The best cycling routes around Belfahy
4.4
(179)
4,891
riders
68
rides
Touring cycling around Belfahy offers routes through the Vosges mountains, characterized by significant elevation changes and forested landscapes. The region features numerous cols and peaks, providing challenging climbs and descents for cyclists. Terrain often includes a mix of paved roads and gravel sections, winding through valleys and past high points. This area is known for its natural beauty and varied topography, suitable for experienced touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Belfahy
- The most popular touring cycling route is Col…
Last updated: October 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
1,036
riders
43.3km
03:14
1,020m
1,020m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(8)
265
riders
18.1km
01:35
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
44
riders
30.0km
03:01
1,120m
1,120m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
34
riders
14.1km
01:10
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
29
riders
26.0km
01:58
670m
670m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The center of Le Thillot lies in the valley of the Moselle and forms a small but lively village heart. On the Place du 8 Mai stands the 19th-century Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, surrounded by bakeries, cafés, and local shops. It is a compact, well-organized center with a mix of Vosges architecture, daily amenities, and a quiet village atmosphere. The bakery facade caught my attention.
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The former train station of Le Thillot (la gare du Thillot) is a historic monument that played a central role in the region's transformation. Opened in 1879 on the railway line between Épinal and Bussang, the SNCF definitively closed the station in 1989. The building has been completely renovated and now houses the Maison des Hautes‑Mynes, the visitor center for the historic copper mines. The former railway bed has been transformed into the Voie Verte des Hautes‑Vosges, a car-free cycle path connecting Remiremont with Bussang. Directly next to the station also starts the Voie du Tacot, an educational route along the old narrow-gauge railway line.
7
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De Col des Croix is a 679-meter-high mountain pass in the French Vogezen massif, located on the border of the Vosges and Haute-Saône departments. The pass forms an accessible connecting road (the D486) between the northern Le Thillot and the southern Servance. At the top, you will find the well-known Le Chalet Snack du Col des Croix, and the road splits towards the D16 (Route des Forts), the route that continues to the higher Ballon de Servance.
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The end of the climb is somewhat disappointing. There is nothing marked. No photo opportunity. You have a small parking lot, a closed military road, and a picnic spot well hidden under the trees. At the two yellow signs (mainly for hikers) there is the only indication that you are at the Ballon de Servance and at 1158 m. The climb is "cozy". No cars, completely shaded, a few kilometer markers.
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La Planche des Belles Filles is a 5.8 kilometer climb. It is a category 1 climb. It is located in Plancher Les Mines, Franche-Comté, France. The average gradient of this climb is 8.6% with a maximum of 13.6%. La Planche des Belles Filles climbs from 527 meters at the start to 1,033 meters at the summit, for a total elevation gain of 506 meters.
7
0
This 5.9-kilometer climb from the village of Plancher-les-Mines in Haute-Saône is one of the most difficult in the Vosges. Indeed, cyclists who want to try it will need to be at least somewhat trained. With a gradient of 24% towards the end of the route, it's better to be well-attached. The gradient never seems to ease, with its hairpin bends and, upon reaching the resort, the last 2 kilometers rise like a wall. However, you'll be able to say that you've done it, so come and try the climb of La Planche too!
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Super tough to get there...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Belfahy?
There are over 60 touring cycling routes in the Belfahy area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The majority of these routes are considered difficult, with a good selection of moderate and a few easy paths also available.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Belfahy?
While Belfahy is known for its challenging terrain, there are a few easier touring cycling routes. The region features significant elevation changes, so even 'easy' routes may include some climbs. Currently, there are 7 routes classified as easy.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Belfahy?
Touring cycling routes around Belfahy typically feature a mix of paved roads and gravel sections. You'll navigate through the Vosges mountains, characterized by dense forests, numerous cols, and significant elevation changes, providing both challenging climbs and descents.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Belfahy?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Belfahy are designed as loops. For example, you can try the difficult Col des Croix – Former Le Thillot station loop from Miellin, which covers 23.1 miles (37.2 km), or the challenging La Planche des Belles Filles – Top loop from Planche des Belles Filles, a 7.3 miles (11.7 km) path with a notable climb.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced touring cyclists will find plenty of challenges in Belfahy. Routes like the Nice gravel section – Between the Peaks loop from Les Roches offer varied terrain, gravel sections, and over 1100 meters of elevation gain over 20.8 miles (33.4 km). Another demanding option is the Ballon de Servance loop from Plancher-les-Mines, covering 25.9 miles (41.7 km) with significant climbing.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Belfahy?
The routes often pass by significant natural landmarks. You can encounter mountain passes such as Col des Croix and Chevrères Pass. Many routes also lead to prominent summits like Ballon d'Alsace, La Planche des Belles Filles, and Ballon de Servance, offering panoramic views.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Belfahy?
The best time for touring cycling in Belfahy is typically from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and the mountain passes are clear of snow. The region's elevation means conditions can change, so checking local forecasts is always recommended.
What are the winter conditions like for touring cycling in Belfahy?
Winter touring cycling in Belfahy can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations and on mountain passes. Many routes may become impassable or require specialized equipment. It's advisable to check local conditions and road closures before planning a winter ride.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Belfahy?
The touring cycling routes in Belfahy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging ascents, the varied terrain including gravel sections, and the natural beauty of the dense forests and mountain passes.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes in Belfahy?
Yes, there are 18 routes classified as moderate. An example is the Miellin – Chevrères Pass loop from Le Droit de la Grève, which is 8.7 miles (14.1 km) long and involves a climb of over 440 meters, typically taking about 1 hour 10 minutes to complete.
What are the typical durations for touring cycling routes in Belfahy?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and elevation. Shorter, challenging loops like La Planche des Belles Filles – Top loop from Planche des Belles Filles can take around 1 hour 5 minutes, while longer, difficult routes such as Col des Croix – Former Le Thillot station loop from Miellin typically require about 2 hours 35 minutes.
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