The highest point of the Vosges massif at 1,424 metres altitude, the Grand Ballon is far more than a simple ski resort: it’s an exceptional natural site, offering an absolutely unique 360° panorama over the Alsace plain, the Black Forest and, on a clear day, the majestic Alps range. Its small alpine ski resort, family-friendly and welcoming, allows visitors to enjoy skiing in a dreamlike setting. Winter and summer alike, the Grand Ballon is a destination for contemplation and nature, ideal for families, beginners and all those seeking to ski or hike with a breathtaking view.
Le Grand Ballon
Overview
Le Grand Ballon
🎿 Alpine skiing: 6 km
⛷️ Cross-country skiing: 40 km
🌟 Resort style: High-altitude resort
💰 From 20 €/day (2025-2026)
Our review — Le Grand Ballon
2.5/5
Ski area — key figures — Le Grand Ballon
- 🌟 High-altitude resort (Haut-Rhin)
- 🎿 11 runs
🚠 4 ski lifts
Average lift age: 35 years
When to visit
Le Grand Ballon in summer
In summer, the Grand Ballon is paradise for walkers and cyclists. The col ascent is a classic for cycling enthusiasts, while numerous marked trails cross the high-altitude chaumes. The climb to the summit up to the civil aviation radar is a must for the view. It is also a well-regarded paragliding spot.
🎯 Things to do in summer:
✅ Road cycling • ✅ Enduro MTB • ✅ Hiking • ✅ Paragliding
Le Grand Ballon in winter
In winter, the site offers a complete sliding offering. Alpine skiing is family-oriented and panoramic. The Nordic ski area is a major asset, with a link to the neighbouring Markstein resort. Numerous unmarked routes are also the playground for snowshoers and ski tourers.
🎯 Things to do in winter:
✅ Alpine skiing • ✅ Cross-country skiing • ✅ Snowshoeing
Skiing
Below are the 2 ski areas accessible from Le Grand Ballon: Le Grand Ballon (alpin), Le Markstein – Grand-Ballon (nordique).
Ski area — Le Grand Ballon
⛰️ Altitudes: 1050 m – 1310 m
🎿 Alpine skiing: 6 km
💰 Day pass: 20 €
The Grand Ballon alpine domain is a small family resort. Its 11 runs (1 green, 3 blue, 5 red, 2 black) served by 4 lifts suit relaxed skiing days, plus the massif’s finest views.
Cross-country ski area — Le Markstein – Grand-Ballon
⛰️ Altitudes: 870 m – 1170 m
🌲 Cross-country skiing: 40 km
💰 Day pass: 7.5 €
Linking two of the massif’s highest summits, the Markstein – Grand Ballon Nordic space is one of the Vosges’ largest and most spectacular. Located on the mythic Route des Cretes, this high-altitude domain offers exceptional terrain for all cross-country enthusiasts in chaumes (altitude plateaus) and preserved forests. With over 40 km maintained trails for skating and classic technique, the domain suits all levels. The Markstein sector offers several easy and intermediate loops ideal for families and initiation with superb Thur valley panoramas — perfect full-day starting point. For enduring cross-country skiers, the site’s main attraction is its magnificent ridge-link run winding across crests to Grand Ballon domain. This long escape offers total nature immersion and unforgettable Alsace plain, Black Forest and, clear days, Swiss Alps chain views. Beyond cross-country skiing, numerous marked snowshoe routes allow discovering landscapes at contemplative pace. Labelled Nordic France, the Markstein – Grand Ballon domain is a premier destination for complete Nordic experience combining sport, escape and Vosges mountain beauty.
Save on ski hire with Alpy.com
Book your ski equipment online and save up to 65% compared to resort prices with our partner Alpy.com. Quality gear available near your accommodation, free cancellation, group discounts. Book with code ALTI5 for an extra 5% off!
Ski pass prices — Le Grand Ballon
Current lift pass prices for ski areas accessible from Le Grand Ballon.
| Ski area | Day pass | 6-day pass | Season pass | Season (prices) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Le Grand Ballon (alpin skiing) | 20 € | 110 € | 320 € | 2025-2026 |
| Le Markstein – Grand-Ballon (nordique skiing) | 7.5 € | 33 € | 55 € | 2025-2026 |
Where to stay
Book your stay
- Expedia
- Hotels
- Chalets & rentals
Search accommodation in Le Grand Ballon with Expedia
Find a hotel in Le Grand Ballon
Rent a chalet or large property in Le Grand Ballon
Similar resorts to Le Grand Ballon
Six resorts with a similar style, altitude and ski area to Le Grand Ballon.
