Ballon d'Alsace from Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle

Route overview

This ride suits cyclists looking for a challenging 9.3 km climb with significant gradients and mixed surfaces.

9.3 km climb from Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle to Ballon d'Alsace, France, gaining 682 m.

Starting from Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle at 558 m, the route heads steadily uphill for 9.2 km gaining 682 m to reach the summit near Ballon d'Alsace at 1240 m. The gradient averages 7.4%, with a maximum of 17.7%, and 96% of the route is climbing. The surface is 79% paved with 21% gravel or unpaved. The road mix includes mainly 6.9 km on a main road (D 465) and 1.3 km on paths, 0.6 km on tracks, and 0.5 km on quiet streets. All 6.9 km of main road have no cycle lane and a posted speed limit of 80 km/h or more. Amenities at the start in Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle include a Carrefour Contact supermarket and petrol station, a bakery (Au Chalet de la Gourmandise), a convenience store, and a bar. Drinking water, toilets, and a repair stand are available near the start and at 4.1 km. The longest stretch without cafés, shops, or water is 5.2 km from 4.1 km to the finish. Ballon d'Alsace peak lies just off route near the finish at 9.2 km.

Highlights

• Ballon d'Alsace peak at 1240 m
• Summit at 9.2 km
• Steep gradients up to 17.7%
• Main road D 465 for 6.9 km

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

40 min

Best months

Jun to Sep — daily highs of 19–24 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 5.2 km without café, shop, or water from 4.1 km
• 6.9 km on main roads without a cycle lane
• 6.8 km on roads with 80 km/h+ speed limits
• 21% gravel or unpaved surface

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.