Northeastern France's Vosges Mountains, nestled in the Alsace region, offer two captivating multi-pitch climbing areas: La Martinswand and Rocher Hans du Lac Blanc.
While the Vosges may not boast towering peaks like the Alps, these locations are popular among climbers seeking a unique experience at higher elevations in Alsace.
Climbing Equipment:
Rope : 50-60m double rope or an 80m single rope.
Quickdraw: 14 quickdraws for most routes.
Both La Martinswand and Lac Blanc feature granite walls with 2-3 pitches, each spanning a height difference of approximately 80-120m.
Climbing TOPO
EST'CALADES：TOPO d'escalade dans VOSGES DU SUD
Navigate the intricate routes with the help of the EST'CALADES climbing guide for VOSGES DU SUD. Be prepared for the challenge of route finding, especially on the second pitch, where multiple routes converge at the same belay point.
Access: 🚗💨
Situated about an hour's drive west of Colmar, south of Strasbourg, both areas are easily accessible.
👉🏻 Locate La Martinswand and Lac Blanc on Google Map
When traveling, enjoy the picturesque villages of Kaysersberg or Munster which renowned for its unique Munster cheese.
Munster Cheese: 🧀
Explore the distinct aroma and flavor of Munster cheese, a local delicacy with AOC certification. While the scent may be strong, the taste is surprisingly mild and delicious. Indulge in local dishes like tarte flambée, incorporating Munster cheese, for a true Alsatian experience.
My friend 👱🏻♀️🇷🇺 brought back some Munster cheese as a souvenir ✈️ but her checked luggage was lost baggage. The luggage itself was sent back a few days later, but when she unpacked it, there was a strong smell 😂.
La Martinswand:
With a climbing history dating back to the 1960s, La Martinswand remains a beloved multi-pitch climbing area in Alsace. Divided into five main sectors, it offers both multi-pitch and single-pitch routes. Despite its popularity, the breathtaking views make it a must-visit, though climbers should expect some crowds, especially on popular routes.
The climbing area is divided into 5 main sectors.
1️⃣ Voies de Sortie
2️⃣ Petites Voies
3️⃣ Petit Cervin
4️⃣ Martinswand
5️⃣ Strassburgerwand
For multi-pitch: 3️⃣ Petit Cervin
For single pitches: 4️⃣ Martinswand and 5️⃣ Strassburgerwand
There are about 100 routes, including (8a) & (8b), but a quick look at the Topo shows that most of them are (7a) or lower.
⚠️ Most routes are fine with a 70m rope, but 😅 when I climbed Versant Sud (5c+), 70m rope was not enough 😨 I had to cut a pitch on the way down 😅
Rocher Hans du Lac Blanc:
Closer to Strasbourg, Rocher Hans du Lac Blanc is a smaller climbing area with approximately 40 routes. Divided into initiation and équipé sectors, most climbers gravitate toward the équipé sector. Compared to La Martinswand, Lac Blanc is less crowded, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for climbers.
The climbing area is divided into two main sectors.
1️⃣ initiation
2️⃣ équipé
But I think most people climb in 2️⃣ équipé.
There are some routes over tiny hangs, but most of the routes are vertical wall or slab.
La Martinswand 🆚 Lac Blanc:
Consider the following when choosing between La Martinswand and Lac Blanc:
1️⃣ Lac Blanc tends to have fewer climbers.
2️⃣ Personal enjoyment may vary, with some preferring Lac Blanc for its unique charm.
3️⃣ La Martinswand's openness and relaxing atmosphere appeal to many climbers.
4️⃣ La Martinswand offers a mix of single-pitch and multi-pitch routes, catering to diverse preferences.
Conclusion:
Whether you opt for the historic allure of La Martinswand or the serene ambiance of Lac Blanc, the Vosges Mountains promise a memorable multi-pitch climbing experience. Plan your adventure carefully, savor the local flavors, and embrace the challenges these granite walls present for an unforgettable climbing journey.
Campsite Near La Martinswand: Serenity at Lac de Blanchemer
As you plan your multi-pitch climbing adventure in the Vosges Mountains, consider extending your experience by camping near the picturesque Lac de Blanchemer. Situated just 15 minutes by car from La Martinswand, this small lake offers a tranquil setting amidst the mountainous landscape.
Lac de Blanchemer Overview:
Covering approximately 1 km in circumference, Lac de Blanchemer serves as more than just a scenic spot; it's also utilized for electricity generation. Despite its modest size, the lake is surrounded by towering mountains, creating a serene and immersive mountain experience.
Convenient Camping:
The proximity of the camping site to the lake makes it an easily accessible option, just a short distance from the parking lot. The site features a small cabin and basic restroom facilities 🚾🚻, making it convenient for campers. ⚠️ However, it's important to note that there are no water facilities on-site 🚰
Immersive Mountain Atmosphere:
Camping at Lac de Blanchemer provides an opportunity to embrace the peaceful ambiance of the Vosges Mountains. The absence of bustling city sounds allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, enhancing your overall climbing and camping experience.
Exploring the Surroundings:
Take advantage of the proximity to Lac de Blanchemer by exploring its scenic surroundings. A short drive or hike can lead you to captivating viewpoints or other natural attractions, adding a touch of exploration to your camping getaway.
Conclusion:
For climbers seeking a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquility, camping near La Martinswand at Lac de Blanchemer offers a convenient and immersive experience. Plan accordingly, pack wisely, and relish the beauty of the Vosges Mountains as you embark on both your climbing and camping escapades.
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