Baggersee, Illkirch-Graffenstaden

The Baggersee at Illkirch-Graffenstaden is a former gravel-pit lake on the southern edge of the Strasbourg metropolitan area in Alsace, France, about 8 km from the city centre. It is not a sea beach: the shore is a mix of sand and grass, and the freshwater lake is calm, sheltered and free of tides, waves or surf. Water colour varies with weather and algae levels, typically green-tinged rather than the clear blue of a mountain lake, which is why the municipality tests the water regularly. The lake is open and fairly broad rather than a cove, and the lack of strong exposure makes it gentle for children and casual swimmers. The atmosphere is local and family-oriented, with picnicking on the grass and relaxed sunbathing rather than any party scene. A supervised swimming area operates on the last two weekends of June and daily from 1 July to 31 August, with lifeguards present from 12:00 to 19:00 in July and August. Outside those hours and dates, swimming is unsupervised and visitors bathe at their own risk. Toilets are available on site, and a free summer sports programme called 'Bougez tout l'ete' runs from 14:30 to 17:30 between 8 July and 23 August 2026. Entry is free. Closures by municipal decree are possible after water-quality tests, as happened from 1 to 12 July 2026, so checking the Eurometropole's plans d'eau page before travelling is sensible. Access is straightforward: tram A runs to Illkirch Graffenstaden, followed by a short walk or bus connection, and the journey takes about 25 minutes from central Strasbourg. Cyclists can reach the lake along local routes south of the city. Food options on the shore are limited, so visitors usually bring picnic supplies or buy food in Illkirch-Graffenstaden before arriving. On hot weekends the grass areas fill by early afternoon.