At 1,247.3 metres, Ballon d’Alsace is the highest peak in the Vosges in Franche-Comté. Large parts of the municipality of Lepuix lie within the Natura 2000 site and the Parc Naturel des Ballons des Vosges; the Savoureuse rises near Lepuix. These three features give the landscape different dimensions: the peak as a landmark in altitude, the protected areas covering large parts of the municipality, and the nearby river source. Together with hiking trails, seasonal activities at Ballon d’Alsace and the Scierie Demouge, they create a varied setting for a stay combining nature and cultural heritage.

Winter Activities and Climbing

Downhill and cross-country skiing are available at Ballon d’Alsace; snowshoeing is also offered. Mountain guides lead themed excursions there for all levels. This gives you several ways to enjoy the outdoors: two winter sports, snowshoe hikes and guided themed excursions. The activities are not all subject to the same conditions: the season matters for the winter sports, and guided tours may also be season-dependent.

La Roche du Cerf is a climbing area with several sectors. When weather conditions are suitable, ice-climbing routes also form there. Conditions therefore differ considerably: the season matters for winter sports, while the formation of ice-climbing routes depends specifically on the weather. If you are interested in these routes, take their formation into account when planning your visit.

Hiking Trails and the Montée du Ballon d’Alsace

Two hiking trails can be compared directly by length and difficulty rating. The Vallée de la Savoureuse route between Lepuix and Malvaux is 9 km long and rated “Sportif” (challenging). The Boucle des Belles Filles is in Lepuix, measures 9.6 km and carries the same “Sportif” rating. The Vallée is therefore the shorter route; the Boucle is 0.6 km longer, while the stated difficulty rating is the same. This gives you two specific points of comparison when choosing: distance and rating.

For cyclists, the Montée du Ballon d’Alsace starts in the village of Lepuix. It has a series of hairpin bends with gradients of no more than 7 percent. The 7 percent is the maximum gradient, not the gradient of every section. In addition to the hiking routes, the Montée offers a distinct cycling route to plan around: a starting point in the village and a specific upper limit for the gradient.

Industrial History in Chauveroche

The Scierie Demouge is located in the hamlet of Chauveroche, on the right bank of the Beucinière. The restored sawmill offers visits with demonstrations. It was established at the initiative of the municipality and the Demouge family; their joint municipal and family initiative is also part of its history. For travellers seeking an insight into local industrial heritage alongside the landscape and activities, the Scierie offers a distinct point of interest.

Open days are held annually in May, July and September, including during the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days). Visits are also available by appointment. As visits are subject to these dates or an appointment, check visiting arrangements for your planned dates before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Lachapelle-Sous-Chaux, Novillard, Bavilliers, Frais, Offemont, Bessoncourt, Bourogne, Autrechêne.

For the wider travel overview: Territoire De Belfort.