Ballon d’Alsace

The ski resort Ballon d’Alsace is located in the town of Lepuix, in the Territory of Belfort. The resort is particularly suitable for family skiing. Here, we are far from the hustle and bustle of the big resorts. No luxuries, just the simple pleasure of skiing unhindered, but safe on slopes suitable for all levels.

The Ballon d’Alsace ski resort

The Ballon d’Alsace ski resort is a ski and winter sports resort which was built at the beginning of the 20th century. It is located in the heart of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park, on the borders of Alsace, Lorraine and Franche-Comté.

The ski slopes map of the Ballon d’Alsace reveals a varied offer for all types of skiers. For beginners, green slopes such as La Gentiane and La Lanterne are ideal for their ease and accessible location close to the main areas of the resort. Blue slopes such as La Bruyère offer a slightly more challenging level, perfect for progressing while enjoying a safe and scenic environment.

For more experienced skiers, the black runs such as La Poudre and La Bérézina offer technical and exciting terrain, with steeper and more challenging descents. These slopes, located at higher elevations in the domain, combine adrenaline with spectacular views of the Vosges.

In addition, the snowpark near the La Grande Gentiane area is an excellent option for those looking to experience tricks and jumps in a controlled environment. The combination of well-designed slopes and specific areas for different levels makes the Ballon d’Alsace a complete destination for skiers of all abilities.

The premises, buildings, police station, the starting point for the slopes, an equipment hire shop, places to eat and a space reserved for small children, are all set up at Gentiane. There is a large car parking area and in winter it is connected to other places thanks to the ‘snow bus’. A bus line runs from Belfort operated by ‘Destination Ballon d’Alsace’.

The alpine ski slopes at Ballon d’Alsace

The Ballon d’Alsace ski resort has a maximum altitude of 1,231 metres and a minimum of 810 metres, so you’ll enjoy a 421-metre vertical drop for incredible downhill runs.

The small resort is equipped with 16 pistes (5 green, 3 blue, 4 red and 4 black), a snowpark, a snow garden, nine ski lifts, a conveyor belt and a snow line, the Ballon d’Alsace ski area is ideal for skiing enthusiasts and beginners alike. It offers optimal conditions for progressing, having fun and enjoying an exceptional environment.

To guarantee continuous snow throughout the winter, it has 54 snow cannons covering 80% of the alpine domain.

Although, as you can see, this ski resort has a very low minimum and maximum altitude, it has ski slopes for all levels, as you can see below on its ski slopes map.

Cross-country skiing in the Ballon d’Alsace: a paradise for lovers of Nordic style

The Ballon d’Alsace also stands out for its cross-country skiing network, which covers more than 40 kilometres of perfectly groomed trails. These trails pass through forests and snow-covered meadows, offering a unique landscape and an experience of tranquillity and connection with nature. Both classic and freestyle skiers will find itineraries to suit their preferences.

Ski resort activities

Far from the hustle and bustle of the larger ski areas in the area, the ski resort Le Ballon d’Alsace allows alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding and discovering wide open spaces with snowshoes on marked and safe trails. You can also go sledging or dog sledging in two dedicated areas at the Ballon d’Alsace and Langenberg passes. Joëring skiing is also possible.

The ski school offers initiation for beginners. Or improve the style of more experienced skiers. It is possible to follow six skating routes labelled Nordic France.

Sustainable development of the Ballon d’Alsace ski resort: Grand Site de France

The Grand Site de France project is a preliminary step towards obtaining this prestigious label, with the aim of developing a territorial project in collaboration with local authorities, social actors, professionals and inhabitants. France currently has 22 labelled sites and 30 in the pipeline, with the Ballon d’Alsace massif being the first site under development in the Grand Est region.

The programme, promoted by the State, aims to protect and enhance emblematic sites with a high level of affluence. It includes the preservation of natural, cultural and landscape heritage, the restoration of vulnerable landscapes and the sustainable management of tourism, while respecting the inhabitants and the ‘spirit of the place’.

Since 2016, the project covers areas such as Rouge-Gazon, Ballon de Servance and the Planche des Belles-Filles, with the Parc Naturel Régional des Ballons des Vosges leading the initiative. This territory, noted for its landscapes, culture and strategic location between 4 departments and 2 regions, has the financial backing of regional, departmental and national entities, as well as the collaboration of the Réseau des Grands Sites de France and local communities.

Unforgettable experiences in Ballon d’Alsace

Dreaming of flying, free, like a bird? Have you ever thought about it? The Ballon d’Alsace ski resort is particularly well suited to paragliding, and professionals in the sector regularly gather here for discoveries or initiations. Whether for a baptism, an initiation or an advanced course, two schools located near the Ballon offer you all the guarantees of safe and quality supervision.

Ballon d’Alsace mountain resort in summer

During the summer, the Ballon d’Alsace ski resort is home to numerous sporting activities, including stages of the Tour de France. It also offers various activities such as hiking, or if you prefer, you can go mountain biking while enjoying the great outdoors.

Ballon d’Alsace is also a great playground for climbing, with several natural sites available in the three valleys within a short radius. Also, discover the mountain torrents by abseiling, jumping into the basins, sliding down natural slides and swimming.

Hotels in Ballon d’Alsace

Are you looking for accommodation in the ski resort of Ballon d’Alsace? Well we have good news for you. Staying in the Ballon d’Alsace is an experience that complements the magic of this destination. The hotels in the region stand out for their hospitality and for being surrounded by a privileged natural environment. From cosy mountain chalets to establishments with spa and premium services, there are options suited to both families and couples looking for a romantic getaway. Many hotels offer direct access to the slopes and are committed to sustainability, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable and environmentally friendly stay.

Hotel du Sommet

This simple roadside hotel is located within the boundaries of the Réserve Naturelle des Ballons Comtois, 1 km from the Ballon d’Alsace mountain and ski resort and 5 km from Lake Alfeld. The simple rooms have wooden floors, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Parking is free. Breakfast is available for a fee and is served in an informal dining room. Other amenities include a country-style restaurant, as well as a wood-panelled bar and a terrace.

Hotel Saut de la Truite ***

Le Saut de La Truite offers accommodation in Orbey. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. Free WiFi is provided and free private parking is available on site. Guests can relax in the shared lounge. A closed garage for bicycles and motorbikes is available on site free of charge. The Ballon d’Alsace ski resort is just 7 km away. The nearest Strasbourg International Airport is 58 km away.

Auberge du Langenberg

This unpretentious inn is in a picturesque town among the Vosges Mountains, 4 km from the Ballon d’Alsace ski resort and 5 km from Lake Alfeld. The simple rooms feature a TV and a private bathroom. Some rooms can accommodate up to 4 people. There are also dormitories with 6 to 8 beds. The upgraded cabins include living areas. Dinner is served in a spacious restaurant with a terrace and mountain views. Ski, snowshoe and sledge hire is available, as well as parking.

Skiing in Ballon d’Alsace: the resort’s strengths

Ballon d’Alsace, located in the Vosges massif, combines a spectacular natural environment with a complete offer for skiers of all levels.

• Natural environment: At an altitude of 1,247 metres, it offers views of the Alps, the Jura and the Black Forest, making it ideal for families and skiers looking for peace and quiet.
• Alpine skiing: With slopes of different levels (green, blue, red and black) and a snowpark, it is perfect for beginners and experts alike.
• Cross-country skiing: More than 40 kilometres of groomed trails through forests and meadows, ideal for classic or freestyle.
• Additional services: Snowshoeing, tobogganing and an excellent gastronomic offer, together with welcoming and sustainable hotels, complete the experience.