La Bresse : the ultimate playground for teenagers
Teenagers and family holidays can be a delicate balance. Too tame and they are bored. Too touristy and they switch off. La Bresse hits the right note : it is a real adventure ground with genuine thrills, not artificial attractions.
Between the bike park, via ferrata, canyoning and the lakes, there is enough to keep 12 to 18-year-olds occupied for a full week without once hearing “so what are we doing ?“
10 activities tried and approved by teenagers
1. The La Bresse Hohneck bike park
The La Bresse bike park is a Vosges reference. From green trails for beginners to technical black runs, there is something for everyone. Teenagers who skate or ride BMX particularly love the dirt jump modules.
Full-suspension mountain bike and protective gear hire on site. Chairlift included in the bike park pass.
2. Via ferrata
Clipped to a rockface with harness and helmet : via ferrata always makes an impression. The Vosges offer several sites from initiation to advanced level. From age 12, it is a memorable experience that builds real confidence.
Professional guide instruction available : strongly recommended for first-timers.
3. Canyoning in the Moselotte
Descending a river using the rocks, jumping waterfalls, sliding down natural chutes. Canyoning in the Moselotte gorges is one of the most intense (and wettest) activities in the region.
Beginner level available from age 12. Wetsuit provided. Supervision mandatory.
4. Tree-top adventure and zip lines
Forest tree-top adventure courses in the Vosges offer progressive levels up to spectacular zip line runs. Teenagers particularly appreciate the heights and fast sequences.
Average duration : 2 to 3 hours. From age 10-12 depending on the route.
5. Electric mountain biking on the ridges
For less sporty teenagers (or to get the whole group together), electric mountain biking on the Route des Crêtes is a revelation. You reach the summit without suffering, the view is incredible and the descents still give you a buzz.
Hire available at La Bresse and Gérardmer.
6. The Hohneck hike
Yes, hiking can enthuse teenagers, provided you choose a sufficiently symbolic goal. The Hohneck (1,363 m, the third highest summit in the Vosges) is that goal : you push yourself a bit, you reach the top and you feel proud. The view from the summit justifies everything.
7. Swimming at the Lac des Corbeaux
Simple and effective. A mountain lake, water at 18-20 degrees, rocks to jump from (with care). Teenagers love this kind of place, free from excessive supervision. Responsibly independent.
8. Wake park or paddleboarding
On the Lac de Gérardmer or Longemer, some operators offer wake parks (sliding behind a cable like behind a motorboat) and paddleboarding. Activities that chime with surf and skate culture and go down well with teenagers.
9. Outdoor rock climbing
Natural boulder problems are accessible in the Vosges, along with equipped sport climbing routes. With instruction, it is a technical activity requiring concentration and problem-solving without being physically exhausting.
From age 12, all levels.
10. A night at a mountain refuge
The ultimate experience : sleeping at the Hohneck refuge or in a trail gîte at altitude. Sleeping under the stars possible in good weather. For teenagers, it is often the memory that lasts longest.
Practical advice for parents
- Involve teenagers in the choices : offer 3 options and let them decide
- Keep the schedule flexible : no more than 2 structured activities per day
- Average budget : €25 to €50 per teenager per supervised activity
- Kit : waterproof walking shoes, fleece layer, cap and sun cream
- Phones : let them photograph their adventures, it is how they fully experience them
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for via ferrata at La Bresse ?
Most via ferrata accessible from La Bresse accept children from 10-12 years old depending on the route. Beginner level is suitable from age 12 with supervision. Check conditions with the provider.
Is the La Bresse bike park suitable for beginners ?
The La Bresse bike park has trails for all levels, including green and blue routes for beginners. Mountain bike and protective gear hire is available on site.
Is there a zip line at La Bresse ?
Zip lines are available as part of tree-top adventure and forest activity courses in the La Bresse area. Providers vary by season : check with the Tourist Office.
Is canyoning safe for teenagers ?
Canyoning with professional, certified guides is very safe. Beginner outings are designed for participants with no previous experience from age 12. Avoid unsupervised practice.
What is there to do at La Bresse in wet weather with teenagers ?
In wet weather, teenagers can head to indoor climbing, refuge games, cheese farm visits or the covered leisure facilities at Gérardmer 20 minutes away. Indoor karting is also accessible in the area.