Gérardmer and its Vosges lakes: 5 must-see spots to explore by van or motorhome

Discover Gérardmer, the jewel of the Vosges, and its breathtaking lakeside landscapes. Here are 5 natural sites and landmarks you simply can’t miss on your van or motorhome road trip.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 30 September 2026

Nestled in the heart of the Vosges, Gérardmer captivates with its ever-changing lake reflections, deep forests and mountain atmosphere. With hiking trails, waterfalls and 360-degree panoramas, this destination is perfect for nature lovers and adventurous van-lifers. Here are 5 iconic spots to add to your itinerary, all accessible and tailored to your nomadic travel style.

Lac de Gérardmer

Lac de Gérardmer is the region’s crown jewel, ringed by mountains and forests. Ideal for a lakeside stroll or a picnic with views of the Vosges peaks.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping des sapins Campsite ★ 4.4 200 m from the lake, large shaded pitches. Rated 4.4, 187 reviews, 9 min walk. › The Granges Bas Campsite ★ 4.6 Family-friendly forest campsite with pool and bar. Rated 4.6, 55 reviews, 43 min walk. › Parking below the road Sapois Parking ★ 5 Former quarry, 5 pitches in the heart of nature. Free, quiet, 7 min drive (6 km). › Chemin du Rond Faing, Gérardmer Motorhome area ★ 3.7 Paid car park at the foot of the slopes, €8 per night. Tarmac, narrow pitches, 37 min walk. › La Ferme Grandemange Campsite ★ 4.6 Authentic dairy farm with 2 sunny pitches. Rated 4.6, 5 min drive (5 km). ›

Cascade des Bas-Rupts

This spectacular 20-metre waterfall lies just a few kilometres from Gérardmer. A well-maintained path makes it easy to reach and admire its impressive drop.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 By the shore of Lac de Longemer, beach 50 m away. Rated 4.7, 256 reviews, 7 min drive (6 km). › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Views over Lac de Lispach, hiking trails nearby. Free, 4.6/5, 5 km (6 min drive). › Quiet forest parking Xonrupt-Longemer Parking ★ 4.7 Dense forest, water source, very secluded. Free, 4.7/5, 38 min walk. › The Granges Bas Campsite ★ 4.6 Pool and bar, edge of the forest. 4.6/5, 5 km (5 min drive). › Parking below the road Sapois Parking ★ 5 Former quarry, 5 motorhome pitches. Free, 5/5, 8 min drive (7 km). ›

Le Hohneck

The highest point in the Vosges at 1,363 metres, Le Hohneck delivers exceptional views over the Alps and surrounding valleys. Accessible by car or on foot, it’s a dream spot for lovers of wide-open spaces.

Where to sleep nearby

Quiet parking with ski lifts La Bresse Parking ★ 4.4 At the foot of Hohneck, unbeatable views and ultra-quiet nights. Direct access to hiking trails. › Camping la Vologne Campsite ★ 4.8 Nature campsite by a stream, 5 min from Lac de Longemer. Electricity and clean facilities. › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Free car park at Lac de Lispach, trails nearby. Toilets and forest setting. › Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 5-star campsite by Lac de Longemer, beach 50 m away. Warm welcome and spacious pitches. › Green lake parking Soultzeren Parking ★ 4.4 Mountain car park at 1,000 m, hiking trails to Lac Vert. Sloping ground but flat pitches. ›

Lac de Longemer

Less crowded than Lac de Gérardmer, Lac de Longemer is a peaceful haven surrounded by fir trees. Its calm waters and wild setting make it perfect for a nature getaway.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite by Lac de Longemer, 50 m from the beach. Warm welcome, spacious pitches with open views. › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Free car park by Lac de Lispach, lake views. Access to varied hiking trails, 28 min walk. › Camping la Vologne Campsite ★ 4.8 Peaceful nature campsite by a stream, 1 km from the lake. 10A electricity, ideal for a relaxing stop. › Forest parking near Col de Schlucht Xonrupt-Longemer Parking ★ 4.4 Vast, flat forest spot near Col de la Schlucht. Unique atmosphere with an abandoned shelter, 5 min drive. › Quiet parking with ski lifts La Bresse Parking ★ 4.4 Gravel car park at the foot of Hohneck, panoramic views. Very quiet nights despite daytime traffic, 6 min drive. ›

La Roche du Diable

This iconic rock, shaped like a devil’s head, overlooks the Vologne valley. A short hike leads to it, rewarding you with a stunning view of the Vosges landscapes.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 4.7 By Lac de Longemer, beach 50 m away. Warm welcome, clean facilities (7 min drive). › Parking below the road Sapois Parking ★ 5 Secluded former quarry, 5 pitches on flat ground. Access via drivable track (8 min drive). › The Granges Bas Campsite ★ 4.6 Edge of the forest, pool and bar on site. Spacious pitches (5 min drive). › Lakeside parking La Bresse Parking ★ 4.6 Views over Lac de Lispach, trails nearby. Toilets available (6 min drive). › Camping A l'Eau Vive Campsite ★ 4.7 By the Vologne river, grassy pitches. Heated facilities, 10A electricity (6 min drive). ›

Col de la Schlucht

This legendary pass connects Gérardmer to Munster, offering breathtaking views of the Vosges ridges. A stop here is a must to soak in the scenery and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

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. › Camping la Vologne Campsite ★ 4.8 4.8/5 nature campsite, stream and lake 1 km away. Absolute peace, electricity available. › View parking Soultzeren Parking ★ 4.7 Free car park with unbeatable valley views. Ultra-quiet nights, 5 min drive. › Auberge La Chaume de Schmargult Campsite ★ 4.6 Inn at 1,300 m, panoramic views and local dishes. 5 min drive, private parking. › Forest parking near Col de Schlucht Xonrupt-Longemer Parking ★ 4.4 Flat, isolated forest spot near the pass. Unique atmosphere, 17 min walk. ›

See all spots on the map