Photo Exhibition at Jardins de Bernadette
Vincent Munier presents 'The Song of the Forests,' a poetic immersion into the heart of wild nature. Explore this stunning photo exhibit while enjoying the serenity of the garden.
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Gérardmer
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Gérardmer
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The main lake gets extremely busy in summer; visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
- Mountain weather changes rapidly-always pack a warm layer, even if it's sunny in the valley.
- During the winter ski season, use the free 'Navette des Neiges' shuttle to reach the La Mauselaine ski resort.
- If you plan to hike, buy a detailed trail map at the tourist office, as some forest paths are poorly marked.
🍽 Food
🍽
Tarte aux Brimbelles
A classic wild blueberry tart. Order it at any traditional mountain inn (ferme-auberge).
🍽
Munster Cheese
The iconic strong cheese of the Vosges. Look for it melted over potatoes (tartiflette au munster) in town center restaurants.
🍽
Fumé Vosgien
Smoked pork meats. Buy them fresh from artisanal butchers near the main square.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Vosges Linens
Gérardmer is the capital of French household linen. Visit the factory outlets of famous local textile brands.
🛍
Wooden Handicrafts
Look for small artisan shops along the main street selling traditional carved wooden toys and kitchenware.
🛍
Fir Tree Honey
Buy locally produced 'Miel de Sapin' at the town market, known for its unique dark color and rich taste.
🧘
Lac de Retournemer
A smaller, wilder, and much quieter glacial lake just a short drive from the main town.
🧘
Cascade de la Bourrique
A beautiful and peaceful waterfall located deep in the forest, accessible via a refreshing hiking trail.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
10
Weekly Market in Gérardmer
Explore the traditional weekly market of Gérardmer. You will find fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, clothing, and various local products in a vibrant atmosphere.
Sunday Market in La Bresse
Every Sunday morning, discover the market of La Bresse at Place du Champtel. Find local products, regional specialties, and fresh food from the heart of the mountains.
Sculpture Festival 2026
As part of the sculpture festival, the Maison de La Bresse honors two female artists. Sylvie Koechlin showcases her virtuosity in carving various types of stone into small and large works.
Engraving Exhibition
Exhibition of engravings by M.A. Castaigne (wood grouse) and N. Sizaire (bovids), on display in the restaurant hall.
World Play Day
Celebrate the 26th edition of World Play Day. Enjoy a variety of activities and games for the whole family to play together.
Fa So'lac Festival
A multicultural festival held on and around the Gérardmer lake, featuring diverse cultural activities and performances.
Manu Lanvin and the Devil Blues
Experience powerful blues energy and endless guitar riffs with Manu Lanvin and his top-tier musicians during this exceptional concert.
Cultivate Our Passions - Market & Concerts
In the heart of Rochesson village, enjoy a family Sunday with a producer market, live shows, and concerts. Celebrate Mother's Day with local crafts and snacks.
Dance Performance: The Dream Factory
Dance students of Aude, Aurore, and Luna invite you to a unique creation blending energy and modernity. Discover the captivating shows including "The Dream Factory."
Gérardmer, frequently hailed as the 'Pearl of the Vosges', is a quintessential mountain town located in the Grand Est region. It has the largest natural lake in the Vosges Mountains, which serves as a focal point for both recreational activities and the town's microclimate. The town holds a unique place in French history as the birthplace of the nation's first tourism office in 1875, marking its long-standing appeal to visitors. Beyond tourism, Gérardmer is world-renowned for its textile heritage, specifically 'le linge de Gérardmer', which represents the pinnacle of French craftsmanship in home linens. Geographically, the area is characterized by steep slopes and dense pine forests, providing a striking backdrop for the La Mauselaine ski resort. Culturally, the town is famous for the biennial Daffodil Festival, where millions of wild daffodils decorate the streets, and for its role as a host of prestigious film festivals. Despite significant damage during World War II, the town was resiliently rebuilt, evolving into a sophisticated year-round destination that balances ecological preservation with economic vitality.
- Location: Grand Est, France
- Top sights: Lake Gérardmer · Mérelle Tower · La Mauselaine Ski Resort
- Nearby: Remiremont (22 km)
- Population: ~8.769
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 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 13 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 4 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 78 | 63 | 69 | 60 | 94 | 83 | 78 | 85 | 67 | 84 | 78 | 90 |
Live webcam – Gérardmer
See what it looks like near Gérardmer right now.
Gerardmer: Vue sur le lac de · 1.5 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Facts
- The Lake of Gérardmer covers 115 hectares
- The highest point in the municipality is 1,137 meters
- Home to France's first tourism office, founded in 1875
- La Mauselaine ski area features 21 distinct runs
- Founded in the 11th century by Duke Gerard of Lorraine
- World leader in high-end household linen production
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→15:405.2 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Morning starts at the heart of Gérardmer with a visit to the striking St-Barthélemy Church before a relaxing stroll down to the pristine glacial lake. Midday is spent exploring the lively lakeside promenade and enjoying the entertainment near the town's charming Casino. In the afternoon, unwind completely at a local wellness center to soothe your muscles. The evening brings a rewarding hike up to Mérelle Tower, offering an unforgettable sunset view.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Step inside this striking neo-Gothic church with its impressive organ, and take a moment to admire the stained glass windows best seen in the morning light.
🚶 10'0.36 km
📍
10:10 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
Walk along the pristine shores of this glacial lake, known as the Pearl of the Vosges, and rent a pedal boat near the promenade for a unique perspective on the water.
🚶 25'1.11 km
📍
11:35 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
Enjoy a mix of gaming and entertainment at this lakeside casino, but remember to bring a valid ID if you plan to access the slot machines or table games.
🚶 25'1.12 km
📍
12:45 · 45'
Espace Bien-Être
Unwind in this modern wellness center offering thermal pools and saunas, and be sure to book your massage treatment in advance to secure a spot.
🚶 55'2.62 km
📍
14:25 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Climb the wooden spiral staircase of this observatory tower for a sweeping panoramic view of the lake, but wear sturdy shoes for the steep forest hike up.
09:00→15:405.2 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Start your wet morning at the beautiful Saint-Barthélemy Church, offering a dry sanctuary. Stroll by the misty Lake Gérardmer before warming up at the Casino. In the afternoon, relax indoors at Espace Bien-Être, escaping the rain entirely. Conclude your day with a cautious hike to the Mérelle Tower, as trails will be slippery.
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⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Admire the beautiful stained glass from inside, which provides a first-rate dry shelter and a peaceful atmosphere to start your wet morning out of the rain.
🚶 10'0.36 km
📍
10:10 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
The thick mist over the water creates a moody atmosphere; keep a sturdy umbrella handy and strictly stay on paved paths to avoid muddy areas.
🚶 25'1.11 km
📍
11:35 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
A fantastic indoor escape; spend some time playing games or enjoying a warm, comforting drink while the heavy rain pours down outside.
🚶 25'1.12 km
📍
12:45 · 45'
Espace Bien-Être
Relax fully in the heated indoor pools and saunas, a great activity that will make you completely forget about the bad, wet weather outside.
🚶 55'2.62 km
📍
14:25 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
The wooden steps and forest trails become extremely slippery when wet; wear sturdy waterproof boots with good grip and walk with extra caution.
09:00→15:405.2 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Kick off your crisp winter morning at the historic Saint-Barthélemy Church. Enjoy the frost-covered shores of Lake Gérardmer before seeking warmth inside the Casino. Spend a cozy afternoon at Espace Bien-Être. Try to reach the Mérelle Tower before the early 17:00 sunset, packing extra warm layers for the chilly breeze.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Step inside the heated nave to quickly warm up and fully appreciate the historic architecture away from the biting, frosty morning cold.
🚶 10'0.36 km
📍
10:10 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
The frost-covered edges look memorable, but ensure you dress in heavy, windproof layers as the breeze blowing across the lake is freezing.
🚶 25'1.11 km
📍
11:35 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
Escape the biting winter chill in this well-heated, lively venue, making it the excellent spot for a cozy and highly entertaining indoor break.
🚶 25'1.12 km
📍
12:45 · 45'
Espace Bien-Être
On a freezing winter day, there is absolutely nothing better than unwinding deeply in a steaming hot thermal bath and a soothing sauna.
🚶 55'2.62 km
📍
14:25 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Aim to arrive well before the early 17:00 sunset to safely enjoy the snowy panoramic views from the top; bring thermal gloves for the climb.
09:00→15:429.4 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Your cycling adventure begins centrally at the historic St-Barthélemy Church before gliding down to the famous Lake Gérardmer for a peaceful morning ride. Midday brings you past the energetic Casino and directly into the forest canopy for thrills at the Acro-Sphère park. The afternoon pedals you further up into the woods to the spectacular Mérelle Tower for high vantage points. Evening wraps up with a relaxing descent to the Espace Bien-Être.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Step inside this striking neo-Gothic church with its impressive organ, and take a moment to admire the stained glass windows best seen in the morning light.
🚲 5'0.36 km
📍
10:05 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
Walk along the pristine shores of this glacial lake, known as the Pearl of the Vosges, and rent a pedal boat near the promenade for a unique perspective on the water.
🚲 10'1.11 km
📍
11:15 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
Enjoy a mix of gaming and entertainment at this lakeside casino, but remember to bring a valid ID if you plan to access the slot machines or table games.
🚲 26'3.83 km
📍
12:26 · 45'
Acro-Sphère
Challenge yourself on these elevated treetop adventure courses set within a former granite quarry, and tackle the zip lines early to avoid long afternoon queues.
🚲 12'1.52 km
📍
13:23 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Climb the wooden spiral staircase of this observatory tower for a sweeping panoramic view of the lake, but wear sturdy shoes for the steep forest hike up.
🚲 19'2.62 km
📍
14:27 · 45'
Espace Bien-Être
Unwind in this modern wellness center offering thermal pools and saunas, and be sure to book your massage treatment in advance to secure a spot.
09:00→15:429.4 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Start pedaling in the rain towards the sheltering Saint-Barthélemy Church. Ride cautiously along the misty Lake Gérardmer and dry off at the Casino. In the afternoon, tackle Acro-Sphère with good grip gloves, and carefully cycle up to the Mérelle Tower on slippery trails. End your wet day at Espace Bien-Être.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Park your bike and seek immediate shelter from the rain inside the beautiful walls, a great place to dry off and review your wet route.
🚲 5'0.36 km
📍
10:05 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
Cycle very slowly along the wet lakeside paths; the moisture makes turning extremely slick, though the morning mist gives great photos.
🚲 10'1.11 km
📍
11:15 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
Lock your bike nearby, step inside to warm up your soaking wet jackets, and enjoy a hot chocolate while resting from the heavy rain.
🚲 26'3.83 km
📍
12:26 · 45'
Acro-Sphère
Open despite the rain, but climbing demands robust, highly grippy gloves because the wet metal cables and wooden platforms get very slick.
🚲 12'1.52 km
📍
13:23 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Dismount and push your bike on the steepest, wettest forest sections, as the deep mud makes safe uphill cycling virtually impossible.
🚲 19'2.62 km
📍
14:27 · 45'
Espace Bien-Être
After a heavily wet cycling tour across the city, the warm saunas and thermal pools here are the ultimate way to relax your freezing muscles.
09:00→15:429.4 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Begin your frosty ride at the Saint-Barthélemy Church. Pedal past the icy Lake Gérardmer, taking a break to warm up at the Casino. In the afternoon, enjoy a chilly session at Acro-Sphère and ride up to Mérelle Tower before the sun sets around 17:00. Thaw out completely at Espace Bien-Être.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Ensure your bike tires are winter-ready with good tread, and use the heated interior of the church to brace yourself for the freezing headwinds.
🚲 5'0.36 km
📍
10:05 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
The icy blast off the lake strictly requires thermal gloves and a thick scarf under your helmet; carefully watch for frozen puddles as you ride.
🚲 10'1.11 km
📍
11:15 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
A lifesaver stop to fully warm your freezing hands; securely lock your bike outside and soak up the highly heated, elegant interior ambiance.
🚲 26'3.83 km
📍
12:26 · 45'
Acro-Sphère
A very chilly winter adventure; wear highly breathable yet extremely warm base layers under your harness to stay agile while climbing.
🚲 12'1.52 km
📍
13:23 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Plan your cycle route to descend long before the 17:00 sunset, as freezing forest trails become extremely dangerous without natural light.
🚲 19'2.62 km
📍
14:27 · 45'
Espace Bien-Être
The absolute best finale to a freezing cycling day; the profound sauna heat is essential to release severe muscle tension from winter pedaling.
09:00→16:5520 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 26€ · Transport 4€
Drive out early to the impressive St-Barthélemy Church and continue straight to the cascading Saut des Cuves waterfall to beat the morning crowds. Midday centers around the breathtaking Lake Gérardmer before heading up the winding roads to La Mauselaine Ski Resort for alpine views. In the afternoon, challenge the family at Acro-Sphère and then hike briefly to Mérelle Tower for a sprawling vista. The evening concludes gracefully back in town at the Casino for dinner and games.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Step inside this striking neo-Gothic church with its impressive organ, and take a moment to admire the stained glass windows best seen in the morning light.
🚗 15'3.56 km
📍
10:15 · 60'
Saut des Cuves Waterfall
Marvel at the cascading waters of this easy on the eye waterfall shaped by glacial activity, and visit after a recent rainfall when the water volume is most spectacular.
🚗 14'3.22 km
📍
11:29 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
Walk along the pristine shores of this glacial lake, known as the Pearl of the Vosges, and rent a pedal boat near the promenade for a unique perspective on the water.
🚗 9'1.74 km
📍
12:38 · 45'
La Mauselaine Ski Resort
Take in the alpine atmosphere at this popular ski resort offering excellent trails in winter and mountain biking in summer, and grab a coffee at the panoramic terrace.
🚗 24'6.27 km
📍
13:47 · 45'
Acro-Sphère
Challenge yourself on these elevated treetop adventure courses set within a former granite quarry, and tackle the zip lines early to avoid long afternoon queues.
🚗 8'1.52 km
📍
14:40 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Climb the wooden spiral staircase of this observatory tower for a panoramic panoramic view of the lake, but wear sturdy shoes for the steep forest hike up.
🚗 15'3.67 km
📍
15:40 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
Enjoy a mix of gaming and entertainment at this lakeside casino, but remember to bring a valid ID if you plan to access the slot machines or table games.
09:00→16:5520 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 26€ · Transport 4€
Drive through the rain to the peaceful Saint-Barthélemy Church. Watch the powerful Saut des Cuves Waterfall, then admire the misty Lake Gérardmer from your car. Visit La Mauselaine, followed by a wet Acro-Sphère experience. Drive carefully to Mérelle Tower on slick roads, and end the evening indoors at the Casino.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Park your car closely and quickly rush inside beneath an umbrella to admire the majestic stone architecture in completely dry comfort.
🚗 15'3.56 km
📍
10:15 · 60'
Saut des Cuves Waterfall
The heavy rainfall makes the water flow incredibly powerful to watch; however, watch your step very carefully on the muddy viewing platforms.
🚗 14'3.22 km
📍
11:29 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
Take full advantage of your car by parking closely on the banks to enjoy the moody, misty lake views completely dry through your windows.
🚗 9'1.74 km
📍
12:38 · 45'
La Mauselaine Ski Resort
If outdoor sports are paused due to heavy rain, simply retreat to the cozy chalet restaurant and comfortably wait for the wet conditions to clear.
🚗 24'6.27 km
📍
13:47 · 45'
Acro-Sphère
Drive straight up to the entrance; climbing in the rain is quite thrilling but absolutely requires non-slip, water-resistant heavy-duty gloves.
🚗 8'1.52 km
📍
14:40 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Drive extremely slowly on the narrow winding road up to the parking spot, as wet fallen leaves make the slick asphalt treacherous for cars.
🚗 15'3.67 km
📍
15:40 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
The absolute excellent dry finale to your rainy road trip; utilize the close parking and spend a luxurious, highly entertaining evening indoors.
09:00→16:5520 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 26–35 €Entries 26€ · Transport 4€
Start your winter drive at the Saint-Barthélemy Church. Marvel at the frozen Saut des Cuves Waterfall and the icy shores of Lake Gérardmer. Spend the afternoon skiing at La Mauselaine, then visit Acro-Sphère. Reach Mérelle Tower before the early 17:00 sunset, and finish the evening in the warm, lively Casino.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Barthélemy Church
Take full advantage of your car's heater on the short drive there, then step out briefly to admire the striking winter architecture of the church.
🚗 15'3.56 km
📍
10:15 · 60'
Saut des Cuves Waterfall
Spectacular, massive ice formations often completely surround the falls in winter; however, be highly cautious of the icy, treacherous footpaths.
🚗 14'3.22 km
📍
11:29 · 60'
Lake Gérardmer
Drive right up to the water's edge to safely view the breathtakingly frozen lake without exposing yourself to the brutally biting winter winds.
🚗 9'1.74 km
📍
12:38 · 45'
La Mauselaine Ski Resort
The absolute prime time for winter sports! Park conveniently on-site, rent any needed equipment, and thoroughly enjoy the beautifully groomed snowy slopes.
🚗 24'6.27 km
📍
13:47 · 45'
Acro-Sphère
A freezing but highly rewarding challenge; your car trunk serves as the first-rate basecamp to layer up in thick winter sports gear before climbing.
🚗 8'1.52 km
📍
14:40 · 45'
Mérelle Tower
Winter tires are strictly mandatory for the steep drive up; ensure you safely leave the icy parking area well before complete darkness hits at 17:00.
🚗 15'3.67 km
📍
15:40 · 45'
Casino of Gérardmer
A highly elegant and completely warm conclusion to your winter driving day; leave the freezing car outside and indulge in the heated casino luxury.
Sights in the town Gérardmer (8)
Frequently asked questions
What is the main attraction of Gérardmer?
The Lac de Gérardmer, the largest natural lake in the Vosges, excellent for swimming, sailing, and hiking.
Can you ski here in winter?
Yes, the La Mauselaine ski resort provides slopes for all levels and a great view of the lake.
When does the Daffodil Festival take place?
The Fête des Jonquilles takes place every two years in April, attracting thousands with its floral floats.
Which cheese should you try?
Géromé (or Munster-Géromé) is a strong soft cheese produced directly in this region.
What is the altitude of the town?
The town is situated at an altitude of about 670 meters, surrounded by pine forests and Vosges peaks.
Gérardmer: where is it located?
Gérardmer is located in Grand Est, France.
Gérardmer: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lake Gérardmer, Mérelle Tower, La Mauselaine Ski Resort.
Gérardmer: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gérardmer: why is it worth visiting?
Gérardmer, frequently hailed as the 'Pearl of the Vosges', is a quintessential mountain town located in the Grand Est region.
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