Gérardmer and its Vosges wonders: 5 unforgettable van or motorhome escapes

Between a sparkling lake and wooded peaks, Gérardmer is a natural gem where adventure awaits at every turn. Here are 5 must-see spots, all accessible by van or motorhome.

Gérardmer is the very soul of the Vosges in a single town. Here, the mirror-like lake reflects the mountains, trails wind through pines and rocks, and every season brings its own surprises. Whether you love hiking, breathtaking views or peaceful strolls, this corner of the Vosges will win you over. Ready to explore? Here are 5 unmissable places to add to your road trip.

Lac de Gérardmer

The town’s crown jewel, this 2.2 km² glacial lake is perfect for a lakeside stroll or a summer swim. Its calm waters and mountain backdrop make it an unmissable photo spot.

Where to sleep nearby

Lakeside road parking Gérardmer Parking ★ 4.8 Uninterrupted lake views, 7 minutes' walk from the centre. Free entry, recycling bins on site. › La Ferme Grandemange Campsite ★ 4.6 Stay on a farm with homemade Munster cheese, 5 km from the lake. Sunny pitches, warm welcome. › Camping des sapins Campsite ★ 4.4 200 m from the lake, shaded and spacious pitches. Quiet family campsite, 9 minutes' walk from the centre. › Parking below the road Sapois Parking ★ 5 Former isolated quarry, 5 spaces in the heart of nature. Access via a drivable track, 7 minutes by car. › Chemin du Rond Faing, Gérardmer Motorhome area ★ 3.7 Tarmacked car park at the foot of the slopes, €8 per night. Narrow spaces but convenient, 37 minutes' walk from the lake. ›

Ballon d'Alsace

The highest point in the Vosges at 1,247 metres, this summit offers a 360-degree panoramic view on clear days. Accessible by car or on foot, it’s one of the region’s most stunning viewpoints.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Deux Ballons Campsite ★ 4.5 Family campsite in the Vosges valley, with a pool and large flat pitches. 5 minutes by car. › Ballon d'Alsace parking Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle Parking ★ 4.5 Free car park at the foot of Ballon d'Alsace, toilets and water available. 10 minutes' walk. › Flat parking near Planche des Belles Filles in Plancher-les-Mines Parking ★ 4.7 Forest car park by the river, tarmacked and flat. 8 minutes by car (7 km). › Camping-car parking Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle Parking ★ 4.5 Large ski resort car park, quiet and secluded at altitude. 7 minutes by car (7 km). › Camping à la ferme — Sewen Campsite ★ 4.5 Farm campsite with local cuisine and a warm welcome. 13 minutes' walk. ›

Cascade des Bas-Rupts

A spectacular 20-metre waterfall, reachable after a short hike from the lake. The sound of the water and the coolness of the place make it a refreshing stop.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping JPvacances Campsite ★ 4.4 4-star family campsite with a heated pool, 5 minutes by car (4 km). Spacious, isolated pitches on wooden terraces. › Private motorhome area in Éloyes Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Private area by the Moselle, €5 per night, 5 minutes by car (5 km). Warm welcome and ideal setting for fishing and hiking. › Lake and train station motorhome area Remiremont Motorhome area ★ 4 Free area with full facilities, 9 minutes by car (8 km). Close to the lake and town centre, spacious pitches. › Parking before the forest barrier Le Tholy Parking ★ 4.8 Isolated forest clearing, free, 7 minutes by car (7 km). Shaded and spacious, access via a forest road. › Riverside swimming parking Le Syndicat Parking ★ 4.4 Car park by the Moselle, free, 6 minutes by car (6 km). Direct river access, 2 motorhome spaces. ›

Rocher de la Filature

This iconic rock overlooks Gérardmer and offers an unbeatable view of the lake and town. Ideal for a picnic or a moment of quiet contemplation.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Pré de Charlet Campsite ★ 4.8 Family campsite by the Jonte river, rated 4.8. 12 minutes' walk, immaculate facilities. › Le Village, Lanuéjols Motorhome area ★ 4.3 Free area in a mountain village, full facilities. 7 km from Rocher, guaranteed peace. › Nature parking Veyreau Parking ★ 5 Wild car park at altitude, panoramic views. 5 km by car, flat and isolated terrain. › Camping de la Cascade Campsite ★ 4.8 Campsite with a waterfall and views of the Causse. 32 minutes' walk, shaded pitches. › Rue du 19 Mars 1962, Meyrueis Motorhome area ★ 3.8 Free area in the town centre, service point. 7 minutes' walk, near the river. ›

Col de la Schlucht

This legendary pass at 1,139 metres connects Gérardmer to Munster and is famous for its grand landscapes. In summer and winter alike, it’s a must for nature lovers.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite by Lake Longemer, 5 minutes' access. Beach 50 m away, immaculate facilities. › View parking Soultzeren Parking ★ 4.6 Free car park with views over the Munster valley, 5 minutes by car. Ultra-quiet night, narrow access. › Auberge de la Chaume du Firstmiss Campsite ★ 4.7 Private car park at altitude on the Crêtes road, 6 minutes. Clear views, meal required at the inn. › La Grange Mauselaine Campsite ★ 4.4 12-hectare meadow by Lake Longemer, 4 minutes by car. Wild setting, limited electricity. › Wooded parking with stream Soultzeren Parking ★ 4.5 Forest car park 7 minutes away, lake and stream 100 m away. Three levels, stony path. ›

Vallée des Lacs

A collection of high-altitude lakes like Lac Blanc or Lac Noir, perfect for water-based hikes. The scenery here is wild and untouched, a true delight for mountain enthusiasts.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite by Lake Longemer, beach access 50 m away. Immaculate facilities, peaceful atmosphere. › Forest alcove parking La Bresse Parking ★ 5 Free forest car park 6 km away, very quiet. Ideal for a night in a van among the pines. › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star family campsite by the Vologne. Grass pitches, heated facilities. › Quiet parking with ski lifts La Bresse Parking ★ 4.4 Free gravel car park 6 km away, panoramic views. Quiet night despite daytime traffic. › Auberge La Chaume de Schmargult Campsite ★ 4.6 Paid car park at 1,300 m altitude, stunning views. Cosy inn with local dishes. ›

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