Course
Bike Course
To keep the routes both challenging and accessible for everyone, we provide 3 different routes for both Friday and Saturday. Below is a brief description of the longest routes on Friday and Saturday:
On Friday, the programme features a challenging route, with the climb of the Col du Hundsruck as the perfect warm-up. This climb of 6 kilometres and an average gradient of 6.4% offers a very even and gentle start. After this warm-up lap, the climb of the Ballon d’Alsace awaits, a 13-kilometre challenge with an average gradient of 5.2%. The course follows a winding section and passes the picturesque Lac d’Alfeld. On a clear day, breath-taking views of Mont Blanc await at the top.
On Saturday, we start with a gentle run-up through picturesque villages, followed by the ascent of the Col des Chevrères. This climb of 8.4 kilometres and an average gradient of 6.3% starts quietly, but soon culminates in a tough finale. It is a serious test for climbers’ legs, with a number of steep intermediate sections. Of course, we finish with the ascent of La Planche des Belles Filles, a 6-kilometre challenge with an impressive 8.5% gradient. La Planche is known as the most legendary climb in the region and concludes with a beautiful finish after the small “wall” at 20% at the top. A worthy end to an intense day of stunning climbs.
Run & Walk Courses
On Friday, we explore the wooded surroundings of Belfort via two different routes. Both routes are accessible and enjoyable to walk. The longer route makes a bigger loop and passes by a secret military base used by NATO in the 1950s.
On Saturday, the walkers and runners also start in Ronchamp and start their trail to the top of La Planche des Belles Filles, where the walkers cross the finish line together with the cyclists. A beautiful, again forested trail through the beautiful Vosges Mountains.
Walkers and runners should come to the start in Ronchamp using their own transport. A bus will be provided for walkers and runners for the return journey to the start site.
