Gérardmer, nicknamed the pearl of the Vosges, is built around its glacial lake, the largest natural lake in the Vosges. Thermal spa town, ski resort and lively tourist hub year-round, it’s one of the big destinations in the massif.
Around the lake
The Gérardmer lake (115 ha, 38 m deep) offers a 6.5 km walk or cycle loop, supervised beaches in summer, pedalos, rowing boats, sailing and paddle-boarding. Swimming up to 24°C in August.
The village
Casino, cinema, shops, restaurants, Thursday-morning market. Lively but still human scale. In winter, fairy lights turn the centre into a Christmas stage set.
Key events
- Fantastic’ Arts in January
- Christmas market in December
- Daffodil Festival in April (odd-numbered years)
- Night lake tours in summer
Out of the village
- Saut des Cuves: lovely waterfalls 10 min away
- Route des Crêtes: 20-min drive to the Hohneck
- Skiing at La Mauselaine then at La Bresse Hohneck
- Spa at the Grand Hôtel
Where to eat
Several good tables facing the lake, Vosges brasseries, crêperies. Price level: similar to Gérardmer, slightly above La Bresse.
Base or day-trip?
For a weekend, Gérardmer is ideal. For a week with family and mountain activities, La Bresse is quieter and works as an excellent base with a day trip to Gérardmer.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Gérardmer from La Bresse?
15 km, about 20 minutes by car. A panoramic mountain road, with shuttles in high season.