Top 20 Lakes in Vosges
Best lakes in Vosges are found within a region characterized by its diverse aquatic landscapes, from glacial cirques to peat bogs. The area features numerous lakes, many situated at high altitudes, offering varied natural environments. These bodies of water are often surrounded by dense forests and provide opportunities for outdoor activities. The Vosges lakes are a significant natural feature of the region, contributing to its ecological and recreational value.
Best lakes in Vosges
- The most popular lakes is Lake Lispach, a lake that is a moorland near La Bresse. This 900 m high lake is known for its serene nature and educational boards detailing its ecosystem.
- Another must-see spot is Lac de Blanchemer, a lake and reservoir for generating electricity. It is located at 984 meters above sea level, with its name reflecting the snow's reflection on its surface.
- Visitors also love Lake Longemer, a lake known for its wild and romantic natural setting. It is an ideal spot for picnics and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Vosges is known for its glacial lakes, peat bog lakes, and lakes offering water sports. The region provides a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil natural settings to active recreational hubs.
- The lakes in Vosges are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 840 upvotes and over 270 photos shared across 40 highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Lake Lispach
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Lake Longemer
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There are several swimming spots that are ideal for cooling off after a strenuous hike.
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Merelle Observatory
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Crow Lake
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Taubenklangfelsen Viewpoint
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View of Lake Gérardmer
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View of Lake Lispach
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Roche du Lac
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Lac de Blanchemer
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The name of the lake, "White Sea" comes from the reflection of snow on the mountains in the lake surface.
It lies at an altitude of 984 meters above sea level.
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Lake La Lande
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Tips from the Community
Very beautiful hike on the Vosges peaks
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Beautiful lake. Time to relax and enjoy.
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The beautiful mirror-like lake, surrounded by beautiful vegetation, is also explained on the information board. The insect-eating sundew is common there.
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Nice quiet place to take a break.
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Very beautiful spot. The surrounding path is well laid out.
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Great view of the lake. If you don't like the technical part, you can safely reach the viewpoint via my descent route, or simply bypass it. In my opinion, the approximately 100 meters of secured trail before the Roche du Lac are only really dangerous for inexperienced hikers who lack surefootedness and a head for heights.
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Here you can cycle around the mountain lake on a great single trail.
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A beautiful wooden tower with a narrow spiral staircase, it can accommodate a maximum of four people at a time. During the week and in bad weather, you won't have to wait long.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes in Vosges for family-friendly activities?
Many lakes in the Vosges region offer excellent options for families. Lake Longemer is ideal for picnics, swimming, and boating in a wild setting. Lac de Blanchemer and Lake Lispach also feature family-friendly trails and natural beauty. Lac Blanc is particularly notable for its adventure park, 4-season toboggan run, and fun trails, while Lake Gérardmer offers supervised beaches and various water sports.
Which lakes are best for hiking and offer scenic viewpoints?
The Vosges lakes are surrounded by numerous hiking opportunities and stunning viewpoints. For panoramic views, consider the Taubenklangfelsen Viewpoint, which overlooks Lac du Forlet (Lac des Truites) and extends to the Rhine plain and Black Forest. The Merelle Observatory also provides great lake views. Lac Blanc is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, with many marked trails and impressive views from Hans Rock. You can find various hiking routes, including those around lakes, in the Waterfall hikes in Vosges and Easy hikes in Vosges guides.
Are there opportunities for water sports on the Vosges lakes?
Yes, Lake Gérardmer, often called the 'Pearl of the Vosges,' is a hub for water sports. You can enjoy pedal boating, canoeing, sailing, and rowing there. Lake Longemer also offers opportunities for boating and swimming during the warmer months.
What is the best time of year to visit the Vosges lakes?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming, water sports, and enjoying the supervised beaches at Lake Gérardmer. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery for hiking, with vibrant foliage in fall. In winter, Lac Blanc transforms into a ski resort, offering downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.
Which lakes are known for their unique natural features or ecosystems?
Lake Lispach is a unique peat bog lake, particularly interesting for botany enthusiasts, with an educational trail explaining its moorland ecosystem. Lac Blanc is named for its crystalline white sand bottom, giving its water a distinctive hue. Lac Noir is characterized by its dark appearance due to its peaty bottom and surrounding dense spruce forests.
Can I find easy walking routes around the Vosges lakes?
Absolutely. Many lakes offer accessible and easy walking paths. Lake Gérardmer has a 6-kilometer path suitable for walking or cycling around its perimeter. Lake Longemer provides leisurely strolls along its waterfront. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes in Vosges guide, such as the 'Lake Longemer – Lake Longemer loop from Xonrupt-Longemer'.
Are there any 'secret' or less-known lakes worth visiting in Vosges?
While not entirely secret, Crow Lake (Lac des Corbeaux) is often described as a 'little gem' nestled within a glacial cirque, offering a picturesque half-hour walk around its perimeter. Lac des Truites (also known as Lac du Forlet), the highest lake in the Vosges Massif, is another beautiful spot often included in more challenging hikes.
What kind of cycling opportunities are available near the Vosges lakes?
The region around the Vosges lakes offers diverse cycling experiences. Lake Gérardmer has a 6-kilometer path suitable for cycling. For more adventurous rides, you can explore gravel biking routes in the area. Check out the Gravel biking in Vosges guide for routes like the 'Trail Along Lac de Retournemer – View of Lake Lispach loop from Gérardmer'.
Where can I find cafes or restaurants near the Vosges lakes?
The town of Gérardmer, located by Lake Gérardmer, is a vibrant resort area with various cafes and restaurants. Other popular lakes like Lake Longemer and Lac Blanc also have facilities nearby, especially during peak seasons, to cater to visitors.
What makes Lac Blanc unique among the Vosges lakes?
Lac Blanc stands out due to its high altitude (1,055 meters) and its name, derived from the crystalline white sand covering its bottom, which gives the water a unique hue. It's not just a hiking destination but also a winter sports resort and offers a range of family activities, including an adventure park and a 4-season toboggan run. You can find more information about it on visit.alsace.
Are there any lakes in Vosges that are good for fishing?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity on several Vosges lakes. Lake Longemer is known for fishing, and Crow Lake (Lac des Corbeaux) is a popular spot for anglers.
What is the 'Three Lakes Hike' in Vosges?
The 'Three Lakes Hike' is a popular and challenging hiking route that typically connects Lac Blanc, Lac Noir, and Lac des Truites (Lac du Forlet). This hike offers diverse scenery, from the unique white sands of Lac Blanc to the dark, forested shores of Lac Noir and the high-altitude beauty of Lac des Truites.
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