The Massif du Donon reaches 1,009 metres and is the highest point in the Lower Vosges. The forest around Donon can be accessed from Grandfontaine. There are various excursions to choose from around Donon: the archaeological discovery trail, routes with historical connections, and a circular route to the Cascade de la Crache and the Dolmen de la Hazelle. The ski resort trails at Donon add another option to this selection; in summer, they can also be used as mountain biking routes.
Hiking and themed trails around Donon
The themed trail “Le Donon, montagne sacrée” starts at the Maison forestière du Haut Donon and is classified as moderate. As the rating may be updated, check it before setting out. The starting point gives you a clear reference when adding this themed trail to your plans.
The Circuit rando D04 starts at the car park of the military cemetery at Donon and is 11 km long. Its route follows the southern fortified German defensive line at Donon, built during the 1914–1918 war. To protect wildlife, the entire route is accessible only from July to November. Check local access information before setting off.
The Circuit rando D05: Cascade de la Crache circular hiking trail is 15 km long and starts at the Col du Donon. It offers the chance to discover the Dolmen de la Hazelle and leads to the Cascade de la Crache. This makes D05 four kilometres longer than D04; the two trails also differ in their destinations and in D04’s seasonal access restriction.
The archaeological discovery trail at Donon is signposted with explanatory drawings. These provide a visual introduction to the archaeological theme. You can choose between this interpretive format, the themed trail “Le Donon, montagne sacrée,” and the specific destinations or historical connections of the circular routes.
Ski resort trails: also for mountain biking
The ski resort at Donon has 40 km of signposted trails on five forest routes at elevations of 730 to 950 m. In summer, the trails can be used as mountain biking routes. Access to the ski resort is free. Check local information before your visit in case access arrangements have changed.
Iron mines and temple construction
The discovery of iron ore led to the exploration and opening of iron mines in Grandfontaine-Framont. A successful pastiche of an ancient temple, built under Napoleon III, also stands at the summit of Donon. A pastiche imitates ancient forms; the building therefore dates from the time of Napoleon III and is modelled on an ancient temple. The mining history of Grandfontaine-Framont and the temple at Donon thus offer different historical perspectives on the area.
Discover more destinations: Rosheim, Hunspach, Mittelbergheim, Berstett, Scharrachbergheim-Irmstett, Saulxures, Wingen, Molsheim.
For the broader travel overview: Bas-Rhin.
