Gérardmer and the Vosges lakes: 6 must-see spots to explore by van or motorhome

With deep forests, crystal-clear lakes and rounded peaks, the Vosges offer the perfect playground for van road-trippers. Here are six gems you won’t want to miss.

Gérardmer, the jewel of the Vosges, and its neighbouring lakes are an invitation to freedom. Here, you’ll drive past mountain lakes, roaring waterfalls and picturesque villages, with landscapes that shift with the seasons. Ready to hit the road? These unmissable stops promise a van or motorhome adventure where nature reigns supreme and every pause feels like an escape.

Lac de Gérardmer

At the heart of the resort, this glacial lake is the crown jewel of the Vosges, perfect for a lakeside stroll or a refreshing swim. Its turquoise waters mirror the surrounding peaks, offering a stunning view in every season.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping des sapins Campsite ★ 4.4 200 m from the lake, shaded and quiet pitches. Clean facilities, ideal for families. › La Ferme Grandemange Campsite ★ 4.6 Authentic dairy farm, 2 sunny pitches. Munster cheese tasting available. › Lakeside road parking Gérardmer Parking ★ 4.8 Free car park by the lake, unobstructed views. Recycling bins, pedestrian access. › Parking below the road Sapois Parking ★ 5 Former secluded quarry, 5 flat spaces. Preserved nature, drivable access. › Motorhome area near the lake Gérardmer Motorhome area ★ 3.3 Town centre 4 minutes from the lake, €8 per night. Nearby shops, tarmac parking. ›

Cascade des Bas-Rupts

Just a few kilometres from Gérardmer, this 20-metre waterfall is one of the most impressive in the Vosges. A well-maintained trail lets you admire its sheer drop amid lush forest.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite by Lake Longemer, 6 km away. Spacious pitches with open views, clean facilities. › Central village parking Liézey Parking ★ 5 Free car park in the heart of Liézey, 6 km away. Absolute peace, ideal for hikes and inn access. › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly 4.7-star campsite by the River Vologne, 6 km away. Grass pitches, electricity and heated facilities. › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Free car park at Lake Lispach, 6 km away. Stunning views, toilets and hiking trail access on foot. › The Granges Bas Campsite ★ 4.6 4.6-star campsite on the forest edge, 5 km away. Pool, bar and shaded pitches near Gérardmer. ›

Lac de Longemer

Less crowded than its neighbour Gérardmer, this lake offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a picnic or a hike along its shores. Its calm waters are framed by fir and beech trees, creating an idyllic setting.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite by the lake, direct beach access. 12-minute walk, immaculate facilities. › Forest alcove parking La Bresse Parking ★ 5 Free forest car park, quiet and discreet. 6-minute drive, preserved natural setting. › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly 4.7-star campsite by the River Vologne. 19-minute walk, spacious grass pitches. › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Free car park with views of Lake Lispach. 28-minute walk, nearby hiking trails. › Auberge La Chaume de Schmargult Campsite ★ 4.6 4.6-star mountain campsite with traditional inn. 6-minute drive, panoramic views of the peaks. ›

Hohneck

This iconic peak stands at 1,363 metres and offers a 360-degree view of the Vosges, and on clear days, as far as the Alps. Accessible by car to the car park, it’s perfect for a short but spectacular hike.

Where to sleep nearby

Quiet parking with ski lifts La Bresse Parking ★ 4.4 At the foot of Hohneck, ultra-quiet nights despite daytime traffic. 16-minute walk, stunning views. › Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7/5-star campsite by Lake Longemer, beach 50 m away. 6-minute drive, immaculate facilities. › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Free car park at Lake Lispach, trails nearby. 6-minute drive, preserved natural setting. › Auberge de la Chaume du Firstmiss Campsite ★ 4.7 Private mountain car park with views, meal required at the inn. 39-minute walk, alpine atmosphere. › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly 4.7/5-star campsite by the River Vologne, grass and electricity. 8-minute drive, absolute peace. ›

Lac de Retournemer

Nestled in a glacial cirque, this is the highest lake in the Vosges, reached after a 45-minute walk from the Col de la Schlucht. Its wild setting and dark waters make it a magical spot, especially at dawn.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite by Lake Longemer. 25-minute walk, immaculate facilities. › Quiet forest parking Xonrupt-Longemer Parking ★ 4.8 Free, quiet forest car park, 6-minute drive. Water source and dense forest. › Auberge de la Chaume du Firstmiss Campsite ★ 4.7 Private mountain car park with panoramic views. 5-minute drive, meal required at the inn. › Pond parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.3 Discreet spot by Étang de la Thénine. 3 flat pitches, 5-minute drive. › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly 4.7-star campsite by the River Vologne. Spacious pitches, 49-minute walk. ›

Col de la Schlucht

A must-pass point for connecting Gérardmer to Munster, this mountain pass offers breathtaking views over the Vosges valleys. In summer, it’s a popular spot for mountain biking or simply soaking in the scenery from the car park.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 Lakeside, 50 m from the beach, 4.7-star rating. 5-minute drive (5 km). › View parking Soultzeren Parking ★ 4.6 Breathtaking valley views, ultra-quiet nights. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Auberge de la Chaume du Firstmiss Campsite ★ 4.7 Private mountain car park with views, meal required. 6-minute drive (6 km). › Camping des Jonquilles Campsite ★ 4.4 Direct access to Lake Longemer, natural setting and swimming. 6-minute drive (5 km). › Nature reserve parking Plainfaing Parking ★ 4.5 Nature reserve, very quiet. 6-minute drive (6 km), inn 2 minutes away. ›

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