To explore the surroundings of the "Bead of the Vosges", discover our selection of the most beautiful hikes around Gérardmer!
Located in the heart of the Vosges, Gérardmer is a commune bordered by a large lake and surrounded by multiple forests. Staying there is taking a big breath of fresh air! The city has been enjoyed for a long time by activity lovers outdoor thanks to his ski resort .
In fact, Gérardmer is first known for winter sports and fantastic cinema, celebrated at an annual international festival. But if Abel Hugo, brother of Victor, nicknamed him the “Bead of the Vosges”, it is above all for his picturesque natural environment.
Indeed, between lakes, pass and forests, the surroundings of Gérardmer are a beautiful setting of nature. To explore these sweet Vosges landscapes, we have concocted a guide of the most beautiful hikes around Gérardmer!
1. The Tour du Lac de Gérardmer
Photo credit: Alltrails
- Duration : about 1h30
- Distance 5.3 km
- Denivelé 86 m
- Difficulty Easy
- See the hiking trail
Here's the most unmissable ride around Gérardmer! Indeed, this small country walk will take you to the discovery of the great lake so characteristic of the city. This one lives over the seasons, sometimes appearing green, sometimes red, or even a mysterious mist veil. You will enjoy this little hike in all seasons!
Accessible to all but not recommended to strollers, the route passes through varied scenes . He will eventually convince you that in Gérardmer, the city and nature live in perfect harmony.
2. The observatory of Mérelle and the lake of Gérardmer
Photo credit: Alltrails
- Duration : about 2h30
- Distance 7.7 km
- Denivelé 296 m
- Difficulty Average
- See the hiking trail
This hike will allow you to discover the lake otherwise . At first, you will start a lake tour along its peaceful waters. But you'll settle for three-quarters of this tower... and then climb up!
A small ascent through the bed of a stream will allow you to reach the Observatory for the . From the top of this watch tower, the view of the lake is unbeatable! By the way, you will discover the Merelle cascade as well as a ferruginous source, before descending on the opposite side.
3. From the lake of Gérardmer to the Sapois pass
Photo credit: Alltrails
- Duration : about 2h15
- Distance 7.1 km
- Denivelé : 321 m
- Difficulty : Difficult
- See the hiking trail
With this very complete hike, you will have an excellent overview of the sites of interest around Gérardmer. You will leave the lake and start climbing to the top of the Mérelle Observatory. You can then enjoy a breathtaking view of the lake From the heights! The most motivated will enjoy it to make a crochet by the Merelle cascade and the ferruginating source.
The loop will then lead you to the Sapois pass , pretty green top culminating at 835 meters. Finally, you will come back by the famous Stunt of the Jump of the Bourrique . This one holds its name from a legend that tells that a donkey threw himself on brigands who tried to attack his master, and died with them in the waterfall.
4. The pass of Sapois and the Saut of Bourrique
Photo credit: Alltrails
- Duration 1h
- Distance 3.1 km
- Denivelé 116 m
- Difficulty Easy
- See the hiking trail
This short and easy hike southwest of Gérardmer is an alternative to the previous route. The little walk will first take you along the river to climb up to the Stunt of the Jump of the Bourrique .
You will then join the Sapois pass and its sweet pastures, before descending along the road and the meadows. This short walk is very accessible, but beware of the passage on the road if children accompany you!
5. The Jump of the Bourrique by the way of Urson
Photo credit: Alltrails
- Duration : about 1h40
- Distance 5.1 km
- Denivelé 174 m
- Difficulty Easy
- See the hiking trail
Like many routes around Gérardmer, this hike is perfect for families. Indeed, it is a rather short and easy loop that some enjoy for the race on foot. You'll be most of the time in the undergrowth. Thus, it is particularly appreciable in grey days, or on the contrary to shelter during the great heats.
Between the majestic conifers, ferns and rocks, you will enjoy a environment full of charm . The Urson Road will make you snake along a vivid stream. Finally, in a point of pride, you can admire the pretty stunt of the Saut de la Bourrique .
6. The loop of the Gourrier fountain path and the Grouvelin Head
Photo credit: Alltrails
- Duration : about 3h20
- Distance 9.5 km
- Denivelé : 347 m
- Difficulty Average
- See the hiking trail
A little longer than previous hikes and a moderate difficulty, this loop starts from La Mauselaine. It will take you to the heart of the ski area and woods, where you will enjoy bucolic landscapes I wish. But above all, you will climb on the highest point of the Vosges, The Grouvelin Head 1 137 metres above sea level. From there, one beautiful view will offer to you.
During the walk, you may be tempted by a gourmet break. To do this, there are two options. First of all, the Grouvelin Inn, with the false airs of mountain chalet and which serves traditional dishes. Then, La Chaume Francis, a ski resort canteen rather friendly.
7. The rock of the Bioquets and the Grouvelin Head
Photo credit: Alltrails
- Duration : about 2h30
- Distance 7.7 km
- Denivelé 293 m
- Difficulty Easy
- See the hiking trail
Here is another walk, a little easier, to discover The Grouvelin Head and its surroundings. In the heart of the ski resort of La Croix Claudé, you will take pleasant trails to the Bioquets rock .
From there you will enjoy a first beautiful panorama on green landscapes . You will then join the Grouvelin Head before returning to your starting point. Both accessible and mountainous, this hike is one of our favourites in the area!
Gérardmer and its surroundings are full of accessible and family routes. These will allow you to explore all facets of the region, from the lake to the mountains, through forests and waterfalls!
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