Route des Crêtes Motorcycle Ride in the Vosges Mountains

The Route des Crêtes is situated in the Vosges mountain range in the Alsace region of France. It begins near the town of Cernay and traverses a mountainous landscape characterized by several mountain passes, including the Col de Herrenfluh, Col Amic, Col du Grand Ballon, and Col du Haag. The Vosges Mountains are a prominent range in northeastern France, known for their rounded summits and forested slopes. This road provides access to multiple viewpoints along its length, making it a notable route for riders interested in mountain terrain. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The Route des Crêtes extends approximately 27 kilometers (16.6 miles) and is surfaced with asphalt of generally good quality, rated at 4.4 out of 5. The road is moderately twisty, offering a riding experience that balances curves with stretches of more straightforward riding. About 62% of the road consists of two lanes, while roughly 13% is single-lane. The width varies, with about 39% of the road being wide, 44% of medium width, and 15% narrow. The maximum speed limits range between 50 and 70 km/h (31 to 44 mph), reflecting the road's mountain pass nature and safety considerations. Only a small portion of the road (approximately 6.5%) passes through inhabited areas, allowing riders to experience a predominantly natural environment.

The route crosses several mountain passes, each contributing to the road's character and elevation profile. The Col de Herrenfluh sits at 835 meters (2,740 feet), Col Amic at 828 meters (2,717 feet), Col du Grand Ballon at 1,343 meters (4,406 feet), and Col du Haag at 1,233 meters (4,045 feet). The Col du Grand Ballon is the highest point on the route and is a significant landmark in the Vosges Mountains. These passes provide varied riding conditions and opportunities for riders to experience changes in altitude and landscape.

The Route des Crêtes is notable for its multiple viewpoints along the way, offering riders and travelers opportunities to stop and appreciate the surrounding mountain scenery. These viewpoints are distributed throughout the route, providing panoramic views of the Vosges Mountains and the valleys below. The road itself runs along a ridge line, enhancing the visibility and appeal of these stops. Riders should plan to allocate time for these pauses to fully appreciate the natural environment.

This article focuses on the section of the Route des Crêtes visible on the map below. The road is identified by references D 431, N°33, and N°19. It is a mountain pass road with a predominantly asphalt surface and good maintenance. For more detailed information about the mountain passes, see the Col de Herrenfluh, Col Amic, and Col du Grand Ballon Wikipedia pages. Riders should verify current road conditions and any seasonal closures before planning their trip.