Gérardmer's lake is the largest natural lake in the Vosges, formed by glacial action, with a lakeside promenade that circles the water and a small resort town on its northern shore. In summer it's used for swimming, pedal boats, and rowing, and in winter the surrounding hills host the town's ski slopes. The town itself grew around textile manufacturing before turning to tourism, and the lakefront is now the center of that trade with cafes and rental kiosks along the promenade.
Lac de Gérardmer is the largest natural lake in the Vosges department of France's Grand Est region, a glacial lake 2.2 km long and 750 metres wide lying at 660 metres altitude in the forested Vosges massif above the town of Gérardmer. The lake is surrounded by spruce forests and the rounded summits of the Vosges, with the resort infrastructure of Gérardmer town on its western bank. The resort operates as a ski destination in winter — three ski areas with approximately 44 km of pistes are accessible nearby — and as a watersports and walking destination in summer. The lakeside promenade is approximately 5 km in circumference and accessible on foot throughout the year; the southern shore has supervised swimming beaches in July–August. Pedalo, kayak, and rowing boat rentals are available from quays near the town centre. The surrounding forest offers a network of marked hiking trails; the most popular route ascends through beech and spruce to the Lac du Retournemer and the Lac de Longemer, two smaller glacial lakes, in an approximately 2-hour circuit. The GR5 long-distance trail passes above the lake. Gérardmer's resort facilities — hotels, restaurants, and the annual Fantastic'Arts fantasy film festival in January — make it a complete multi-day destination. The town hosts the Fête des Jonquilles (daffodil festival) in late March. Gérardmer is 40 km from Épinal and accessible by bus from Épinal TGV station.
| Admission | Free (lakeside); boat rental €12–€18/~$13–$20 per 30 min |
|---|---|
| Hours | Outdoor area open 24/7; lakeside amenities seasonal (May–Sep) |
| Typical visit | Half-day to full day |
| Best time | Summer (July–August) for watersports; winter for ski resort atmosphere |
| Getting there | Car from Épinal (40 km); no direct train — bus from Épinal TGV station |
| Address | Promenade du Lac, 88400 Gérardmer |
Location
Promenade du Lac, 88400 Gérardmer
48.0673, 6.8767 View on map
Highlights
- 2.2-km glacial lake at 660 metres — the largest natural lake in the Vosges
- 5-km lakeside promenade accessible year-round on foot
- Summer swimming beaches with lifeguards (July–August)
- Forest hike to Lac du Retournemer and Lac de Longemer — two additional glacial lakes
- Winter ski resort with approximately 44 km of nearby pistes
Tips for visiting
- Pedalo and kayak rentals are available from the main quay near the town centre — no booking required
- The forest trail to Lac du Retournemer and Lac de Longemer is the best walking route; allow 2 hours return
- July–August are peak summer months; arrive at the lakeside before 10:00 to secure parking and beach space
- Gérardmer's hotel stock is substantial — advance booking for December–February ski weekends is essential
- The surrounding forest trails are excellent for Nordic walking and trail running in the shoulder seasons
When to visit
July–August for swimming and watersports. September–October for autumn foliage and quiet hiking. December–February for ski resort atmosphere. Late March for the Fête des Jonquilles daffodil festival.
Accessibility
The main lakeside promenade on the town side is paved and accessible by wheelchair. The natural shoreline and forest hiking trails involve unpaved terrain and are not wheelchair-accessible. Most town centre facilities are at street level.
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Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to access the lake?
Lakeside access and the promenade are free. Boat rentals and summer beach facilities carry charges.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes — the summer swimming beach, pedalo rentals, and gentle lakeside walk make it an excellent family destination.
How long should a visit take?
A half-day covers the lake promenade and a short boat rental; a full day allows for the forest lake circuit hike as well.