The Vosges blueberry : a local institution
In the Hautes-Vosges, the wild blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is more than a fruit : it is a tradition. Every summer, families from La Bresse and the surrounding villages head to the moorlands and woodland for the harvest. The berries are small and intensely fragrant, nothing like the supermarket varieties.
The difference comes from the altitude, the acidic soil and the light filtered through the Vosges forest. A blueberry picked on the Hohneck ridges under the July sun is a concentrated flavour you will not find anywhere else.
When to go : the seasonal calendar
The season starts timidly around mid-July on the sunniest slopes. Peak production falls between 25 July and 10 August. During this window, the bushes are heavy, the berries ripe and purple all the way through.
A few practical pointers :
- Low altitude (600-800 m) : ripe around 10-15 July
- Mid altitude (800-1,000 m) : ripe around 20-25 July
- Ridges and high moorlands (1,000-1,200 m) : ripe late July, sometimes early August
The weather plays a big role : a hot June advances the season, a rainy summer delays it. Check with locals or the La Bresse Tourist Office before heading out.
The best spots around La Bresse
The slopes of the Hohneck
The Hohneck (1,363 m) and its surroundings are among the most productive areas. The calluna heathlands and clearings offer ideal conditions. Access from La Bresse via the Route des Crêtes, with parking at the Col de la Schlucht or at the Markstein.
Around the Lac des Corbeaux
The area around the Lac des Corbeaux, a few kilometres from La Bresse village centre, is accessible on foot. The beech and fir woodland surrounding the lake shelters fine blueberry populations. Perfect for combining a swim with some foraging.
The Vosges ridgeline
Between the Col de la Schlucht and the Grand Ballon, the Route des Crêtes runs alongside hectares of moorland. Spot the low bushes with their characteristic oval leaves, pull off the road and explore on foot 200 metres from the tarmac.
Rules to follow
Blueberry picking is permitted in public Vosges forests but subject to guidelines :
- Maximum 5 litres per person per day for personal, non-commercial family use
- No selling without a permit
- Respect the vegetation : do not pull up plants or disturb the forest floor
- Stay on marked paths in Natura 2000 zones
- Take your litter home : picking spots are not picnic dumping grounds
Some areas are protected nature reserves (such as the Réserve de la Schlucht) where picking is strictly forbidden. Always check the status of the area before settling in.
Recipe ideas for your harvest
Wild blueberries are wonderful eaten straight, but they also lend themselves to simple, delicious preparations :
Traditional jam : 1 kg blueberries, 700 g sugar, juice of one lemon. Cook for 20 minutes, pot in sterilised jars.
Vosges tart : a shortcrust pastry base, a light confectioner’s cream, raw blueberries arranged generously on top. No cooking of the fruit.
Mountain smoothie : blueberries, yoghurt, local honey, a pinch of cinnamon.
Clafoutis : replace the cherries with blueberries for a quick, generous dessert.
Homemade liqueur : blueberries macerated for 6 weeks in eau-de-vie with sugar and lemon zest.
Preparing your outing
Checklist before you go :
- Check the weather (avoid afternoon storms at altitude)
- Waterproof walking shoes
- Long clothing (ticks, brambles)
- Blueberry comb or bucket
- Sun cream and a hat
- Water and snacks
The ideal picking outing lasts 2 to 3 hours, preferably in the morning (cooler, fewer people). Expect around 500 g to 1 kg per adult with a good comb on a productive spot.
Frequently asked questions
When is blueberry season in the Vosges ?
The blueberry season generally runs from mid-July to late August, depending on altitude and sunshine that year. The most productive weeks are usually between 20 July and 15 August.
Where can I find blueberries around La Bresse ?
Moorlands and woodland between 700 and 1,200 metres altitude are the most productive zones : the slopes of the Hohneck, the area around the Lac des Corbeaux, and the ridges around the Col de la Schlucht.
How many blueberries can I legally pick ?
In public Vosges forests, the rules generally allow 5 litres per person per day for personal family use. Anything beyond that requires a permit.
Do I need special equipment for picking ?
A blueberry comb (or 'gratte') speeds up picking considerably. Also bring a bucket or jars, clothing that covers your arms and legs, and sturdy walking shoes.
Can I go blueberry picking with children ?
Absolutely, it is a perfect family activity. Choose gently sloping areas, bring snacks and a hat. Children love this little blue treasure hunt.