Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein

The Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein is a mountain reservoir at Kruth in the Haut-Rhin department of Alsace, France, set in the Vosges about 115 km south-west of Strasbourg. It is a day-trip destination rather than a city beach, and its freshwater lake has no tide or surf. A lakeside beach operates in summer, and the surrounding setting is forested Vosges hillside, which gives the water a deeper, darker mountain-lake appearance than lowland gravel-pit lakes. The lake is long and open, bordered by woodland, and exposure to wind is moderate rather than strong. Water in Vosges reservoirs tends to be cool even in summer, so swimming suits those who enjoy fresh water. The atmosphere is relaxed and outdoorsy, with families, walkers and picnickers rather than a party crowd. Amenities include the summer lakeside beach, picnic areas and a walking path around the lake, which makes the visit useful for a half day of hiking as well as swimming. Visitors should not assume confirmed lifeguard hours or food outlets and should check locally before travelling, bringing picnic supplies as a precaution. Access is by car: the drive from Strasbourg takes about 1 hour 40 minutes via Colmar and the Thur valley, and there is no direct public transport, so the lake suits visitors with a vehicle. Parking is near the lake, and arriving early on hot summer weekends helps secure a space. The swimming season runs from about June to early September, though the walking path can be enjoyed in other seasons when the water is too cold for bathing. Because mountain weather can change quickly, a light layer is advisable even on warm days. The lake is also a pleasant stop for combining with other Vosges villages and viewpoints in the upper Thur valley.