4.2
(16)
136
riders
32
rides
Gravel biking around Hirtzbach offers diverse terrain within the picturesque Sundgau region of Alsace, France. The area is characterized by undulating landscapes, including quiet secondary roads, dedicated cycle paths, and "white paths" (dirt or gravel tracks). Riders can explore the scenic Largue Valley, tranquil Land of Ponds, and the more rugged Alsatian Jura, with many routes incorporating shaded forest paths. This varied topography provides both challenging climbs and scenic descents for gravel cyclists.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.6
(5)
29
riders
80.1km
06:52
1,130m
1,140m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
30
riders
54.5km
04:04
490m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(2)
13
riders
55.6km
04:24
660m
660m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
38.3km
02:19
350m
350m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
23.2km
02:06
280m
280m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Beautiful half-timbered houses. Few public benches. Those in front of the church and in the adjacent playground are not sheltered from the wind. If you have a picnic area to recommend, go for it, thank you.
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This region has hundreds of small fishponds, once created by monks in the Middle Ages. Today they form a patchwork of water, reeds and forest – a paradise for birds, cyclists and those seeking peace and quiet. You cycle along quiet banks, see herons take flight and enjoy local specialities such as fried carp along the way.
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Oltingue is a quiet village in the Sundgau with a late-classical village ensemble around the church of Saint-Martin (1827–1831), the rectory and the former school. The Callinet organ (1843), the double staircase of the rectory and the facade details are striking. There are several historic houses in the village, including half-timbered houses from 1695 and a farm from the 16th century. To the east lies the chapel of Saint-Brice, a former place of pilgrimage with a baroque altar and an outdoor pulpit.
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This former mother church of Oltingue and three disappeared villages dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. The location is idyllic: surrounded by fields, an old cemetery and often with storks on the roof in the spring. Inside you will discover surprisingly well (?) preserved wall paintings, including a rare representation of the sacrifice of Melchisedech and a Last Supper from 1741. In the choir you will also find a wall tabernacle and a niche for liturgical objects, silent witnesses of medieval rituals. The Gothic arched windows and the neo-Gothic vault are reminders of later restorations, while archaeological excavations in 1989 revealed traces of older sanctuaries and tombs from the early Middle Ages. simple but full of character.
11
0
Beautiful route, away from the roads so very pleasant
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A few more photos and texts can be found in the corresponding hiking highlight in the komoot system, under the title "Chapelle Notre-Dame-des-Neiges" it can be reached with the following link =>>https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/3297592
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Many churches in France, including this chapel, are dedicated to the Virgin Mary under the widely used title "Notre-Dame" (in German: "Our Dear Lady"). A brief thought on the Mother of God from Albino Luciani (Pope John Paul I): "Mary is indeed our sister, as Saint Ambrose says. She led a life very similar to ours. It is of course beautiful to venerate Mary as the Virgin and Mother of God, as the one conceived immaculately by original sin and taken up into heaven; but she is also the Madonna of plates, brooms and cooking pots..." The visitor to the small Marian shrine can decide for himself which "Notre-Dame" he would like to venerate here.
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Old church located just outside the village of Oltingue.
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There are over 30 gravel bike trails around Hirtzbach, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy rides to challenging routes through varied terrain.
The Hirtzbach region, part of the Sundgau, offers diverse terrain. You'll ride on quiet secondary roads, dedicated cycle paths, 'white paths' (dirt or gravel tracks), and serene forest and farm tracks. The landscape is undulating, providing both challenging climbs and scenic descents.
Yes, while many routes are moderate to difficult, there are 2 easy routes available. For a moderate option that's a bit shorter, consider Pond country and the Largue valley (short version), which covers about 38.7 km with manageable elevation.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, The grand tour of the Alsatian Jura (via Winkel) is a difficult 80 km route with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is Pond country and the Largue valley, a 54.5 km difficult path that traverses varied sections.
Many routes take you through the beautiful Largue Valley, between Altenach and Heimersdorf. You can also explore the tranquil Land of Ponds, as highlighted by routes like the 'Gravel circuit of Sundgau 55 km the Land of ponds'. Additionally, many circuits incorporate shaded forest paths, and more demanding routes venture into the rugged Alsatian Jura.
Yes, you can encounter several interesting points. The Largue Valley Cycle Path itself is a significant feature. Other nearby attractions include the Port of Dannemarie and the Eglingen Lock. The Old Hirtzbach Station also serves as a convenient starting point for some circuits.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the blend of quiet roads and natural tracks, and the scenic beauty of the Largue Valley and Land of Ponds.
While specific parking lots aren't detailed for every trailhead, the Old Hirtzbach Station is a known starting point for several gravel circuits, suggesting parking availability in that vicinity. Generally, in rural areas like Hirtzbach, you can often find parking in village centers or designated spots near popular trail access points.
The Sundgau region is enjoyable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage or blooming landscapes. Summer is also suitable, especially on routes that incorporate shaded forest areas. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet or muddy conditions on unpaved tracks.
Yes, many of the gravel routes in the Hirtzbach area are designed as circular tours, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, Around the Sundgau capital is a popular loop through the undulating Sundgau region.
While specific cafes directly on the trails are not listed, the routes often pass through or near small villages in the Sundgau region. These villages typically offer local cafes, bakeries, or restaurants where you can refuel and enjoy regional specialties. Planning your route with potential stops in mind is recommended.
Although some routes may not have specific signage, GPX or KML tracks are readily available for download. You can easily navigate using popular apps like Komoot, Maps.me, or Visorando, which allow you to follow the pre-planned routes and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.


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