Club Vosgien - Conservation and Green Tourism in Alsace Lorraine

The Club Vosgien was created in 1872 for thearea.
development and conservation of Alsace-Lorraine'sThe uniform markage and lighting of these routes is
Haut-Rhine and Vosges Mountains. Until its creation,so good that it is virtually impossible to get lost. The
these regions were virtually uncharted and unfamiliartrails aim to promote the discovery of natural and
areas for outdoor activities and natural tourism. Hikingrural landscapes by developing practical hiking
routes, even those close to the villages, werecontinuity and the conservation of rural roads.
unmarked and undeveloped; mountain trails wereCurrently, the Club is working on digitalization of
inconvenient and hazardous; rest stops for wearythese hiking routes.
hikers were nonexistent and historic castles andBeyond the maintenance and development of trails,
fortresses were crumbling. As the state did little tothe Club Vosgien produces the "Circuits Pedestres"
protect and develop the region, the Club Vosgienguidebook, which recommends graded walks with
was established when Alsace and Lorraine camedetailed maps and guides. The association ensures
together to create this private entity.the promotion and development of walking tourism
Club Vosgien's mission focuses on the protection,for all levels through the many hiking trips, family
development and expansion of scenic routes in theoutings, trekking and cultural excursions it offers. This
region; the promotion of walking and hiking, theveritable institution attempts to reconcile the
preparation of guides and maps and other publicationsdifferences which arise between conservationism and
for the conservation of nature in the area. Since thethe deterioration of the natural environment due to
late 19th century, the organization has beeneconomic development. It educates towards the
responsible for the study, layout and demarcation ofcultural value of green tourism, and the protection of
the region's hiking trails. To this end, the Club Vosgiennature through its various publications and activities.
has established and maintains over 16,500 km ofToday, the Club Vosgien has developed into a
well-marked, well-lit paths, graded by colored symbolsregional federation, divided into seven departments
for difficulty. These trails expose visitors to naturewith over 113 local associations and over 34,000
and provide access to outstanding scenery. Themembers, all focused on the conservation, protection
extensive and coherent network of trails covers theand development of green tourism in Alsace-Lorraine.
Ballons de Vosges National Park and the surrounding