4.4
(1266)
33,646
riders
24
rides
Road cycling around Rufach, situated in the Haut-Rhin department of Grand Est, France, offers diverse terrain for cyclists. The town lies on the Lauch River at the eastern foothills of the Vosges Mountains, providing access to both challenging ascents and gentler vineyard routes. The region is characterized by its vineyards along the Alsatian Wine Route and the forested slopes of the Vosges, with varying elevation profiles. Cyclists can explore routes that traverse agricultural lands, historic villages, and mountain passes.
Last updated: October 8, 2026
4.8
(53)
1,561
riders
86.8km
04:41
1,540m
1,540m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(3)
123
riders
136km
07:38
2,920m
2,920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

28
riders
35.4km
01:33
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3.5
(2)
31
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.2
(5)
21
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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When you drive from the Route des Crêtes towards Le Grand Ballon, you pass the Col du Haag (1233 m) almost unnoticed. Yet, this pass marks a special point on the southern flank of the highest mountain in the Vosges. Here, steep roads from the Thurdal leave the wooded slopes and reach the open heights of the massif. From the col, a typical Vosges landscape unfolds with mountain meadows, scattered farms, and sweeping views. The proximity of the Grand Ballon is felt everywhere: the imposing summit towers above the pass and forms the natural goal of the final climbing kilometers. For cyclists, the Col du Haag is mainly known as the point where difficult climbs from the valleys converge before the road continues to rise to the highest point of the Vosges.
6
0
Le Markstein (1184 m) is meer dan alleen een kruispunt op de Route des Crêtes. Het is echter een echte bergpas en het hoogste punt van de oversteek tussen het Lauch- en Thurdal. Het ligt in het hart van het Vogezenmassief, midden een populair wintersportgebied dat nauw verbonden is met de Grand Ballon
6
0
Le Markstein is a well-known winter sports and outdoor resort in the High Vosges, located at an altitude between 1020 and 1268 meters. The resort is situated directly on the iconic Route des Crêtes and forms an important crossroads and recreational area within the municipalities of Oderen and Lauw (near Wildenstein). At Le Markstein, you will find several traditional Fermes-Auberges and hotels where you can taste the local repas marcaire (a traditional hearty meal from the Vosges). Additionally, the location has gained significant fame in cycling; it is regularly the setting for tough mountain stages in the Tour de France (and the Tour de France Femmes), often as the final challenge after the climbs of Petit Ballon and Platzerwasel.
6
0
There are no restaurants or cafes at the summit of the Col de Bramont itself. However, the pass serves as a strategic junction. From the summit, you can directly connect to the famous Route des Crêtes (the D431), which links the main mountain peaks of the Vosges. This allows you to easily cycle or hike to larger attractions nearby, such as the Col de la Schlucht, the Hohneck, or the Grand Ballon. The climb is enjoyable due to its 12 hairpin bends on the southern flank (Kruth).
7
0
Brilliant ascent to the pass relatively quiet with a pleasant gradient
4
0
short break again and again in the scorching heat
0
0
sights again and again towards Cernay
0
0
This is the starting point for many hikes.
3
1
Rufach offers a diverse range of road cycling routes. You'll find everything from challenging ascents into the Vosges Mountains to gentler rides through picturesque vineyards along the Alsatian Wine Route. The region also features routes that traverse agricultural lands, historic villages, and the Lauch River valley.
Yes, Rufach has several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Bike path to Ensisheim – Beautiful blue metal bridge loop from Rouffach is an easy 24.7-mile (39.8 km) route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed ride.
For more demanding rides, head towards the Vosges Mountains. Routes like the Bannstein Pass – Grand Ballon loop from Rouffach offer significant elevation gain, climbing over 1,500 meters across 54 miles (86.9 km). Another challenging option is the Ascent to Col Amic – Climb to Col Amic loop from Rouffach, which covers 58.3 miles (93.9 km) with over 1,000 meters of ascent.
Many of the road cycling routes around Rufach are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Eguisheim – Rouffach Old Town loop from Rouffach and the A Beautiful Middle Age Village – Rouffach Old Town loop from Rouffach, which are both circular and explore charming villages.
You'll experience a variety of landscapes. Expect scenic rides through the vineyards of the Alsatian Wine Route, forested slopes of the Vosges Mountains, and views of the Lauch River. From higher points, you might even catch glimpses of the Alps and the Black Forest.
Yes, several routes incorporate historical and cultural exploration. You can cycle through charming old towns like Eguisheim and Rufach itself, which boasts medieval monuments such as the Notre-Dame de l'Assomption Church and the historic Witches' Tower. The region's viticultural heritage is also a prominent feature along the vineyard routes.
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Rufach, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging mountain passes to scenic vineyard paths, and the opportunity to explore charming villages and historical sites.
While specific data isn't provided, the region's diverse landscapes, including vineyards and mountain passes, suggest that spring, summer, and early autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling. These seasons typically provide good weather for enjoying both the scenic routes and the region's outdoor attractions.
Absolutely. As you cycle, you might encounter highlights such as the Petit Ballon summit, the serene Ballon Lake, or the Boenlesgrab Pass. These spots offer stunning vistas and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the Vosges.
Yes, especially in the villages along the Alsatian Wine Route and near popular mountain passes. You can find places like the Kahlenwasen Farm Inn or the Grand Ballon Chalet Hotel, which cater to outdoor enthusiasts and provide opportunities for a break or an overnight stay.
There are over 20 road cycling routes available around Rufach, catering to various skill levels. This includes 9 easy routes, 8 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.
While specific public transport connections for cyclists are not detailed, Rufach's location in the Haut-Rhin department, near larger towns like Colmar and Mulhouse, suggests regional transport options might be available. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for bicycle carriage policies if you plan to use public transport to access routes.


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