Wissembourg - Basel

The Vosges (Vogesen) is an old range of low mountains, west of the Rhine Valley. Historically it belonged alternately to Germany or France. The German influence is very clear, especially in the northern parts. Here the hills are relatively low, pushed together, with extensive forests. Actually, it is a continuation of the German Pfälzerwald north of it. Going south the hills broaden, get higher, and in the higher parts open flats top the hills, like the Ballon d'Alsace, with 1247 m the highest summit of these mountains.

The GR53 is interwoven with the GR531 and GR532. Then there is also the popular GR5 intertwining. So alltogether you can feel free to explore the Vosges from north to south, from the dark forests to the vineyards of the Rhine valley, finding ruined bourgs or mediaeval villages on your way.