Things to do in Vosges around camping Les Trexons
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Out and About in the Vosges
What is there to discover in and around our campsite?Les Trexons is located just outside the village of Gerbépal, at the edge of the High Vosges, at an altitude of about 675 meters. The surrounding area is mountainous and made up of forests, streams, and farmland. From the campsite, you can walk straight into the woods. Nearby, you’ll find a few small (organic) farms. Just 8 km away lies the small town of Gérardmer, once known as a lakeside resort thanks to its large lake. The region is perfect for an active holiday and for exploring nature.
For many travelers, the Vosges is a region they simply pass through on the way south. But as a holiday destination, it is highly appreciated for its clean air, fairytale forests, streams, and stunning lakes and wetlands. The Vosges is both a department in northeastern France (part of Lorraine) and the name of the surrounding mountain range and natural area. The Vosges are divided into the High and Low Vosges, and the region borders Alsace. Both areas have a rich history, with many traces of World War I.
But there’s much more to see, taste, and experience. We hope you enjoy your time here!
Into nature
The most beautiful hikes in the VosgesFrom rolling to rugged, from valley to peak, from rock to forest, the Vosges is a
varied nature reserve with rich flora and fauna. Nature lovers can discover the
area from Les Trexons on foot, by bike or by car.
Hiking in the Vosges
The Club Vosgien maintains hiking trails and sets out routes. You can go in
all directions—higher into the mountains or deeper into the forests. With
an IGN map, Komoot, or another app, you have the opportunity to plan
your own routes, but there are also many hiking guides that will lead you
through this beautiful natural area. Be sure to wear good shoes and
always bring enough food and water.
Cycling in general
Your city bike won’t be very useful here, but touring bikes or mountain bikes are much more suited. There are many quiet, paved roads, or forest paths that treat you to mysterious forests and breathtaking views. Col de la Schlucht is a well-known destination for many road cyclists.
If you prefer rolling hills rather than steep climbs, cycling toward Corcieux, Grange sur Vologne, or Bruyère is beautiful. Keep in mind that the weather in the mountains can change quickly, and you’ll be sharing the roads with cars.
Champ des Roches
About ten minutes' drive from the campsite is Champ des Roches, a kind of river, but made of large stones. It’s 800 meters long and 8 meters deep.
A reminder of the Ice Age and a place that sparks the imagination.
You can take a small but beautiful circular walk here.
Sentier des Roches
This is one of the most famous hiking routes in the Vosges, and for good reason. Starting from Col de la Schlucht, you’ll walk along narrow paths, through ravines, with stunning views, through a small cave, over footbridges, and eventually back via the Hohneck.
It’s also suitable for children from about 7 years old.
Good shoes are a must, and never go in bad weather!
The Lakes
The Vosges has several beautiful mountain lakes at different altitudes. Worth exploring on a circular walk are definitely Lac Lispach (a peat bog lake), Lac Blanc, Lac des Truits, Lac Vert, Lac Longemer, Lac Blanchemer, and Lac de Gérardmer.
In the last three, swimming is allowed (but not for
dogs).
Waterfalls
The Mountains
The Vosges is also the name of the mountain range that starts at the border with Switzerland and extends northward, including the Hohneck, Grande et Petite Ballon, and Ballon d’Alsace, as well as several beautiful mountain passes.
It’s ideal for hiking, road cycling, or exploring by car (Route des Crêtes: originally built to transport ammunition during the war, now a beautiful route for exploring the Vosges).
Flora
Fauna
In the Vosges, and even around the campsite, you can encounter many animals (if you’re quiet and lucky). Large and small wildlife, such as wild boars, deer, roe deer, badgers, martens, hares, and we’ve even spotted a racoon once.
Higher up, especially at sunrise, you can find chamois. It’s magical; sometimes they come very close. Lynx and wolves also live in the area, but the chance of encountering them is extremely small. Perhaps their tracks?
In the mountains, you can also find marmots.
Birdwatchers will also be in luck. The red kite is often seen, kingfishers hunt by our pond and stream, and the fieldfares chase after the magpies.
Femke's Hiking Guide
Action
For the adrenaline junkies among usIf you like excitement and adventure, then you've come to the right place! Visit
one of the adventure (climbing) parks, or take your climbing equipment into the
mountains. Off the slopes Mountain biking, kayaking or SUPing on the lakes,
racing bikes on the Route des Crêtes or even paragliding? It's all possible.
Adventure Parks
Several adventure parks can be visited in the area, such as Acrosphere in
Gérardmer, Bol d’Air near La Bresse, and Spinaparc in Épinal. Climbing
between trees, zip-lining, and rock climbing—it's all possible! A minimum
height of 1.30 meters is often required.
Barefoot Trails
At Lac Blanc (ski station) and Acrosphere in Gérardmer, you can walk along a barefoot trail. Your sense of touch is stimulated by the various surfaces under your feet. A fun experience for young children but also for adults!
At Lac Blanc, you can also enjoy a 2 km playful trail (sentier ludique), featuring various sculptures and interactive challenges along the way.
Amusement Parks & Playgrounds
A fun day at an amusement park is definitely possible!
- Fraispertuis offers a Wild West theme and is great for all ages.
- Parc Le Petit Prince, inspired by The Little Prince, is perfect for</
younger children, with attractions, playgrounds, and shows. - Wildoo, near La Bresse, is a play park located in the mountains,
ideal for families.
In Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, there’s a large outdoor playground near the
city center.
If the weather isn’t great, you can visit the Zim indoor play center or
the Vosges trampoline park in Épinal.
In Gerbépal, behind the school and fire station, there is a play area for
young children and a basketball/multi-sports field for older kids.
In Corcieux, next to the college, there is a new cross-track with a
ramp, perfect for BMX and skaters.
Summer Tobogganing
Try summer sledding! Great tracks are available at Lac Blanc, Col de
la Schlucht, and La Bresse. It’s even possible to ride with a young child
in the same sled.
Mountain Biking (MTB)
While you can explore beautiful mountain biking trails directly from the
campsite, you can also challenge yourself on the ski slopes in
summer. Check out various ski resorts like La Bresse for rental options
and guided adventures.
Bouldering & Rock Climbing
The region offers multiple natural climbing spots, including bouldering (e.g., behind Bruyères) and rock climbing (Épinal, Hohneck, Kruth). Find climbing locations here: https://www.visit.alsace/massif-des-vosges/activites-loisirs/escalade/
Prefer indoor climbing? Try Hop ’n Bloc in Remiremont or the sports center in Gérardmer.
Water Activities
Fishing
Outside the campsite—where you can fish for carp and trout (bring your
own equipment)—there are several lakes and rivers where fishing is
permitted. A license is always required, even on the campsite.
Great fishing spots include:
- Lac Lispach (near La Bresse via Xonrupt)
- Le Paradis des Pêcheurs, just past Gérardmer
Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Lac Gérardmer, Lac Longemer, Lac des Corbeaux, and Lac Blanchemer. The last two, hidden deep in the forest, are generally less crowded.
Dogs are not allowed in the water.
In Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, you’ll find the indoor swimming pool Aqua Nova America, and in Gérardmer, a new swimming pool is available at the sports center.
Horseback Riding
Horse lovers can enjoy scenic horseback rides through the forests and
mountains of the Vosges.
- Equi’val Manège in Le Tholy
- Le Clos Yakari in Grange Aumontzey, where horse well-being is a
priority
Several other stables in the region offer workshops and guided rides
for both beginners and experienced riders.
Paintball, Laser Tag, Bowling, VR & Escape Rooms
Whether it's rainy or you’re just in the mood for action, these activities can be found in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, Gérardmer, Épinal, and Remiremont.
For a unique experience, try an escape game inside the Tellure silver mine!
Cities and Culture
The region suffered greatly during the wars. There is a lot to be found about this.
Small museums nearby, as well as mines, sawmills and castles. Beautiful towns in
Alsace nearby. As large cities, Nancy and Colmar are well worth a visit.
Flea Markets and Antique Fairs
It’s always fun to browse through old treasures at a flea market or
antique fair. In summer, they are frequent, and you can find
announcements along the roadside or on brocabrac.fr. Permanent flea
markets can be found in Tendon and Xonrupt (along the road to Lac
Longemer). Second-hand shops are also becoming more common, and
night markets are worth checking out!
Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg
Beautifully restored, this castle is one of the most impressive in the
region. During the holidays, you may encounter knights and ladies in
costume, but even without them, there is so much to see and learn.
And the view is breathtaking!
Swamills
Woodworking is a major industry in the Vosges. In the summer, you can
witness traditional logging demonstrations, where logs were once
transported down the mountains by hand. Some historic sawmills, still
powered by water, offer tours showing the full process—from tree to
wooden shoes!
Churches and Abbeys
After the Celtic era and the Roman departure, most inhabitants
converted to Roman Catholicism. As early as the 7th century, abbeys
were founded, such as:
- Moyenmoutier Abbey
- Senones Abbey
Other religious sites worth visiting:
- The Basilica of Épinal (built in the 11th century)
- The Notre-Dame-du-Haut Chapel in Ronchamp, designed by Le
Corbusier in the 20th century - Autrey Abbey, best visited during its flower festival in May and September
Most of these churches and abbeys are beautifully nestled in the surrounding nature.
Local festivals
During the summer months, numerous festivals take place in the
region, including:
- Daffodil Festival (Fête des Jonquilles) in April (every two
years), featuring floats and floral decorations - Bastille Day on July 14, celebrating the French Revolution with
fireworks (not always on the exact day in every town) - The Bread Festival in Tendon
- The Blacksmith Festival in Corcieux
Mines
The Vosges were known for silver and copper mining, especially around
Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines, as its name suggests. The Tellure silver
mine and the copper mines of Le Thillot are fascinating places to visit.
Some mines offer night tours in summer, focusing on themes like bats.
Museums
The region has a wide variety of museums, including war museums (see
“War Memorials”) as well as private collections displaying historical
military items and uniforms.
Art museums include:
- MUDAAC in Épinal
- Pierre Noël Museum in Saint-Dié
- Musée de l’Image in Épinal
Other notable museums:
- A train museum in Saint-Dié (small but interesting)
- The National Automobile Museum in Mulhouse
- Historic sawmills, clog-making workshops, and guild museums
If you are interested in geology, don’t miss Terra Genesis in Syndicat.
War Memorials
World War I is still widely commemorated here. The battles between
France and Germany over this region left deep marks on the people,
villages, and landscapes. World War II is also not forgotten. War
memorials can be found in many forms and locations. Notable sites
include:
- The museum in Schirmeck and the nearby concentration camp
Natzweiler-Struthof - Mass graves near Lac Blanc
- Hartmannswillerkopf, between Colmar and Mulhouse
Every village, no matter how small, has at least one memorial for the
fallen. Near Orbey, you’ll find the Musée Mémorial du Linge.
Celts and Romans
Originally, the Vosges were home to Celtic paganism. Traces of Celtic
and Roman presence can still be found in the region. Notable sites
include:
- The Celtic Camp of La Bure, above Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, a
magical place - The impressive amphitheater and other Roman ruins in
Grand (about a 2-hour drive) - A Roman walking path (a one-hour hike) near Raon-sur-Plaine
- The Pierre Noël Museum in Saint-Dié, which contains extensive information on the Celts and Romans<
- The Temple of Donon, an easy and rewarding hike
Cities
Many cities in the Vosges suffered greatly during the war. Gérardmer,
Épinal, and Saint-Dié-des-Vosges are examples of this. However, these
towns are still great places to visit. Beautiful cities a bit farther away
include Colmar, Strasbourg, and Nancy. The smaller towns in Alsace,
such as Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim, are highly
recommended. They are just as charming but on a smaller scale.
Gardens and Parks
From monastery garden to height garden, from Monkey Mountain to bird show.
There are several gardens and zoos in the area. But Fraispertuis City amusement
park and Europa Park are also easy to visit from Les Trexons.
Berchigrange Garden
Monkey Mountain
Goat Farm
Haut Chitelet Alpine Garden
The Llama Mountain
Naturoparc
Parc de Wesserling
Plant Festival and Abbey Garden in Autrey
Bird of Prey Show at Kintzheim Ruins
Dining
Culinair FranceThe Vogesian cuisine is characterized by potatoes and meats. But fortunately the
offer is very diverse with influences from Alsace and elsewhere, flanked by a
good glass of beer or wine. There are many restaurants in the immediate area.
Here they say: you live to eat! Bon appétit!
The Bread Festival in Tendon
In mid-August, you can visit the Bread Festival in Tendon, where artisan bakers showcase their skills and offer tastings. The event is accompanied by traditional music and dance.
Tip: Skip breakfast and enjoy the festival—then take a digestive walk to the Tendon Waterfalls!
Breweries
Just like elsewhere, small craft breweries are popping up in the Vosges.
Some have grown into successful businesses and are worth a visit:
- La Gérômoise: Includes a restaurant, great for kids.
- La Fouillotte (Epinal): Also available at the campsite.
- L’Opercule: Uses honey from their own beehives for refermentation (also sold at the campsite).
Great Restaurants
Of course, we’ve only explored a fraction of the local dining scene, and
new restaurants are always opening while others close. Here are some
recommendations (and we’re always open to new tips!):
- Cuisine des Arrentes: Simple, local cuisine with friendly service.
Lunch tip: four-course daily menu for around €15. - Hors du Temps (Gérardmer): Elegant presentation and delicious food, with a higher price tag.
- San Remo (Gérardmer): Italian restaurant, great for families. Something for everyone—save room for dessert!
- La Refuge (Gérardmer towards La Bresse): Wide selection, tasty dishes.
- Au pied du Hohneck (or another mountain auberge): Rustic wooden interior, beautiful views, and delicious food after an active day in the mountains.
- Au Grain de Sel & La Commerce (Corcieux): Family-friendly with simple, tasty dishes.
- La Chariolle (Taintrux): Traditional French farmhouse-style auberge. Great food but only French-speaking. The scenic route to get there is worth it!
Local Products and Cheese
As in the rest of France, cheese is a staple in the Vosges! A must-try is Munster cheese. If you’re not a fan of strong-smelling cheeses, the fresh Munster might be a better choice—milder and sometimes flavored with caraway seeds.
The region is also known for its hearty meat dishes, such as:
- Sauerkraut, served with various sausages and bacon.
- Cheese fondue, sometimes served inside a hollowed-out bread loaf.
- Flammekueche (Alsatian tarte flambée).
- Myrtle berry tart.
Don’t forget to try the coffee from Canton Roastery in Granges-sur-
Vologne! You can taste it at the campsite reception or visit their store.
Markets
Almost every town and village hosts at least one weekly market, where
you can buy fresh produce, plants, aprons, mattresses, and many
delicious local goods.
In summer, don’t miss:
- Organic markets on Wednesday afternoons in Xonrupt and
Tendon. - Evening markets, which offer souvenirs, local meats, drinks,
crêpes, waffles, sandwiches, roast chicken, and ice cream.
In Epinal, you can combine the daily market with a visit to the covered
market halls—or even explore the castle ruins and petting zoo.
Farm Tasting Experiences
More and more farms in the Vosges are opening their doors to visitors,
allowing them to see how they work and what they produce. One
recommendation (from 3:00 PM) is the goat farm Le Brabant near La
Bresse, where you can feed and cuddle the goats and taste their
fresh cheeses.
Other farms worth visiting:
- Ferme de Xéfosse, near the Rudlin Waterfall, where you can sample cheeses and cold cuts.
Keep an eye out for Open Farm Days!
Routes des vins Alsace
The campsite is located close to Alsace, a region famous for its wines.
Take a scenic drive or bike ride from north to south (or the other way
around) and visit wineries, wine cellars, and vineyards. This 170-
kilometer route runs along the Vosges Mountains, offering stunning
landscapes in spring, summer, and autumn.
Some of the most famous grape varieties from this region include:
- Riesling
- Pinot Blanc
- Gewurztraminer
- Pinot Gris
- Sylvaner
- Muscat
Find a designated driver or a cozy B&B and enjoy the nectar of
Dionysus! Our house wine, Ruhlmann et Fils, is produced in
Scherwiller, one of the picturesque villages along the route. You’re
welcome to visit their winery, and guided tours can be arranged by
appointment (though not during the grape harvest at the end of
September).
Candy Factories
