La Bresse: a leading MTB destination in the Vosges
With its fir forests, passes, forest trails, and summer bike park, La Bresse is one of the best mountain biking destinations in the Vosges massif. The varied topography suits both beginners discovering off-road cycling and confident riders seeking thrills. Here is the level-by-level guide.
Beginner level: discovering MTB gently
Lakes circuit (15 km, 250 m positive elevation)
Perfect for first kilometres on an MTB. This circuit passes Lac de Lispach and Lac du Devin on wide, well-maintained forest tracks. Some short, gradual climbs and gentle descents. Suitable from age 12 with reasonable fitness. Start: Lac de Lispach car park.
The chalets loop (12 km, 200 m elevation)
Family circuit on forest tracks and small roads, passing several traditional Vosges chalets. Surface is mostly compacted gravel. Few technical sections: ideal for beginners. Duration: 1h30 to 2h.
Refreshment point: Ferme-auberge du Chitelet, open in season for drinks and snacks.
Intermediate level: progressing on terrain
The Moselotte sources circuit (25 km, 600 m elevation)
This more committing circuit follows the contours of the Moselotte valley with some singletrack sections. Elevation is gradual and the descents offer good sensations without being overly technical. Duration: 2h30 to 3h30. Surface: compacted earth, forest tracks, some rocky sections.
The Hohneck MTB loop (35 km, 900 m elevation)
A circuit around the Hohneck massif with ascent via forest tracks and descent on the Alsatian slopes. Good variety of terrain. Reasonable fitness required. Duration: 4 to 5h.
Refreshment point: restaurant at Col du Schlucht (summit, around km 20).
Expert level: for seasoned riders
La Bresse Hohneck bike park descents
The resort opens its ski lifts in summer for mountain bikers. Several marked descents:
- Green run (beginner, 2 km)
- Blue run (intermediate, 3.5 km with some jumps)
- Red run (confident, 4 km with drops and technical sections)
- Black run (expert, 4.5 km, full technical mastery required)
Full-face helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads are strongly recommended on red and black runs.
The ridge circuit (55 km, 1,600 m cumulative elevation)
The Vosges ridge circuit on MTB is a serious undertaking. It largely follows the Route des Crêtes (D430) and adjacent forest trails, from Col du Bramont to the Hohneck and back. Varied terrain: forest roads, technical singletrack, rocky sections. Duration: 5 to 7h for experienced riders.
Essential: sufficient food and water for the day, repair tools, spare inner tube. Fermes-auberges along the route allow mid-ride refuelling.
Where to hire a mountain bike in La Bresse
Several hire shops offer standard and electric MTBs in La Bresse and Gérardmer. Rates are generally 20 to 40 euros per day for a standard MTB, 40 to 70 euros for an e-MTB. Book ahead in July-August. The tourist office can point you towards reliable providers.
Tips for riding in La Bresse
The Vosges massif is wet: even in summer, trails can be slippery after rain. All-round tyres with good tread are advisable. Weather changes fast at altitude: always pack a windproof jacket.
On shared trails with walkers, always give way to pedestrians. The Club Vosgien and local hiking associations appreciate this courtesy being respected.
Frequently asked questions
Can you hire a mountain bike in La Bresse?
Yes, several hire shops offer standard and electric mountain bikes (e-MTB) in La Bresse and Gérardmer. Ask the tourist office for a current list of providers.
Is there a bike park in La Bresse?
La Bresse Hohneck has a bike park with marked descents and ski lifts open in summer. Green, blue, red, and black runs are available depending on your level.
Are the MTB trails open all year in La Bresse?
Forest trails are generally accessible from April to November. The La Bresse Hohneck bike park typically runs from June to September. Check opening dates with the resort.
What equipment is needed for mountain biking in La Bresse?
Helmets are compulsory on the bike park. For forest circuits, helmet, gloves, and glasses are recommended. A well-maintained bike with efficient brakes is essential given the Vosges terrain.
What level is required to ride the ridge tour by MTB from La Bresse?
The Vosges ridge tour is reserved for experienced riders: over 1,500 m of cumulative elevation on 50 to 60 km, with technical singletrack sections. Minimum confident level required.