: 2h to 3h.
The most spectacular circuit in terms of scenery. It climbs quickly onto the upland chaumes (meadows above 900 m) and rides along the ridge on grassy and gravelly tracks with 360-degree panoramic views. The descent via forest tracks is technical in places. Knobbed tyres strongly recommended.
In June-July, the chaumes are covered in wild flowers: a unique spectacle. Watch out for cows that sometimes graze on the tracks.
Recommended equipment for Vosges gravel cycling
Wide tyres (40 mm minimum, 45-50 mm if your wheels allow). Light rain protection in your bag (storms arrive quickly at altitude). Mini pump and repair kit (punctures common on gravel). GPS or phone with GPX track downloaded offline (no signal possible in forest). Water for 2 to 3 hours depending on heat.
GPX files for Vosges circuits are available on Komoot, Strava, and the La Bresse tourist office website.
Frequently asked questions
What is a gravel bike and is it suited to the Vosges?
A gravel bike sits between a road bike and a mountain bike, with wider tyres (35-50 mm) and a robust frame. It is perfectly suited to the forest roads and gravel tracks of the Vosges.
When are the gravel routes rideable from La Bresse?
Generally from May to October. In May, check the condition of forest tracks which may still be muddy after snowmelt. In July-August, all routes are rideable.
Can you hire a gravel bike in La Bresse?
Gravel hire is still limited in the area. Gérardmer and Épinal have a few hire shops. Ask the tourist office for current providers.
Are there refreshment stops on gravel routes around La Bresse?
Yes, fermes-auberges on the ridges and some pass restaurants (Schlucht, Bramont) allow food and water refuelling. Always set off with 1.5 to 2L of water and energy bars.
Are the Vosges passes difficult on a gravel bike?
Vosges passes (Bramont 956 m, Schlucht 1,139 m, Bussang 731 m) are demanding but accessible. Gradients range from 4 to 8%, with no extreme sections. An e-gravel bike is a good option to enjoy the descents without suffering on the climbs.