With its 506 hectares of high pastures, peat bogs and high-altitude beechwoods, the Tanet Gazon du Faing national nature reserve is one of the most protected natural sites in the High Vosges. Thirty minutes from La Bresse, you cross it on foot via the GR5. Here is the rundown.
Why this reserve is exceptional
Created in 1988, it protects a set of features unique in France:
- The largest raised peat bog in the Vosges
- A residual population of capercaillie
- Relict high-altitude flora from the glaciations
- Panoramic views over the Vosges and the Alsace plain
- Open ridges reminiscent of high mountain country
How to get there
Three main entry points:
- Col de la Schlucht (1,139 m): car park, direct start on the GR5
- Col du Calvaire (1,134 m): car park, access to the Gazon du Faing
- Lac Vert: valley on the Alsatian side
From La Bresse, allow 30 to 40 minutes by car via the Col de la Schlucht.
Recommended itineraries
Classic loop
- Col de la Schlucht to GR5 to Tanet summit to Gazon du Faing and back
- 12 km, 4h30, 350 m of climb
- Easy to moderate
Short out-and-back
- Col de la Schlucht to peat bog observatory and back
- 4 km, 1h30
- Easy, ideal for families
Long variant
- Combines Hohneck, Tanet and Gazon du Faing
- 18 km, 6 to 7 hours
- Demanding
Strict rules to follow
- Stay on marked trails
- No picking (bilberries, flowers, mushrooms)
- Dogs on lead, ideally left at home
- No bivouac, no fire
- No drones, no mountain bikes, no horses
- No loud music
- Litter: pack out everything you pack in
- Respect the signposted capercaillie quiet zones
Fauna and flora to look out for
- Chamois on the ridges
- Peregrine falcon in the cliffs
- Alpine pasqueflower, arnica, gentian
- Sundew, cranberry in the peat bogs
- Lichens and sphagnum on the stunted beech
To dig deeper into the species, see our Vosges wildlife and alpine flowers guides.
Good to know
- Frequent fog on the ridges: warm gear and a compass
- Strong winds possible all year round
- No food or water on the reserve, bring your own
- Toilets only at the Col de la Schlucht
- In winter, the crossing requires snowshoes and experience
Plan your visit
Combine the reserve with a tour of the regional natural park or a descent towards the surrounding peat bogs. To stay nearby, discover our chalets in La Bresse.
Frequently asked questions
How do you reach the reserve?
From the Col de la Schlucht or Col du Calvaire. Free car parks, GR5 trail crosses the reserve.
Is picking allowed?
No, all picking is forbidden in the reserve: bilberries, flowers, mushrooms, minerals.
Can you go with a dog?
Dogs are tolerated on a short lead. It is better to leave them at home to protect the wildlife.
What rare species can you see?
Capercaillie (very rare), peregrine falcon, sundew, gentian, pasqueflower, sulphur anemone. Unique flora in the peat bogs.
Are there seasonal restrictions?
Yes, certain capercaillie quiet zones are closed from December to June. Follow the signage.