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Lake Gérardmer
Located in the heart of the Vosges, Lake Gérardmer offers an enchanting setting where nature reigns supreme. This true haven of peace, surrounded by dense forests and rolling mountains, attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking an escape.
Each season transforms the landscape.
In summer, the lake becomes the perfect spot for a pedal boat ride, a kayaking adventure, or a refreshing swim. In winter, the Gérardmer ski resort welcomes skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts.
A visit to Gérardmer wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Cascade de Mérelle, accessible via a short forest walk. For a breathtaking view, climb to the Mérelle Observatory and marvel at the lake’s panorama. Also, take a stroll along the Saut des Cuves, a natural site where the water dances over the rocks.
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Verdun
Verdun, a landmark city in Lorraine, still echoes with the weight of its past. The site of one of the most significant battles of World War I, it is now an essential place of remembrance, blending respect and historical transmission.
A visit to Verdun is incomplete without stopping at the Douaumont Ossuary, the resting place of fallen soldiers. Nearby, the Verdun Memorial vividly recounts the horrors of trench warfare through artifacts, testimonies, and immersive reconstructions. For an even more poignant experience, explore the ruins of the destroyed village of Fleury-devant-Douaumont, frozen in time.
But Verdun is not only about military history. The city center reveals a different side, with its peaceful quays along the Meuse River and historic landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and Porte Chaussée. Take a gourmet break and taste Verdun’s specialty, the famous dragées, crafted here for over six centuries.
You can also visit the city’s underground citadel. Built between 1890 and 1893, its galleries extended up to 7 kilometers by the end of the war and could accommodate up to 2,000 men. This was also where the logistical headquarters were located. A tourist guide from Grand Est will accompany you and provide detailed explanations of the historical events that took place here.
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Kaysersberg
Nestled between vineyards and forests, Kaysersberg exudes timeless charm. Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, this Alsatian town feels like something out of a fairy tale. Its cobbled streets, lined with colorful half-timbered houses, invite you to a journey through time.
The historic center is full of treasures. Don’t miss Sainte-Croix Church, with its remarkable Romanesque portal, and cross the iconic 16th-century fortified bridge over the Weiss River. Climb to the ruins of the imperial castle, where the view over the town’s rooftops and surrounding vineyards is simply breathtaking.
Kaysersberg is also an essential stop on the Alsace Wine Route. Enjoy a glass of Riesling or Gewurztraminer in a traditional wine cellar. During Christmas, its enchanting market bathes the streets in a magical atmosphere.
Authentic and well-preserved, this Alsatian gem is an invitation to discovery. Whether for its heritage, gastronomy, or natural beauty, Kaysersberg promises an unforgettable getaway.
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Strasbourg’s Grande Île
The historic center of Strasbourg was built on an island in the Ill River, a tributary of the Rhine. It is a stunning example of a medieval city, and you can explore it by walking along the riverbanks. The Great island of Strasbourg is home to many architectural marvels: Renaissance-era half-timbered houses, religious sanctuaries (including the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral), and grand residences like the Palais des Rohan.
The city’s commercial heart is where you will find major shops, cafés, and restaurants. This entire part of Strasbourg is best explored on foot, with your eyes lifted to admire the beauty of the well-preserved buildings. Don’t forget to visit La Petite France, the most romantic district in the Alsatian capital. A must-see at the end of the year is the famous Christmas market.
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Vent des Forêts (Forest winds)
In the heart of the Meuse, just 30 kilometers from Verdun, le Vent des Forêts offers a unique experience where art blends with nature. This open-air space, nestled among six Lorraine villages—Fresnes-au-Mont, Nicey-sur-Aire, Dompcevrin, Lahaymeix, Ville-devant-Belrain, and Pierrefitte-sur-Aire—features walking trails punctuated with contemporary installations that surprise and inspire.
Spread across six circuits ranging from 3 to 14 kilometers, this artistic journey showcases over 100 works by artists from around the world. Each creation is made on-site, and its lifespan depends on weather conditions before being replaced by a new piece. Every sculpture, integrated into the landscape, transforms the forest into an open-air museum. Along the paths, artworks emerge between the trees, sparking imagination and emotion.
The trails cater to all levels. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual walker, each journey promises a unique encounter between art and the tranquility of the woods. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, Vent des Forêts invites you to slow down, contemplate, and embrace the unexpected.
Between nature and creativity, this extraordinary place captivates both art lovers and nature enthusiasts. A one-of-a-kind sensory experience awaits you in the forests of Meuse.
