Best mountain peaks around Berrwiller are located in the Haut-Rhin department of France, at the foot of the Vosges mountains. This region offers access to several notable peaks within the Vosges range. While Berrwiller itself is a rural village, the surrounding mountains provide diverse experiences. The area features a mix of historical sites, high-altitude summits, and scenic viewpoints.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more peaks around Berrwiller.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Vieil Armand, also known as Hartmannswillerkopf, is a striking mountain peak in the southern Vosges, near the Col Amic. This place is not only popular with cyclists because of the challenging climb and the panoramic view of the Rhine plain, but also an important historical monument. During the First World War, fierce fighting took place here between French and German troops, resulting in a static trench warfare. Today, the area is a national memorial with a crypt, military cemetery and well-preserved trenches. The climb to Vieil Armand via the Col Amic is not only sportingly rewarding, but also impressive because of the historical significance of the landscape.
6
0
A quiet road up to Geishouse, then a cycle and footpath with fine asphalt and plenty of shade until about 1 kilometer before the Col du Grand Ballon. Praise for the planning and development of this greenway! This is what cycling tourism is all about. A few shorter sections, especially toward the end, have double-digit gradients of up to about 15%. https://www.quaeldich.de/paesse/grand-ballon/
2
0
The highest elevation on the Hartmannsweilerkopf, unfortunately also one of the most tragic places on this battlefield. Around the cross there are many trenches, fortresses and fortifications which can also be visited. These tell the sad story of this otherwise beautiful place.
2
0
Historical place in the Vosges that was hotly contested during the First World War
5
0
The climb via Geishouse to the Grand Ballon has been newly paved since summer 2023, making it a truly beautiful alternative to the routes where you have to share the road with motorcycles and sports cars. It's also highly recommended for scenic reasons and, as it's mostly through the forest, is relatively bearable in summer.
2
0
Recommended! The asphalt after Geishouse has recently been completely renewed and is completely car-free from there to Ferme du Haag. However, they have closed the road with a barrier that you cannot go around but only under. So you have to get off and click in again at 8%. Not very convenient and completely dangerous if you descend via that side. Hopefully they will adjust this. The climb is easy to do at the beginning with a very steep section of 10%. After Geishouse on the renewed asphalt it becomes more difficult with a few kilometers around 9%. You get a chance to catch your breath for a while and then finish with sections of 11-12% to Ferme du Haag. The last 2 km to the top of the Grand Ballon are a bit easier again but all in all it makes for a pretty tough climb.
2
0
The most historically significant peak is Hartmannswillerkopf, also known as Vieil Armand. This 956-meter peak was a major battlefield during World War I, preserving an extensive network of trenches, bunkers, and memorials. It serves as a poignant Franco-German memorial. You can explore the site and its museum to learn more about its past. Another related highlight is the Viewpoint at the summit of Vieil Armand, which offers views of the Alsatian and Upper Rhine plains.
For expansive panoramic views, Grand Ballon (1,424 meters) is highly recommended. From its summit, you can see the Vosges, the Black Forest, and on clear days, even the Alps. Hohneck (1,363 meters), the second-highest peak, also provides spectacular vistas, especially from areas like the Wormspel valley, overlooking Lake Schiessrothried. The Viewpoint at the summit of Vieil Armand also offers great views of the Alsace plain and the Black Forest.
Yes, several peaks offer challenging hikes. The Vogelstein (1,181 meters) is known for requiring good fitness and sure-footedness due to its alpine landscapes. The Ascent from Moosch to Grand Ballon is a challenging climb to the highest peak in the Vosges. For more options, you can explore difficult MTB trails like the 'Ascent to Col Amic – Grand Ballon loop' in the MTB Trails around Berrwiller guide.
The region boasts several unique natural features. Hohneck is characterized by its subalpine landscapes, old forests, and high-altitude meadows, with evidence of past glacial erosion. Vogelstein is recognized for its remarkable rock formations. Additionally, you can find the Rennenbach Spring, a beautiful little source located at 1325 meters below the Grand Ballon.
While some peaks involve challenging terrain, many areas offer accessible trails and historical sites that can be enjoyed by families. The Hartmannswillerkopf site, with its preserved trenches and museum, offers an educational experience for older children. The Grand Ballon has various hiking routes, including panoramic tours, that cater to different fitness levels. Always check specific trail difficulties before heading out with family.
The highest mountain peak in the Vosges mountains, and near Berrwiller, is Grand Ballon, standing at 1,424 meters. It is easily recognizable by its civil aviation radar and a monument dedicated to the 'Diables Bleus.' It offers extensive views and diverse recreational opportunities.
The area around Berrwiller's mountain peaks is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails of varying difficulty, with options like the 'Monument to the 152nd Regiment – Tunnel loop' found in the Hiking around Berrwiller guide. Road cycling is popular, with routes such as 'Cernay - Vieux-Thann – Roading - Guewenheim loop' available in the Road Cycling Routes around Berrwiller guide. Mountain biking is also a great option, with trails like 'Wine trails – Ascent to Col Amic loop' listed in the MTB Trails around Berrwiller guide. In winter, Grand Ballon is popular for downhill and cross-country skiing.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and enjoying the panoramic views, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers pleasant weather. During these months, the flora is rich, and visibility is often good. For winter sports like skiing, the colder months from December to March are ideal, especially at higher elevations like Grand Ballon.
Hohneck is the second-highest peak in the Vosges at 1,363 meters and is renowned for its alpine scenery. It features old forests, high-altitude meadows, and subalpine landscapes shaped by past glacial erosion. It's also an important ornithological site, making it a great spot for birdwatching. The summit is accessible by car via the Route des Crêtes, offering impressive vistas of the Alsace plain, the Black Forest, and the Alps on clear days.
Yes, the Hundsruck Pass, at 748 meters, is a crucial starting point for various hikes to nearby peaks such as Rossberg and Thannerhubel. This pass connects the Thur and Doller valleys and provides access to numerous trails offering breathtaking views. It also holds historical significance, with a memorial stone commemorating soldiers from World War II.
For more detailed information about the Hartmannswillerkopf battlefield, its history, and visiting hours, you can refer to external resources. The site preserves an extensive network of trenches, bunkers, and memorials. You can find more details on its historical significance and visitor information at tourisme-mulhouse.com or visit.alsace.
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical immersion and natural beauty, especially at sites like Hartmannswillerkopf. The stunning panoramic views from peaks like Grand Ballon and Hohneck are also highly appreciated, offering vistas across the Vosges, Black Forest, and sometimes even the Alps. The diverse hiking opportunities, from challenging climbs to scenic walks, and the rich flora and unique natural features contribute to a memorable experience. The komoot community has shown its appreciation with over 1100 upvotes and more than 860 photos shared.


See even more amazing summits around Berrwiller with these guides: