Discover Vosges Lakes

Apart from mountains and stunning views, Les Vosges are packed with natural lakes that are as beautiful as each other. This is our second travel destination in this sublime region: Les Vosges Lakes. Find out where you’ll be visiting in France next. 

The Main Lakes of Vosges

Le Lac Blanc – The White Lake

Le Lac Blanc is a high-altitude lake in the Vosges massif. A big rock named “Rocher Hans” overlooks the lake; on its top is the statue of the Virgin Mary. It is considered the largest lake of glacial origin on the eastern side of the Vosges.

Le Lac Blanc takes its name from the colour of the white quartz sand on the bottom.

At the time, Le Lac Blanc was linked to Le Lac Noir thanks to a water pipe. During peak times, a hydroelectric power station creates electricity and recharges Le Lac Blanc in water by a pump system during off-peak times. 

Nowadays, because of dilapidated installations, hydroelectric activity no longer works.

Features: 

-1.055m above sea level  

-29 ha in surface

-72m maximal depth 

Le Lac Noir – The Black Lake

Le Lac Noir is a glacial lake located under the crest of the eastern slope of the Vosges massif at an overage altitude of 935 metres.

Le Lac Noir takes its name from the colour of its peat bog bottom. Le Lac Noir is incredibly similar to Le Lac Blanc, except that it is smaller and shallower. Even though the hydroelectric installation no longer works, both lakes are still linked. This installation was created by René Koechlin, an engineer, between 1928 and 1934. 

They began by adding a 4.6-metre-diameter gallery linking the two lakes. Then, the hydroelectric power station was built on the northwest shore of Le Lac Noir. It uses four reversible alternators with a total power of 80 megawatts.

Features: 

-955m above sea level  

-14 ha in surface

-45m maximal depth 

The Legend of Le Lac Noir

The legend tells that Jean de la Roche’s Castle (also called Hans Von Felsenstein Castle) was built on the big rock overlooking Le Lac Blanc, later named “Rocher Hans.” 

A shepherd famous for his piety cared for the nobleman’s cows on the shores of the lake.

On the evening of All Saints’ Day, the shepherd went to his door to complain of the noise when the Lord was having a great feast. The Lord sends the shepherd packing and continues his feast.

The Saints witness this scene and show their discontentment by triggering a terrible earthquake that demolishes the Castle. The only remains of this Castle are a rock: “Rocher Hans.” As legend has it, the water of both lakes, White and Black, darkens, and no more vegetation grows here. 

It was claimed that a human sacrifice could lift this curse.

One day, a vulture kidnaps the son of the wicked Lord of Pflixburg and throws him into the White Lake as a punishment towards the Lord, and the son drowns.  After this, the waters of Le Lac Blanc became crystal clear, while those of Le Lac Noir remained impenetrable and dark.

Le Lac Vert – The Green Lake

Le Lac Vert, also called Soultzeren Lake, is a small lake on the Alsatian side of Les Vosges at the bottom of the Munster valley. It is located at the bottom of the Tanet massif, which rises between 1.000 and 1.280 meters above sea level.

Le Lac Vert takes its name from the reflection of the fir trees surrounding it and from the algae that grow from late June to late July. The lake’s water becomes murky and green.

Features

-1044m above sea level  

-7.2 ha in surface

-17m maximal depth

Le Lac de Lispach 

Le Lac de Lispach is an ancient glacial lake that became a peat bog through a slow and long evolution. This transformation was carried out following successive colonisations by different types of plants. The rotting of these plants forms peat, which is also used for the distillation of whiskey in Ireland.

Lispach peat reaches a maximum of 6 metres, corresponding to about 10,000 years of plant decomposition. These successive layers of plants allow scientists to examine and understand climate and flora changes in the region.

Features: 

-909m above sea level  

-12 ha in surface

-9m maximal depth 

Gérardmer’s Lake

How not to forget Gerardmer’s Lake! This fantastic natural lake is in the Massif des Vosges, in Gérardmer City. Also called “Les Vosges’ Pearl”, it biggest natural lake in the Vosges. 

Features: 

-660m above sea level  

-1.16 km square in surface

-38,4m maximal depth 

Tips for Visiting Vosges Lakes

For hiking lovers, take your backpack, a snack, a big bottle of water and enjoy a massive hike of 26km between the 4 mains Vosges lakes: 

-From Le Lac Blanc to Le Lac Noir 

-From Le Lac Noir to Le Lac Vert

-From Le Lac Vert to L’étang des Dames

-From L’étang des Dames to Le Lac Blanc

If you do this, you will have travelled 26 km and gained an elevation of +1400m. Just be prepared for the day trip – it takes around 7 hours!

Hiking Around the Vosges Lakes

The Vosges Mountains are a hiker’s paradise, and the lakes are often the focal point of many of the region’s best trails. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a gentle walk, the lakes offer something for everyone.

• Circular Walks: Most larger lakes, such as Gérardmer, Longemer, and Lac des Corbeaux, have well-maintained paths that circle the water. These trails are generally easy to moderate, making them suitable for families and casual walkers.
• Challenging Trails: For those seeking a more strenuous hike, trails like the “Sentier des Roches” near Lac Blanc or the hike up to the Hohneck summit (the highest peak in the Vosges) offer incredible views and a more challenging adventure.
• Mountain Biking: The Vosges also offer fantastic opportunities for mountain bikers. Many of the trails around the lakes are accessible to cyclists, and there are dedicated mountain biking routes that take you through the forests and up into the mountains.

The Cultural and Historical Significance of the Lakes

The lakes of the Vosges are not just beautiful natural features but also cultural and historical significance. For centuries, the lakes and their surroundings have inspired local legends, folklore, and traditions.

• Legends of Lac des Corbeaux: According to local folklore, Lac des Corbeaux was formed by the tears of a giant who cried over the loss of his beloved. The dark, mysterious waters of the lake add to the legend’s allure, and the lake is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who drowned in its depths.
• Lac de Gérardmer and Textile Industry: Gérardmer, located by the lake, is historically known for its textile industry. The area’s rivers and lakes provided the water necessary for washing wool and flax, which were used to make high-quality fabrics. Even today, Gérardmer is known for its textile shops, selling traditional linens and fabrics made in the region.

Practical Tips for Visiting Vosges Lakes

If you’re planning a visit to the Vosges Lakes, here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• When to Visit: The best time to visit the Vosges Lakes is late spring, summer, and early autumn. The weather is usually mild, and the lakes are at their most beautiful. However, if you’re interested in winter sports, the lakes around Gérardmer and Lac Blanc are great winter skiing destinations.
• Accommodation: The towns around the lakes, such as Gérardmer and La Bresse, offer a range of accommodation options, from charming hotels to cosy bed-and-breakfasts and campsites. For those looking for a more rustic experience, several campsites near the lakes offer the opportunity to sleep under the stars.
• Getting There: The Vosges Lakes are easily accessible by car, and well-marked parking areas are near the most significant lakes. If you’re travelling without a car, the town of Gérardmer is well connected by bus and train, and you can rent bicycles or use public transport to explore the nearby lakes.

Conclusion

The lakes of the Vosges offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking to hike through the forest, enjoy a peaceful day by the water, or learn about the region’s fascinating history, the Vosges Lakes have something for everyone. With their crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain views, and serene atmosphere, these lakes are an essential destination for anyone looking to discover the hidden gems of France.