The GR5 Trail – Vosges and Jura

Guidebook to a 687km (427 mile) long distance hike through eastern France, traversing the Vosges and the Haut-Jura plateau. The route follows the GR53 from Wissembourg to Schirmeck, before picking up the central section of the GR5 from Schirmeck to Nyon on Lake Geneva, taking in wooded and grassy hills, river gorges and fascinating castle ruins.

This trekking route is 687km (427 miles) along the length of the Vosges mountains and the Haut-Jura plateau of north east France. The GR5 is one of the great hiking routes across Europe and the route described here is the central section, from Schirmeck to Nyon on Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). By combining it with a section of the GR53 (Wissembourg to Schirmeck), the guide presents a complete traverse of the Vosges and Jura. The route is presented in 11 sections: the whole route would take five or six weeks to complete, but it could also be tackled in smaller sections. Some of the finest stretches of the GR5 and GR53 can be enjoyed as day hikes, and the book includes 8 shorter circuits of 9–21 km that incorporate some particularly recommended sections.

Making use of the excellent footpath system, the route is well within the capabilities of any moderately fit person. The book includes a range practical information for planning a trip, including a list of facilities and guide to accommodation.

The region features wooded and grassy hills, deeply cut river gorges and fascinating castle ruins, and this long-distance route links a rich variety of landscapes. These mountains are ideal for hikers, with summits of modest height and panoramic views.

Les Smith

Les and Elizabeth Smith live in Perthshire in Scotland and, after following sensible careers as scientist and geographer respectively, have embraced a more flexible outdoor life, pursuing their love of Scotland, wild places, wild life and photography. Enthusiastic hikers and campers, they have backpacked along many long-distance routes, both in the UK and more widely in Europe. This is their first guidebook, now updated in a second edition.

Elizabeth Smith

Les and Elizabeth Smith live in Perthshire in Scotland and, after following sensible careers as scientist and geographer respectively, have embraced a more flexible outdoor life, pursuing their love of Scotland, wild places, wild life and photography. Enthusiastic hikers and campers, they have backpacked along many long-distance routes, both in the UK and more widely in Europe. This is their first guidebook, now updated in a second edition.