A cyclist on the ascent of La Planche des Belles Filles - Vosges du SudA cyclist on the ascent of La Planche des Belles Filles - Vosges du Sud
©Ascent of La Planche des Belles Filles|Alain Doire - BFC Tourisme

Cycling challenges in Haute-Saône

Haute-Saône is a land of bicycles, where cycle routes, cycle loops, greenways and gradients all come together to provide a great playground for cycling enthusiasts. The climb up La Planche des Belles Filles, which has been featured several times in the Tour de France, is one of the region’s must-do challenges, attracting large numbers of cyclists. Races open to the public allow you to test yourself against the rugged terrain of the Vosges du Sud, making this climb the star of the region’s cycling events. Come and take up the challenge!

The 3 Leading Balloons

The 3 Ballons Chef de race offers an intense experience on the roads of the Southern Vosges. This event, which comes in two formats – a 178km Granfondo and a 93km Médiofondo – arrives at the famous Planche des Belles Filles, now an emblematic site of the Tour de France. The Granfondo route, which starts in Ronchamp, includes a series of climbs over some of the finest passes in the southern Vosges: Ballon de Servance, Markstein, Grand Ballon and Ballon d’Alsace. The finish at La Planche des Belles Filles, with its gradients of up to 15%, offers a spectacular finale. The Ballon d’Alsace, recently included in the 2023 edition of the Grande Boucle, bears witness to the demanding nature of the race.

Col'Attitude

Col’Attitude invites cyclists to enjoy a unique experience in the Vosges mountains. With no registration and no competition, this initiative allows cyclists to climb some legendary passes in complete freedom. Every summer, Col’Attitude organises a number of events across the Massif, giving cyclists of all abilities the chance to savour the pleasure of the effort while discovering some exceptional scenery.

On the last Sunday in June, the Planche des Belles Filles, made famous by the Tour de France, is reserved for bikes for one morning. This legendary climb, which is closed to traffic, gives you the chance to test your mettle against the route taken by the champions. Whether you’re on your own, with friends or family, take up this personal challenge! It’s the perfect opportunity to feel like a Tour climber for just one climb.

Going up with her

Every year in October, the Comité Départemental Handisport invites you to La Montée avec Elle. This event invites cyclists and walkers, whether able-bodied or disabled, to conquer the famous Planche des Belles Filles.

On the cycling side, the flagship event features a time-trial format from Plancher-les-Mines to the summit of La Planche: 8.9km with 659m of ascent, putting participants’ stamina to the test on this demanding climb.

The diversity of categories – cycling, handbike, tandem, EV, running and walking – makes the challenge accessible to everyone. As well as sporting performance, “La Montée avec Elle” promotes inclusion and personal achievement. Hundreds of people take part every year.

Le Grand Huit Luxeuil-Vosges du Sud

The Cyclo Club de Froideconche is organising the Grand Huit Luxeuil-Vosges du Sud, a cycling event that showcases the beautiful countryside of Haute-Saône. The event features three routes suitable for all abilities, all starting from the spa town of Luxeuil-les-Bains. Cyclists will have the opportunity to climb the highest peaks in the Southern Vosges. The first two routes are also suitable for electrically-assisted bikes, making the adventure accessible to a wider public. Refreshment points will be set up all along the route to allow participants to recharge their batteries in a friendly atmosphere.