Gérardmer and the Vosges by van: 6 must-see spots you can’t miss

With lakes, forests and peaks, the Vosges offer the perfect playground for nature lovers and those seeking untouched landscapes. Here are six hidden gems to explore by van or motorhome for an authentic road trip.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 3 October 2026

Gérardmer, the jewel of the Vosges, is the ideal starting point for discovering a region where vast open spaces and local traditions blend seamlessly. From hikes and breathtaking views to charming villages, here’s a selection of spots that will turn your van adventure into an unforgettable experience. Lace up your walking boots, grab your camera and channel your inner explorer, the road awaits!

Lac de Gérardmer

This glacial lake, ringed by forests and mountains, is the beating heart of the resort. A lakeside stroll or a summer swim are essential to soak up this idyllic setting.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping des sapins Campsite ★ 4.4 200 m from the lake, shaded and spacious pitches. Rating 4.4, 187 reviews, 9 min walk. › La Ferme Grandemange Campsite ★ 4.6 Authentic farm with Munster cheese, 2 sunny pitches. Rating 4.6, 5 min drive. › Quiet forest parking Xonrupt-Longemer Parking ★ 4.7 Secluded forest car park, water source and dense woodland. Rating 4.7, 5 min drive. › Chemin du Rond Faing, Gérardmer Motorhome area ★ 3.7 Paid car park at the foot of the slopes, €8 per night. Narrow but flat pitches, 37 min walk. › Central village parking Liézey Parking ★ 5 Tarmacked car park in the village centre, mountain bike trail access. Rating 5, 5 min drive. ›

Ballon d'Alsace

The highest peak in the Vosges, this summit offers sweeping views of the Alps on clear days. Accessible by car or on foot, it’s a must for lovers of wide-open spaces.

Where to sleep nearby

Ballon d'Alsace parking Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle Parking ★ 4.5 At the foot of Ballon d'Alsace, toilets and 24-hour water. 10 min walk, rating 4.5 (56 reviews). › Camping Les Deux Ballons Campsite ★ 4.5 Family-friendly campsite in the valley, giant pool. 5 km drive, rating 4.5 (32 reviews). › Camping-car parking Saint-Maurice-sur-Moselle Parking ★ 4.5 Large, quiet ski car park at altitude. 7 km drive, rating 4.5 (15 reviews). › Camping à la ferme — Sewen Campsite ★ 4.7 Warm farm-inn, local produce. 13 min walk, rating 4.7 (13 reviews). › Flat parking near Planche des Belles Filles in Plancher-les-Mines Parking ★ 4.7 Tarmacked forest car park, riverside. 7 km drive, rating 4.7 (21 reviews). ›

Cascade des Bas-Rupts

One of the Vosges’ most beautiful waterfalls, reached after a forest hike. Its wild surroundings and soothing sound make it a magical spot.

Where to sleep nearby

Private motorhome area in Éloyes Motorhome area ★ 4.8 Peaceful Moselle riverside spot, €5 per night. 5 min access, fishing and hiking on offer. › Panoramic view parking Le Tholy Parking ★ 5 Panoramic views, free. 5 min drive, picnic tables included. › Camping JPvacances Campsite ★ 4.1 4-star campsite, heated pool. 5 min drive, secluded pitches. › Lake and train station motorhome area Remiremont Motorhome area ★ 4 Full amenities, free. 9 min drive, near lake and town centre. › Isolated parking Vagney Parking ★ 4.4 Spectacular mountain views, free. 8 min drive, hiking trail access. ›

Le Markstein

A ski resort in winter and a hiking hotspot in summer, Le Markstein towers over the valley with 360-degree views. A cable car makes reaching the summit effortless.

Where to sleep nearby

Natur'camp Alsace Campsite ★ 4.9 New high-altitude campsite, lush and quiet. 20 pitches, 6 min from Markstein. › Ferme Auberge du Treh Campsite ★ 4.8 Farm-inn with panoramic valley views. 19 min walk, absolute tranquillity. › Forest parking Kruth Parking ★ 4.8 Discreet forest car park by a river. 5 min drive, very peaceful. › Parking with Alps view and summer luge track Fellering Parking ★ 4.4 Unbeatable Alpine views, flat ground. 2 min walk, perfect for sunsets. › Le Wagga Campsite ★ 4.2 Shaded campsite near Markstein’s trail. Ideal for paragliders, 5 min drive. ›

Col de la Schlucht

This legendary pass, at 1,139 metres, is a must for cyclists and hikers. The views over the surrounding valleys are spectacular.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7/5 campsite by Lac de Longemer, 50 m from the beach. 5 min drive. › Forest alcove parking La Bresse Parking ★ 5 Free, quiet forest car park. 7 min drive (7 km). › Auberge de la Chaume du Firstmiss Campsite ★ 4.7 Private car park with panoramic views, meal required at the inn. 6 min drive. › Camping la Vologne Campsite ★ 4.8 4.8/5 nature campsite, by a stream and near a lake. 50 min walk. › Flat parking by ski jump cabin La Bresse Parking ★ 4.4 Free, isolated car park at the foot of a ski jump. 6 min drive (6 km). ›

Village of Munster

A typical Alsatian village, Munster charms visitors with its colourful market, half-timbered houses and famous cheese. A gourmet and cultural stop not to be missed.

Where to sleep nearby

Le Tabor Campsite ★ 5 5-star campsite, upscale vibe 4 km away. 5 min drive, exceptional setting. › Camping le Beau Rivage Campsite ★ 4.6 Riverside, absolute calm and shaded pitches. 44 min walk, ideal for hikers. › Forest quarry parking Labaroche Parking ★ 4.7 Secluded meadow in a former quarry, stargazing guaranteed. 7 min drive, free and untouched nature. › Munster valley parking Soultzeren Parking ★ 4.3 Unbeatable valley views, shaded picnic area. 5 min drive, free and spacious car park. › Camping La Route Verte Campsite ★ 4.3 Shaded municipal campsite, near shops and station. 6 min drive, warm welcome. ›

See all spots on the map