LE BALLON D'ALSACE

Located in the heart of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park, at the convergence of two regions and four departments of character, the Ballon d'Alsace, a major national classified site, is the highest point in the Southern Vosges with its 1247 metres of altitude. The Ballon d'Alsace is an ideal playground for young and old with its many activities to be enjoyed all year round. A discovery trail is marked out offering a panoramic view of the Alps and Alsace, the walk lasts about 1 hour. 10 reading tables will make you discover the identity of this place and an orientation table will allow you to read the landscape. The tourist may also be interested in the few monuments that attract his attention in specific places: the Virgin of the Summit, Our Lady of the Ballon, erected in 1862, the Monument des Démineurs, inaugurated on July 7, 1952, and the equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, which was commissioned from the sculptor Mathurin Moreau and moved several times before finding its final place at the top of the Ballon. The marked trails will delight beginners and experienced hikers alike. The paragliding and hang-gliding take-off areas attract many thrill-seekers every year. The map of the Ballon d'Alsace as well as information on the Balloon Comtois Nature Reserve can be downloaded below: