15 minutes from La Bresse, Saulxures-sur-Moselotte is home to one of the finest water sports bases in the Vosges: a lake fitted out in a superb forest setting.
The water sports base in detail
The Saulxures lake covers around 5 hectares in a Vosges forest setting. The supervised swimming zone reaches 1.5 to 2 metres depth, marked by buoys and lane ropes. Generally 4 to 5 lanes delimit spaces for swimmers, non-swimmers and water sports.
Indicative prices (check on site each season):
- Adult day ticket: around 5 to 6 €
- Child (under 12): around 3 to 4 €
- Free for under-4s
- Season pass available for extended stays
Supervision is provided by qualified lifeguards every day in July and August, between 1pm and 7pm. Outside these hours, swimming remains possible but without official supervision.
Activities
- Supervised swimming in a natural sandy-bottomed basin
- Pedalos and rowing boats for hire by the hour
- Paddle and canoe by the day or hour
- Sailing: local club, lessons and hire for beginners from age 8
- Shaded grassy beach with maintained lawn
- Playground for children (slide, swings, sandpit)
- Snack bar with sandwiches, ice cream and cold drinks
Fishing in Saulxures and the Moselotte
The Moselotte running alongside Saulxures is a category 1 fishery: brown trout, grayling and minnows abound. Fishing is possible from the accessible banks near the water sports base, with a day licence (available from local tobacconists and online).
Species present in the area:
- Brown trout: the main species, active fishing March to September
- Grayling: rarer, protected, catch-and-release compulsory
- Bullhead and minnow: companion species
The Moselotte is monitored by the local fishing association; check local regulations before casting.
Cycling on the greenway: from Saulxures to Cornimont
The Moselotte greenway follows a former railway line over around 10 kilometres between Saulxures and Cornimont. Entirely flat or gently rolling, asphalted, no motor traffic: ideal for families with young children or bike trailers.
Route characteristics:
- Distance: around 10 km (one way), 20 km return
- Cumulative elevation: under 80 metres, very easy
- Estimated time: 1h30 one way for a family, 45 min for a sporty cyclist
- Water points and benches every 2 to 3 km
- Possible to end in Cornimont, the next town along
The ride starts from the water sports base car park, which has bike racks. Bikes available to hire in Saulxures or in La Bresse.
Restaurants in Saulxures
A few solid addresses for lunch or dinner after a day at the lake:
- Village brasserie: local cuisine, tartes flambées on weekends, menus between 14 and 22 €
- Pizzeria La Moselotte: wood-fired pizzas, terrace service in summer, great with children
- Snack bar at the water sports base: sandwiches, crepes, salads, consumed directly on the beach
In the evening, it remains easy to head back to La Bresse for a wider choice of restaurants, 15 minutes by road.
Saulxures or La Bresse: where to sleep?
| Criterion | Saulxures | La Bresse |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Quiet village, low tourism | Lively resort, shops |
| Accommodation price | 10 to 20% cheaper on average | Wider range, more high-end chalets |
| Winter ski access | 20 min from the slopes | Ski-in possible |
| Water sports base access | 5 min on foot | 15 min by car |
| Services | Grocery, bakery, pharmacy | Full range of shops |
Saulxures suits families who prioritise calm and summer swimming. La Bresse remains more versatile and offers more evening entertainment.
Typical family day: 9am to 6pm
9:00am: leave the chalet or hotel in La Bresse. 15-minute drive via the D43 through Vagney, superb valley scenery.
9:30am: arrive at the water sports base. Set up on the grassy beach. Children discover the playground while adults unpack the cool bag.
10am to 12pm: free swimming (no lifeguard in the morning), pedalos, paddle introduction for older children.
12pm: picnic on the lawn or snack bar. Nap on towels.
1pm to 3pm: supervised swimming opens. Children use the secured zone. Adults can alternate sailing and relaxing.
3:30pm: hire bikes (or use your own), set off on the greenway towards Cornimont. Easy 10 km one way.
5pm: back at the base, last swim or ice cream at the snack.
6pm: head to La Bresse for dinner or evening shopping at the market.
Atmosphere
Mainly local and family clientele, relaxed atmosphere, less crowded than Gérardmer lake. Perfect for a lazy day after hiking mornings.
Access
Free adjacent car park. From La Bresse via the D43 through Vagney, 20 min down a beautiful valley.
See also
Stay in La Bresse in our chalet and alternate lake, forest and mountain.
Frequently asked questions
Is swimming supervised at Saulxures?
Yes in July and August, every day roughly 1pm to 7pm. Paid entry on supervised days, free off-season.
What activities are available?
Supervised swimming, pedalos, boats, paddle, canoe, sailing, grassy beach, playground, snack bar.
Is it child-friendly?
Perfect: sandy bottom, shallow basin, shaded grassy beach, playground. Fewer crowds than at Gérardmer lake.
Distance from La Bresse?
15 min by car via Vagney (D43). Free car park adjacent to the site.