Spanning Bas-Rhin, Haut-Rhin, and Vosges departments—once part of Lorraine—the Vosges mountains sit between the Seine, Rhône, Meuse, and Rhine rivers. This region's rich natural heritage draws motorhome travelers year-round for its pristine landscapes. History lovers appreciate the medieval and Renaissance landmarks. As experienced van lifers, we highly recommend the Vosges for an unforgettable motorhome holiday.
Heading to the Vosges by motorhome? France's Highway Code applies fully. On autoroutes, the limit is 110 km/h. Major routes include:
Tolls can add up, so budget accordingly.
Mountain passes and valleys mean roads can get snow-covered. Equip with winter tires for seasonal travel.
Terrain limits wild parking, so prioritize dedicated motorhome areas. These secure spots let you hike worry-free and enjoy peaceful nights amid stunning scenery.
No off-season here—the Vosges deliver year-round. Summer shines for hiking trails and lakes; winter for skiing and mountain tranquility. Choose based on your adventures.
From Cernay to Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines, this WWI-era ridge road stuns with Vosges vistas on one side and Germany's Black Forest on the other. Pass the Grand Ballon at 1,423 m—park and hike the summit. Skip winter due to snow. Over 88 km of untouched panoramas; pack your camera.
Key stops on a Route des Crêtes loop:
Summer motorhoming? Picnic by cascades, swim lakes, cycle, or hike. Visit Lac de Gérardmer for pedalos. In Xonrupt-Longemer, see Lac de Retournemer and its Vologne waterfall via D67. Tendon waterfalls (Gérardmer to Épinal) offer cool forest walks—family-friendly. Park at the D11 lot between Docelles and Le Tholy.
Dive into Joan of Arc history at her birthplace, Domrémy-la-Pucelle. Tour her home and Bois-Chenu basilica, site of her first visions. Nearby, Le Grand's Gallo-Roman site boasts one of the Roman Empire's largest amphitheaters.
On the Moselle, Épinal charms with its historic center and Renaissance houses. Don't miss:
Cap meals at farm inns or the Vallée de Munster for iconic cheese. End at Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg for panoramic memories, or venture into Alsace's villages. Safe roads and joyful journeys!
