Tables de Charlemagne

Tables de Charlemagne is a rock formation on the summit of Haut du Roc, right on the boundary between the villages of Saulxures-sur-Moselotte and Basse-sur-le-Rupt, in the Vosges mountains of eastern France. The name recalls a local legend tied to Charlemagne, though the rocks themselves are natural sandstone slabs (a conglomerate known as poudingue) embedded with pebbles, shaped by erosion over millions of years.

What will you see there?

The defining feature of Tables de Charlemagne is a set of flat, table-like sandstone blocks of considerable thickness, sitting within dense forest at the top of Haut du Roc — their level surfaces look almost like stone tabletops, which explains the name. Nearby, along the same local trail network known as the "Circuit des Roches," you'll find other landmarks worth a detour: the Croix du Haut du Roc (summit cross), the so-called Chambre de Charlemagne (Charlemagne's Chamber), and a statue of Christ marked INRI. The whole area sits inside the Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park, so expect a largely untouched setting of forest and rocky outcrops typical of this part of the Vosges.

How do you get there?

The easiest way to reach Tables de Charlemagne is on foot — Haut du Roc is a hub for a dense network of trails marked by the Club Vosgien, with the main approaches coming from Basse-sur-le-Rupt to the north and Saulxures-sur-Moselotte to the south. Routes typically run a few kilometers (a popular loop covers about 4.8 km) and suit hikers of varying fitness levels; no special equipment is needed beyond sturdy walking shoes. The Col des Hayes, near Basse-sur-le-Rupt, is another common starting point.

When should you visit?

Spring, summer, and early autumn are the best seasons, when trails are dry and easy to walk and the forest is at its most inviting. In summer, tree cover keeps the route shaded and comfortable even on warmer days. Autumn adds extra color thanks to the deciduous trees common across the Vosges. In winter the path can turn muddy or slippery given the altitude and the region's damp climate, so it's worth taking extra care or picking another season if you prefer easier footing.

What should you know before setting off?

The trail runs through forest and rocky terrain, with roots and stones underfoot in places, so footwear with good grip is essential. There's no real tourist infrastructure nearby — no kiosks or food stops — so bring water and snacks for the whole outing. Families with children can manage the route, though some sections are steep, so it helps to pace the walk to the slowest member of the group.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly are the Tables de Charlemagne? They're a natural sandstone rock formation (a pebble-bearing conglomerate) at the top of Haut du Roc, made up of flat, table-like blocks, and wrapped in a local legend connected to Charlemagne.

How long is the hike to Tables de Charlemagne? Popular loops in the area typically run 4–5 km and take between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on pace and how many stops you make at viewpoints.

Is the trail suitable for children? Yes, though some stretches are rocky and require attention — it's best to pick a moderate-length loop and match the pace to younger walkers.

What else is there to see nearby? The same "Circuit des Roches" trail network includes the Croix du Haut du Roc, the Chambre de Charlemagne, and the INRI statue, all reachable via the same Club Vosgien trail system.