BR55 Assaulting the Markstein between the Munster and Guebwiller valleys

Leaving Guebwiller, the route joins the Alsace vineyard cycle route heading north, before turning west in the shadow of the Rouffach and Bollenberg hills to Osenbach. An initial ascent towards Col du Hundsplan takes you over the small massif to the wine-growing foothills at Gueberschwihr. At Husseren-les-Châteaux, a further, longer ascent to the Col du Wilsbach leads to the Château du Hohlandsbourg, a medieval sentienele overlooking the Alsace Plain and Colmar. South of Turckheim, the itinerary joins the pleasant, green Munster Valley cycle route. Take a gourmet break at the Maison du fromage to learn the secrets of making the local star. From Metzeral, the route becomes sportier, reaching the mythical Col du Platzerwasel, a classic stage of the Tour de France. The climb continues up to the Markstein, at an altitude of around 1,200 metres, offering unforgettable panoramic views. The descent takes you back down to the Guebwiller valley, along the Lauch river and the undeniably charming lake of the same name.