Col de la Schlucht, Mountain pass in Vosges Mountains, France
Col de la Schlucht is a mountain pass in the Vosges at 1139 meters, linking Munster and Gérardmer between Alsace and Lorraine via the D417 road. Two ski lifts ascend toward Trois Fours at 1246 meters, serving blue-level slopes with parking and dining options nearby.
Between 1871 and 1918, this pass marked the strategic border between France and Germany following the Treaty of Frankfurt. After World War I, it returned to French territory and became a key transportation link in the region.
The name Schlucht comes from German and refers to the gorge formation typical of this Vosges section. You can see this German-French heritage reflected in the local architecture, dialect, and customs of the surrounding villages.
The road is well-maintained but can be snowy in winter, requiring careful driving. Bring warm clothing and be prepared for conditions that change significantly depending on the season.
The Tour de France has passed through here multiple times since World War II, making it a cycling classic among enthusiasts. Steep gradients and the pass's historic significance draw thousands of cyclists annually who retrace the legendary route.
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