The Vosges have around twenty natural lakes, several of which allow and equip swimming in summer. The contrast with summer heat is striking.
The classics
Lac de Gérardmer
The largest and most developed: supervised beaches, water sports, lakeside restaurants. Water up to 24°C in August. Very busy.
Lac de Longemer
Less packed than Gérardmer, a calmer feel. Supervised beach in summer, forest setting.
Lac de Retournemer
Tiny, confidential, peaceful. Wild swimming is tolerated.
The altitude lakes
Lac des Corbeaux
Tolerated but with no facilities. Cool water (16-19°C), rocky shore. A magical dip at the end of a hot afternoon.
Lac Blanc (Alsace side)
At 1054 m, stunning setting, cold water (13-16°C), swim at your own risk. Strictly forbidden during thunderstorms.
Lac de Blanchemer
Swimming is forbidden to protect the ecosystem.
Equipped bathing areas
Saulxures nautical base
Supervised pool, grassy beach, ideal for families. Quieter than Gérardmer.
Cornimont waterside
Local, peaceful, perfect for a weekday afternoon.
Tips
- Avoid thunderstorms: lakes are dangerous when lightning strikes
- Water shoes for rocky beds
- Sunscreen: strong reflection off the water
- Warm towel for after: the air stays cool even in August
The perfect routine
Morning hike up the Hohneck, picnic by the lake, afternoon swim, back to the chalet for a hot shower and dinner. A classic Vosges summer day.
Book your chalet in La Bresse to make the most of these lakes all summer long.
Frequently asked questions
Is the water in the Vosges lakes cold?
It stays cool even in high summer: 18 to 22°C at Gérardmer and Longemer, 15 to 18°C at altitude lakes like Lac des Corbeaux. Pleasant when it's hot, more demanding in early season.
Which Vosges lakes have supervised swimming?
Lac de Gérardmer, Lac de Longemer and the Saulxures nautical base offer supervised beaches in summer. Most high-altitude lakes allow swimming at your own risk, with no lifeguards.
Can you swim at Lac de Blanchemer?
No. Swimming is strictly forbidden at Lac de Blanchemer to protect its fragile peat-bog ecosystem. Perfect for a walk, not for bathing.
What's the best time of day to swim?
Late afternoon, between 3 and 6 pm, when the surface water has warmed up and the light is at its best for photos.