July is the month of flowering peaks, long evenings and baskets full of bilberries. In La Bresse, high season starts gently before the August peak. Here are 15 ideas to make the most of the month.
1. Hohneck hike
The king of High Vosges summits, 360-degree panoramas, chamois and marmot sightings. See Hohneck hike.
2. Lac de Lispach loop
Easy family walk on boardwalk, ideal at the start or end of the day. See Lispach estate.
3. La Bresse bike park
Green, blue, red and black runs. Rentals on site. See La Bresse bike park 2026 and e-MTB rental.
4. Lake swimming
Gérardmer, Longemer, Xonrupt, Saulxures. The water is fresh but pleasant in July. See Vosges lake swimming.
5. Bilberry picking
Peak around 25 July. Manual comb compulsory. See bilberry picking.
6. Thursday morning market
Farmhouse munster, honey, cured meats, bilberries. See La Bresse market.
7. Mountain inn at the summit
Tofailles, munster, bilberry tart: the Vosges trio. See mountain inns around La Bresse.
8. Route des Crêtes
Legendary panoramic itinerary, accessible by car, bike or motorbike. See Route des Crêtes Vosges.
9. Tree-top adventure
A flagship activity for kids. See La Bresse tree-top adventure.
10. Tendon waterfall
Short walk with a viewpoint over the falls. See Tendon waterfall.
11. Hautes Vosges greenway
By bike or pram, a tarmacked former railway line. See Hautes Vosges greenway.
12. Anice Festival and local events
Several events in July: see La Bresse Anice Festival and the local calendar.
13. Lac des Corbeaux
Small glacial lake ringed by cliffs, swimming forbidden but a magnificent setting. See Lac des Corbeaux.
14. Bilberry Festival (in season)
Foodie festivities in several Vosges communes. See Bilberry Festival.
15. Nordic bath evening
To round off the day: wood-fired Nordic bath under the stars. See Nordic bath chalets.
Suggested 1-week programme
- Monday: arrival plus Lac de Lispach
- Tuesday: Hohneck plus mountain inn
- Wednesday: lake swimming
- Thursday: market plus Tendon waterfall
- Friday: bike park or tree-top adventure
- Saturday: bilberry picking plus festival
- Sunday: Route des Crêtes
Good to know
- Stormy weather in the afternoon in July, leave early
- Sunscreen essential even at altitude
- Ticks: long trousers in undergrowth
- Book the chalet 4 to 6 months ahead
- See also our family summer holidays 7 days guide
Plan your stay
July is one of the best months to discover La Bresse. Choosing the right place to stay is key. Discover our chalets in La Bresse.
Frequently asked questions
Is it hot in La Bresse in July?
Mild temperatures: 22 to 28 degrees C in the valley by day, 15 to 18 at night. At altitude, allow 5 to 8 degrees less.
Is it crowded in July?
Moderate crowds in the first two weeks, busier from 14 July onwards. Far less than the coast or the Alps.
Can you pick bilberries in July?
Yes, peak picking is usually around 25 July. See our picking guide.
Are the lifts running?
Yes, several La Bresse lifts run in summer for the bike park and hiking access.
Should you book in advance?
Yes for chalets and weekend mountain inns. Weekdays are more flexible.