10th Anniversary of the Farm Animals Festival
Celebrate the 10th anniversary with local producers, an educational farm, and pony rides. Enjoy weekend concerts, clown shows, and a traditional communal meal for 12€.
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Creutzwald
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Creutzwald
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Take advantage of the early morning hours at Lac de Creutzwald to enjoy nature in complete tranquility.
- Because of its border location, the town is an excellent starting point for trips into the German Saarland.
- Parking around the lake and recreation area is generally free and plentiful.
- The municipal swimming pool is a cheap and popular way to cool off on hot summer days.
🍽 Food
🍽
Quiche Lorraine
Try this Lorraine classic at the bistros and bakeries in the town center.
🍽
Mirabelle plum specialties
Look for desserts, jams, or schnapps made from the regional mirabelle plum.
🍽
Local charcuterie
Discover the French-German culinary blend at the local butchers.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Creutzwald weekly market
Visit the local market on Thursday morning for fresh vegetables, cheese, and regional produce.
🛍
Cross-border shopping
Take advantage of the proximity to Germany for a cross-border shopping trip.
🧘
Lac de Creutzwald
The large lake has idyllic walking paths in the forest and well-equipped picnic areas.
🧘
Parc de la Bisten
A quiet park along the Bisten river, great for a relaxing afternoon.
Water temperature…
Creutzwald is a unique cross-border town in the Moselle department, defined by its industrial past and its remarkable natural recovery. Founded in the 17th century by glassmakers, the town's destiny changed dramatically with the discovery of vast coal seams in the 19th century. Creutzwald holds a symbolic place in French history as the location of the nation's very last operating coal mine, La Houve, which ceased production in 2004. Geographically, it is positioned within the expansive Warndt Forest, a transboundary woodland that stretches into Germany's Saarland. In the decades since the mining decline, the town has reinvented itself as a green leisure hub, centered around the man-made Creutzwald Lake, which has sailing, fishing, and scenic trails. The urban landscape features historic miners' cottages alongside modern developments and cross-border commercial zones. Culturally, the town celebrates its dual heritage, with many residents speaking both French and German, and frequent cultural exchanges occurring across the nearby border.
- Location: Grand Est, France
- Top sights: Lake of Creutzwald · Reservoire Gazel · Parkbad Überherrn
- Nearby: L'Hôpital (6 km)
- Population: ~15.540
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 55 | 57 | 45 | 70 | 65 | 62 | 70 | 55 | 65 | 68 | 77 |
Live webcam – Creutzwald
See what it looks like near Creutzwald right now.
Wadgassen › West: Friedrichweiler - Saarland, Deutschland · 5.6 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Facts
- Closure of France's last coal mine in 2004
- First glass factory established in 1602
- Population of approximately 15,540
- Total city area is 10.74 square kilometers
- Creutzwald Lake covers 12 hectares
- Highest elevation in the area is 330 meters
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→16:206.4 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 10–14 €Entries 12€ · Transport 0€
Morning: We begin our walking tour in the heart of Creutzwald, admiring the stunning architecture of the central Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix. Midday: We continue to the peaceful Lake of Creutzwald, a perfect spot to relax and take in the natural surroundings before heading to the nearby Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima. Afternoon: A brisk walk brings us to the historic Église Sainte-Thérèse, where we can appreciate the regional religious heritage and its distinct charm. Evening: We conclude our day at the Église du Christ-Roi, soaking in the serene atmosphere and reflecting on a lovely day in the city.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Admire the striking neo-Gothic architecture of this central church, which reflects the town's history, and try to visit during morning mass for the best light.
🚶 25'1.08 km
📍
10:25 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
Stroll around this beautiful natural lake that serves as a tranquil oasis in the city, and remember to bring some bread to feed the local ducks along the shaded shores.
🚶 13'0.52 km
⛪
11:38 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima
Take a moment of quiet reflection in this pleasant local church known for its peaceful ambiance, and observe the beautiful stained glass details on the eastern side.
🚶 68'3.23 km
⛪
13:36 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
Discover the distinct architectural charm of Sainte-Thérèse, a testament to regional religious heritage, and take note of the intricately carved wooden pews near the altar.
🚶 34'1.55 km
⛪
15:00 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
End your religious heritage tour at this majestic church offering a sense of local community, and sit briefly in the front pews to appreciate the echoing acoustics inside.
09:00→16:206.4 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 10–14 €Entries 12€ · Transport 0€
Start your rainy morning seeking shelter in the central church. By noon, the misty lake offers a moody, atmospheric walk—wear waterproof boots. Spend the wet afternoon exploring dry, peaceful chapels. End the day finding a cozy spot as the rain continues to fall.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Take shelter inside and admire the stained glass; keep your umbrella handy.
🚶 25'1.08 km
📍
10:25 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
The water looks dramatic in the rain; wear waterproof boots for the muddy lakeside paths.
🚶 13'0.52 km
⛪
11:38 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima
Dry off inside and enjoy the peaceful altar away from the heavy showers outside.
🚶 68'3.23 km
⛪
13:36 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
Another safe haven from the rain, offering quiet architectural beauty and dry respite.
🚶 34'1.55 km
⛪
15:00 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
Finish your wet walk here, shaking off your umbrella in the porch of this cozy space.
09:00→16:206.4 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 10–14 €Entries 12€ · Transport 0€
A crisp winter morning starts at the main church. Midday brings a brisk, chilly walk around the partially frozen lake—bundle up well! In the afternoon, the remaining chapels offer warm retreats. The day ends early as dusk falls around 17:00.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
A warm interior to thaw your hands before facing the freezing winds outside.
🚶 25'1.08 km
📍
10:25 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
A beautiful frozen landscape awaits; wear a windbreaker and thick gloves for this walk.
🚶 13'0.52 km
⛪
11:38 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima
The winter light filtering through the windows is serene; step inside to enjoy the warmth.
🚶 68'3.23 km
⛪
13:36 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
As the cold afternoon sets in, the quiet ambiance inside is well-suited for a winter rest.
🚶 34'1.55 km
⛪
15:00 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
Arrive just before twilight at this contemplative space to escape the biting evening frost.
09:00→16:1412.5 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 16€ · Transport 12€
Morning: Our cycling adventure starts in the city center before we pedal out to the family-friendly Parkbad Überherrn for some active fun. Midday: We bike back toward the city to relax at the beautiful Lake of Creutzwald, taking time to enjoy the calm waters and green shores. Afternoon: A short ride takes us to Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima and then on to the charming Église Sainte-Thérèse. Evening: We finish our cycling tour at the majestic Église du Christ-Roi, resting our legs while appreciating the tranquil religious architecture.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Admire the striking neo-Gothic architecture of this central church, which reflects the town's history, and try to visit during morning mass for the best light.
🚲 23'3.36 km
📍
10:23 · 45'
Parkbad Überherrn
Enjoy a refreshing dip or a relaxing walk at this popular family-friendly swimming complex, and try to visit early in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds at the pools.
🚲 26'3.89 km
📍
11:34 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
Stroll around this beautiful natural lake that serves as a tranquil oasis in the city, and remember to bring some bread to feed the local ducks along the shaded shores.
🚲 6'0.52 km
⛪
12:40 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima
Take a moment of quiet reflection in this appealing local church known for its peaceful ambiance, and observe the beautiful stained glass details on the eastern side.
🚲 22'3.23 km
⛪
13:52 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
Discover the distinct architectural charm of Sainte-Thérèse, a testament to regional religious heritage, and take note of the intricately carved wooden pews near the altar.
🚲 12'1.55 km
⛪
14:54 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
End your religious heritage tour at this majestic church offering a sense of local community, and sit briefly in the front pews to appreciate the echoing acoustics inside.
09:00→16:1412.5 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 16€ · Transport 12€
Cycling in the rain needs caution. Start with the dry church, then ride carefully to the pool. Midday at the lake means wet paths—watch out for slippery leaves! Afternoon stops at the chapels offer essential shelter to wipe down your saddle before heading home.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Keep your bike lights on and dry off inside this historic structure.
🚲 23'3.36 km
📍
10:23 · 45'
Parkbad Überherrn
A great escape from heavy showers; check if the indoor facilities are open.
🚲 26'3.89 km
📍
11:34 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
Bike paths can be slick with wet mud and leaves, so slow down on corners here.
🚲 6'0.52 km
⛪
12:40 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima
A well-suited sheltered rest stop to wipe down your saddle and take a breather.
🚲 22'3.23 km
⛪
13:52 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
Take cover here if the rain gets heavier, and admire the peaceful nave in silence.
🚲 12'1.55 km
⛪
14:54 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
Lock your bike carefully in the wet and enjoy the dry interior of your final stop.
09:00→16:1412.5 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 16€ · Transport 12€
A freezing winter ride! Layer up against the biting wind. Morning visits to the church and pool are brisk. The lake is beautiful but icy—keep moving. Afternoon chapels provide brief, warm stops before the sun sets early around 17:00. Ensure bike lights work!
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Start your chilly ride here, admiring the quiet, frosty morning from inside.
🚲 23'3.36 km
📍
10:23 · 45'
Parkbad Überherrn
The outdoor areas are frozen, but it's a good place to warm up if the interior is open.
🚲 26'3.89 km
📍
11:34 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
Watch out for dangerous ice patches on the cycle path around the frozen water.
🚲 6'0.52 km
⛪
12:40 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame-de-Fatima
Step inside to warm your numb fingers and toes after riding in the biting cold.
🚲 22'3.23 km
⛪
13:52 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
The afternoon cold sets in fast; make this a quick but very warm and cozy stop.
🚲 12'1.55 km
⛪
14:54 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
Arrive before twilight; ensure your bike lights are fully charged for the dark ride back.
09:00→17:0515.4 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 21–29 €Entries 22€ · Transport 3€
Morning: We drive out first to Parkbad Überherrn, enjoying the scenic roads before relaxing at the family-friendly pool and recreation area. Midday: Returning to the natural beauty of Creutzwald, we stop at the serene Lake of Creutzwald and then visit the impressive Reservoir 15000 m³. Afternoon: A short drive brings us to the Reservoire Gazel, continuing our exploration of the area's natural landscapes and water features. Evening: We conclude with a drive to the historic Église Sainte-Thérèse and finally the Église du Christ-Roi.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Admire the striking neo-Gothic architecture of this central church, which reflects the town's history, and try to visit during morning mass for the best light.
🚗 14'3.36 km
📍
10:14 · 45'
Parkbad Überherrn
Enjoy a refreshing dip or a relaxing walk at this popular family-friendly swimming complex, and try to visit early in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds at the pools.
🚗 16'3.89 km
📍
11:15 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
Stroll around this beautiful natural lake that serves as a tranquil oasis in the city, and remember to bring some bread to feed the local ducks along the shaded shores.
🚗 12'2.61 km
📍
12:27 · 60'
Reservoir 15000 m³
Witness the impressive scale of this massive natural reservoir that supports the local ecosystem, and bring a good camera to capture the wide reflective surfaces of the water.
🚗 14'3.2 km
📍
13:41 · 60'
Reservoire Gazel
Explore the fascinating natural surroundings near this significant water reservoir, and wear sturdy walking shoes as the surrounding pathways can be quite uneven and unpaved.
🚗 6'0.75 km
⛪
14:47 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
Discover the distinct architectural charm of Sainte-Thérèse, a testament to regional religious heritage, and take note of the intricately carved wooden pews near the altar.
🚗 8'1.55 km
⛪
15:45 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
End your religious heritage tour at this majestic church offering a sense of local community, and sit briefly in the front pews to appreciate the echoing acoustics inside.
09:00→17:0515.4 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 21–29 €Entries 22€ · Transport 3€
Driving is perfect for a rainy day here! Easy morning transitions between the church and pool keep you dry. The midday lake looks misty and dramatic from your warm car. Afternoon reservoirs are striking under grey skies. Enjoy the final chapels without getting soaked.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Park close to avoid getting soaked; the interior is a great dry refuge.
🚗 14'3.36 km
📍
10:14 · 45'
Parkbad Überherrn
A quick drive over; run quickly inside to dodge the heavy raindrops.
🚗 16'3.89 km
📍
11:15 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
Watch the raindrops dance on the lake from the comfort of your car or under a sturdy umbrella.
🚗 12'2.61 km
📍
12:27 · 60'
Reservoir 15000 m³
The massive structure looks moody in the rain; be careful driving on the wet access roads.
🚗 14'3.2 km
📍
13:41 · 60'
Reservoire Gazel
Keep the wipers on as you view this industrial reservoir from the road; no need to step out into the wet.
🚗 6'0.75 km
⛪
14:47 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
Dash quickly from the car to the church door to enjoy the quiet, dry sanctuary inside.
🚗 8'1.55 km
⛪
15:45 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
Finish the rainy drive safely parked near this final beautiful church.
09:00→17:0515.4 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 21–29 €Entries 22€ · Transport 3€
A heated car makes this winter tour truly pleasant. Morning stops are easy and warm. Midday, the lake and reservoirs look stark and beautiful covered in frost. Drive carefully as icy patches form, and remember dusk falls early around 17:00 at your final stops.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église de l'Exaltation-de-la-Sainte-Croix
Keep the car heater running while you pop in to see the frosty exterior and warm interior.
🚗 14'3.36 km
📍
10:14 · 45'
Parkbad Überherrn
The parking lot might be very slippery, so step out carefully onto the frozen ground.
🚗 16'3.89 km
📍
11:15 · 60'
Lake of Creutzwald
A brief photo stop in the freezing wind before quickly retreating to the warm comfort of your car.
🚗 12'2.61 km
📍
12:27 · 60'
Reservoir 15000 m³
Surrounded by deep frost, this massive structure is an imposing and stark winter sight.
🚗 14'3.2 km
📍
13:41 · 60'
Reservoire Gazel
The winter landscape around the reservoir is barren but striking; stay cozy in your heated vehicle.
🚗 6'0.75 km
⛪
14:47 · 50'
Église Sainte-Thérèse
A wonderfully warm refuge as the bleak winter afternoon quickly fades into the early evening.
🚗 8'1.55 km
⛪
15:45 · 50'
Église du Christ-Roi
The last stop just before complete darkness; enjoy the beautifully illuminated interior.
Sights in the town Creutzwald (6)
Frequently asked questions
What is the Creutzwald Lake?
Creutzwald Lake is an artificial lake, good for walks and water sports.
Is it close to Germany?
Yes, the town is right on the border and has close ties with Saarland.
What is the mining history?
Creutzwald was an important coal mining center in the Lorraine region.
Are there cultural events?
The 'Baltus le Lorrain' hall hosts concerts and fairs throughout the year.
What can I do at the lake?
You can play minigolf, go pedal boating, or jog on the path around the lake.
Creutzwald: where is it located?
Creutzwald is located in Grand Est, France.
Creutzwald: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lake of Creutzwald, Reservoire Gazel, Parkbad Überherrn.
Creutzwald: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Creutzwald: why is it worth visiting?
Creutzwald is a unique cross-border town in the Moselle department, defined by its industrial past and its remarkable natural recovery.
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