Festival International de Géographie 2026: your cultural road trip by van in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges

Discover the FIG, one of the largest gatherings of geography enthusiasts, and explore the Vosges by van with our top picks.

Picture a whole town alive with the rhythm of continents, maps and tales of adventure. From 2 to 5 October 2026, Saint-Dié-des-Vosges hosts the Festival International de Géographie (FIG), a one-of-a-kind event blending conferences, exhibitions, workshops and encounters with explorers, cartographers and photographers. Free to attend, the FIG takes over the town centre and the banks of the Meurthe with a packed programme for all ages. In a van, you can enjoy the region’s unspoilt natural setting, from Vosges forests to lakes, extending the experience long after the festival ends.

Festival International de Géographie

Dive into the fascinating world of geography with hundreds of activities, immersive exhibitions and lively debates. For one weekend, the FIG turns Saint-Dié-des-Vosges into the global capital of the discipline.

Parc naturel régional des Ballons des Vosges

Less than an hour’s drive away, this protected park offers breathtaking landscapes of rounded peaks, peat bogs and dense forests. Perfect for a hike or a picnic with views of the Alps on a clear day.

Lac de Gérardmer

This Vosges lake, nestled in a wooded valley, is ideal for a lakeside stroll or a swim if the weather permits. Its footpaths provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

Perched on a rocky spur, this restored medieval castle overlooks the Alsace plain and offers a glimpse into the history of the Holy Roman Empire. The guided tour reveals captivating anecdotes about the lives of lords of old.

Where to sleep for Festival International de Géographie

Our clever picks near the site, from closest to quietest.

Where to sleep nearby

Motorhome area in countryside Nompatelize Motorhome area ★ 4.9 Private forest park, 2 pitches under walnut trees. Electricity and water for 5 €/night, 8 km (9 min). › Denipaire Parking ★ 4.7 Shaded forest car park at Col de la Crénée. Hiking nearby, 4 km (5 min). › Countryside stream parking Pair-et-Grandrupt Parking ★ 4.2 Rural setting by a stream. Flat and spacious ground, 5 km (6 min). › Motorhome area with electricity Saint-Dié-des-Vosges Motorhome area ★ 4 Wooded area near the river, 40 spaces. Services included, 1.5 km from the centre (12 min walk). › Sheltered parking Roche Saint-Martin Saint-Dié-des-Vosges Parking ★ 4 Sheltered car park 100 m from Roche Saint-Martin. Covered tables, view of Saint-Dié, 22 min walk. › Intermarché parking Saint-Dié-des-Vosges Parking ★ 3.5 Intermarché car park open overnight. Bakery and fuel on site, 11 min walk. ›

See all spots on the map