The Grand Ballon

Perched at 1,424 meters altitude, the Grand-Ballon is the highest peak of the Vosges massif. This summit, sometimes called Ballon de Guebwiller, attracts hiking enthusiasts as well as cross-country and alpine skiers. Its tourist development dates back to the 19th century, marked by the arrival of railways in the surrounding valleys.

At the summit stands the Diables Bleus monument, erected by the French Alpine Club and the Vosgien Club in memory of the soldiers from the alpine hunter battalions who fell during World War I. Nearby, a civil aviation radar, designed by architect Claude Vasconi and built in 1997, stands out for its aesthetic.

Under the radar's radome, an orientation table offers an exceptional panoramic view.

In winter, car access is possible on certain roads, but they are cleared of snow and equipment is mandatory. The ridge road connecting Col de la Schlucht to Grand-Ballon remains closed during this season. In summer, several access routes are passable, notably from Guebwiller, Wattwiller, Willer-sur-Thur, and Goldbach.