Alsace is full of accessible, free, and family-friendly swimming spots. From the Vosges lakes in the Haut-Rhin to the developed bodies of water in the Bas-Rhin, there are plenty of options for cooling off. This practical guide lists the best outdoor swimming spots, highlighting the criteria that really matter: lifeguard supervision, water quality, free admission, and accessibility. For a waterfront getaway in the Vosges region of Alsace, a campground with a pool in Alsace is the perfect base.
Table of Contents
The Essentials in 30 Seconds
- This guide covers the main bodies of water in the two Alsatian departments: Bas-Rhin (67) and Haut-Rhin (68), including monitoring criteria, water quality, and whether each spot is free to use.
- Each spot listing indicates whether swimming is supervised, whether dogs are allowed, and whether admission is free—the three criteria most sought after by families.
- The swimming season runs from June through September, with the busiest times in July and August at the best-equipped spots.
- Les Chalets de la Wormsa, a 4-star resort in Metzeral (Haut-Rhin), features a 350 m² heated indoor pool that is open year-round—the perfect alternative when the weather is unpredictable.
The Best Swimming Spots in Alsace: Our Selection by Department
Overview, Practical Criteria
Alsace offers two very distinct types of swimming areas. In the north and in the Rhine Valley, the gravel pits and developed bodies of water in the Bas-Rhin department offer a full range of amenities and are often supervised. In the Haut-Rhin department, the lakes of the Vosges provide an incomparable mountain setting, though the water is sometimes cooler.
Water quality is monitored each season by the ARS Grand Est. The official ratings (excellent, good, adequate, inadequate) are published on baignades.sante.gouv.fr. Be sure to check them before you go, as the results may vary from year to year.
| Spot | Department | Type | Supervised Swimming | Free | Dogs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baggersee Lake | 67 | Body of water | Yes (summer) | Yes | No |
| Plage des Mouettes, Lauterbourg | 67 | Sandy beach | Yes | Yes | Dedicated Areas |
| Ballastière, Bischheim | 67 | Gravel Pit | No | Yes | Find out more |
| Gambsheim Lake | 67 | Body of water | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fleckenstein Pond, Lembach | 67 | Natural pond | No | Yes | Yes |
| Reiningue Lake | 68 | Body of water | Yes (summer) | Paid | No |
| Colmar-Houssen Water Sports Center | 68 | Water Sports Center | Partial | Paid | No |
| Lake Kruth-Wildenstein | 68 | Mountain Lake | No | Yes | Find out more |
| Lake Lauch, Mittlach | 68 | Lake in the Vosges | No | Yes | Yes |
| Black Lake | 68 | High-altitude lake | No | Yes | Yes |
Here are the best spots by department, along with practical information to help you plan your day at the beach in Alsace.
Where to Swim in the Bas-Rhin (67): The Must-See Spots
Accessible lakes, gravel pits, and beaches
The Bas-Rhin department is home to several developed bodies of water that are accessible from Strasbourg and the major cities in northern Alsace. Most of them are free to visit and well-served by public transportation.
Baggersee Lake, Illkirch-Graffenstaden
Baggersee is the most popular body of water in the Strasbourg metropolitan area. Accessible by tram from downtown (Line D, Baggersee stop), it welcomes thousands of swimmers every summer. Lifeguards are on duty in July and August. Admission is free. Dogs are not allowed in the marked swimming area.
Plage des Mouettes, Lauterbourg
The only true sandy beach in the Bas-Rhin department, Plage des Mouettes stands out for its comprehensive amenities: seasonal lifeguard service, changing rooms, showers, and a picnic area. Ideal for families with young children. Free admission. Designated areas allow you to bring your dog outside of lifeguard hours.
La Ballastière, Bischheim
This former gravel pit, which has been converted into a swimming area, is accessible by public transportation from Strasbourg. Swimming is unsupervised, and admission is free. The natural setting is popular with regulars, and the depth varies by area. This area is intended only for strong adult swimmers.
Huttenheim Lake and Benfeld Pond
Two quiet spots in central Alsace that are little known to tourists. Unsupervised swimming, free access, and a rural setting. Perfect for a peaceful family swim away from the July crowds.
Gambsheim Lake
Located north of Strasbourg, this body of water is one of the few free spots in the Bas-Rhin where dogs are allowed. Swimming is unsupervised. There is a picnic area on the banks.
Fleckenstein Pond, Lembach
Located in Northern Alsace, this natural pond offers a wooded, wilderness setting. Swimming is unsupervised; access is free; dogs are allowed. Not recommended for very young children due to the lack of supervision and the aquatic vegetation.
Which lake in the Bas-Rhin is the best for swimming?
Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg is the most well-rounded spot in the Bas-Rhin for families: a sandy beach, supervised swimming, changing rooms, showers, and free admission. For competitive swimmers or those who enjoy natural settings, Lake Baggersee in Illkirch-Graffenstaden offers a larger body of water, accessible by tram, with water quality rated as good to excellent depending on the year.
The choice depends on your situation. If you have young children, Plage des Mouettes is the obvious choice because of its safety and amenities. For a spontaneous afternoon trip from Strasbourg without a car, Baggersee is unbeatable. Those seeking peace and quiet will prefer Fleckenstein Pond in Lembach, which is more natural and less crowded.
Where to Swim in the Haut-Rhin (68): Mountain Lakes and Other Bodies of Water
The Vosges Mountains, clear water, water sports
The Haut-Rhin offers a wide range of outdoor swimming spots, from developed bodies of water on the plains to high-altitude lakes in the Vosges. It is also the department where our estate is located, in Metzeral, in the heart of the Wormsa Valley.
Lake Kruth-Wildenstein
Lake Kruth-Wildenstein is the most iconic outdoor swimming spot in the Haut-Rhin. Surrounded by the forests of the Vosges, it offers clear water and an exceptional mountain setting. Swimming is unsupervised, and access is free. The water is cool even in the middle of summer. Expect temperatures of 18 to 20°C in July. It’s ideal for hikers who want to combine swimming with trail walks. From our estate, this lake is about a 30-minute drive away.
Reiningue Lake, Mulhouse
Just outside Mulhouse, this developed lakeside area offers a “beach” atmosphere with seasonal lifeguard service, lawns, changing rooms, and activities for children. Admission fee applies. It’s one of the most popular spots in southern Alsace during the summer. If you’re planning a stay in this area, our page on camping in Mulhouse, Alsace will provide you with all the information you need.
Colmar-Houssen Water Sports Center
The Colmar-Houssen Water Sports Center, also known as Colmar Plage, is the main spot for swimming andwater sports in the Colmar area. Stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boats, kayaking—there’s plenty of equipment available. Limited lifeguard coverage. Admission fee applies. About ten minutes from downtown Colmar. To explore this area from your accommodations, check out our page on campgrounds near Colmar in Alsace.
Lake Lauch and Lake Altenweiher, Mittlach
These two lakes in the Vosges offer a more rugged setting, away from the crowds. Swimming is unsupervised, and access is free. The water is cold, and the scenery is spectacular. Best suited for experienced swimmers and lovers of unspoiled nature.
Black Lake and Green Lake
These high-altitude lakes are among the most beautiful in the Vosges Mountains. The water is very cold (less than 15°C in summer), and swimming is unsupervised. Their main appeal lies in their scenic beauty. The trail leading to them is accessible on foot from several points in the mountain range.
What is the most beautiful lake in Alsace for swimming?
Lake Kruth-Wildenstein is the most beautiful lake in Alsace for outdoor swimming: an unspoiled Vosges setting, clear water, and free, unrestricted access. It’s the top choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic mountain environment.
For families with young children, Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg remains the top choice: lifeguards, a sandy beach, and a full range of amenities. Two different spots for two distinct types of visitors.
If water quality is the criterion, the lakes in the Vosges (Kruth-Wildenstein, Lauch, Altenweiher) consistently receive excellent ratings, far from urban pollution. Lakes in the lowlands are more subject to seasonal variations. Check baignade.eaufrance.fr before each outing for the latest information.
Where to Go Swimming with Your Dog in Alsace: Dog-Friendly Spots
Swimming and Pets: The Best Spots
Most supervised swimming areas in Alsace prohibit dogs within the marked boundaries. This is a near-universal rule at designated swimming spots. To let your dog swim, you’ll need to go to unsupervised spots or designated areas.
Here are the best spots for dog-friendly swimming in Alsace:
- Gambsheim Lake (67): Free admission; dogs are allowed on the shore and in the water; peaceful natural setting. Ideal early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
- Fleckenstein Pond, Lembach (67): a natural, wooded spot; unsupervised swimming; dogs welcome. It’s best to visit during off-peak hours (before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.).
- Lake Lauch, Mittlach (68): a wild lake in the Vosges; no known restrictions on dogs. Cold water, exceptional setting.
- Kruth-Wildenstein Lake (68): Unsupervised swimming; dogs are generally allowed on the shores. Check the signs on site, as rules may change.
- Plage des Mouettes, Lauterbourg (67): There are designated areas for dogs outside of supervised hours. Please check with the Lauterbourg town hall before your visit.
A few practical tips: Unsupervised spots are more relaxed, but stay alert to the depth and currents. For dogs that aren’t used to the water, a life jacket is recommended on deep lakes such as Kruth-Wildenstein. Avoid peak hours (11 a.m.–5 p.m. in July and August) for everyone’s comfort.
At our resort, pets are allowed for an additional fee in certain accommodations at Les Chalets de la Wormsa. Please ask when you make your reservation to find out which accommodations are available.
Open-Water Swimming in Alsace: The Best Lakes for Swimmers
Open water, long distance, safety
Open-water swimming is for competitive swimmers who want to train or swim long distances in lakes. It differs from recreational swimming: there is no bottom within reach, no lifeguards, and the distances are longer.
Three bodies of water in Alsace are well-suited for long-distance swimming:
- Baggersee Lake (67): large surface area, calm water, no currents. The most accessible spot for swimmers from Strasbourg. Marker buoys are in place during the season.
- Lake Kruth-Wildenstein (68): clear water, deep, set in the Vosges. Ideal for experienced swimmers. Cold water: a wetsuit is recommended even in summer.
- Plage des Mouettes, Lauterbourg (67): swimming area marked by buoys, with seasonal lifeguard supervision. The only spot in the Bas-Rhin that combines long-distance swimming with lifeguard supervision.
When swimming in open water, there are a few precautions you should take: always swim with a partner, use an orange buoy that is visible to boats and other water users, and wear a wetsuit if the water temperature is below 18°C. Motorized water activities are prohibited in marked swimming areas. Check the signs on site.
Supervised Swimming in Alsace: Where to Swim Safely
Monitoring, water quality, official benchmarks
Supervised swimming is the top priority for parents with young children. In Alsace, supervision is provided seasonally at almost all swimming spots, from mid-June to the end of August, with hours varying by municipality.
Swimming spots with official lifeguard supervision (MNS) in Alsace:
- Baggersee Lake, Illkirch-Graffenstaden (67): lifeguard service in July and August; hours to be confirmed with the Illkirch-Graffenstaden town hall.
- Plage des Mouettes, Lauterbourg (67): seasonal lifeguard service, sandy beach, full range of amenities. The safest spot in the Bas-Rhin for families.
- Reiningue Lake (68): seasonal supervision, paid admission, full range of facilities.
- Colmar-Houssen Water Sports Center (68): Limited supervision depending on the area; supervised water activities.
Water quality is classified each season into four categories: excellent, good, adequate, and inadequate. An “inadequate” rating results in a ban on swimming. Check the water quality before each visit, especially after heavy rains.
For unsupervised swimming areas, the basic safety precautions remain the same: never swim alone, keep a close eye on children at all times, avoid unfamiliar deep areas, and do not dive without knowing the depth.
Our heated indoor pool in Metzeral is a safe option all year round. Open 365 days a year, with a constant depth of 1.30 m and a total area of 350 m², it welcomes families even when the skies over the Vosges lakes turn cloudy.
A Waterfront Getaway in Alsace: Les Chalets de la Wormsa, Your Swimming Spot in the Vosges
Heated pool, spa, and lakes nearby
In the heart of the Wormsa Valley, within the Schlucht-Hohneck protected mountain range, Les Chalets de la Wormsa offers you the perfect base for exploring the lakes of the Haut-Rhin. Lake Kruth-Wildenstein, the Colmar-Houssen water sports center, and Lake Altenweiher: all are less than an hour away from our resort in Metzeral.
Our heated indoor and heated outdoor pool measures 12 m × 5 m, with a total surface area of 350 m² and a depth of 1.30 m. It is open year-round, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (until 8 p.m. in the summer). When the skies cloud over the Vosges lakes, the warm water in the dome takes over. Access is included with your stay at no extra charge.
The spa area rounds out this aquatic experience: a professional hot tub, a sauna, and a steam room. After a day on the GR5 trails or by Lake Kruth, this is what the resort promises: warm water that extends your day.
Our accommodations are suitable for everyone. For a family of six, the Gîte du Hohneck offers three bedrooms and a private terrace overlooking the Vosges Forest. For a group of hikers or a blended family, the Gîte du GR5 accommodates up to eight people and offers direct access to the marked trails.
Sheets, towels, and end-of-stay cleaning are included in the price at no extra charge. This is our way of helping you focus on what really matters: nature, water, and the Vosges.
The Wormsa restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday all year round. Homemade sauerkraut, baeckaoffa, and cordon bleu with Munster cheese: authentic Alsatian cuisine, with a view of the fir trees. ANCV vacation vouchers are accepted.
To plan your camping vacation in Alsace from our resort in Munster, find all the practical information you need on our dedicated page. And to reach the area’s swimming spots, our page on camping in Munster, Alsace, provides details on how to get there and the routes from the Wormsa Valley.
Cross-border swimming spots: Germany and Switzerland from Alsace
Beyond the Rhine, other bodies of water
Alsace’s location between the Rhine and the Vosges Mountains provides easy access to outdoor swimming spots in Germany that are less than an hour away from Strasbourg or Colmar. No visa is required, and euros are often accepted.
Three German bodies of water are worth a visit:
- Waldmattensee, Lahr: a large, developed lake about 40 minutes from Strasbourg. Sandy beach, seasonal lifeguard service, water sports, and paid admission. A family-friendly atmosphere that’s very popular with Alsatians.
- Wörth-sur-le-Rhin Water Park: a water park located about 30 minutes from Karlsruhe, accessible from northern Alsace. Fully equipped; admission fee applies.
- Burkheim Gravel Pit: a natural body of water in the Kaiserstuhl region on the German side. Set amid vineyards and lakes, with open swimming and free admission. About 20 minutes from Colmar via the Breisach Bridge.
For Swiss swimming spots, the bodies of water in the canton of Basel-Landschaft are accessible from the southern part of the Haut-Rhin in less than an hour. The swimming rules and facilities are similar to those on the Alsatian side.
Practical Tips for Swimming in Alsace: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Duration, Access, Facilities, Free of Charge
Here are a few tips to help you plan your day at the beach without any unpleasant surprises.
Best time to visit: June through September, when the water is at a comfortable temperature. June and September are less crowded than July and August. The lakes in the Vosges warm up more slowly. Wait until mid-July for Kruth-Wildenstein.
Best time: early in the morning (before 10 a.m.) or late in the afternoon (after 5 p.m.) to avoid the strongest UV rays and the biggest crowds. The free spots in the Bas-Rhin are packed between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. in July.
Places You Can Reach Without a Car:
- Baggersee Lake: Take tram line D from Strasbourg to the Baggersee stop
- Ballastière in Bischheim: accessible by bus from Strasbourg
- Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg: accessible by TER from Strasbourg (line to Wissembourg)
Free camping spots: Baggersee, Plage des Mouettes, Gambsheim, Fleckenstein, Huttenheim, Benfeld, Kruth-Wildenstein, Lauch, Lac Noir, Lac Vert.
Paid swimming spots: Reiningue Lake, Colmar-Houssen Water Sports Center, Waldmattensee (Germany), Wörth Water Park.
Water quality: Check baignade.eaufrance.fr before each visit. The data is updated regularly by the ARS Grand Est during the summer season. A rating of “unsatisfactory” means swimming is prohibited.
Also worth exploring on our estate:
- Campground with spa in Alsace: hot tub, sauna, and steam room in the Vosges Valley
- Campground with a wellness area in Alsace: recharge after a day by the water
- Family Vacations in Alsace: Accommodations and Activities for All Ages
What Our Guests Say
Ana Ana
“We spent a weekend with the family. We rented two cabins. Everything was clean—the ‘Bear’ cabin was incredible!!! The hospitality was great 👍 There’s a pool room, foosball, a volleyball court, a pétanque court, playgrounds for kids, and more… The pool was great—the water was warm—and the spa was nice, too. We’ll definitely be back 🤗”
★★★★★
Google — October 19, 2025
Ludivine Bierg
“We had a wonderful mini-weekend at this campground—two nights with two adults, two children, and two small dogs. The welcome was very friendly, and the staff was warm and helpful. The pool area is great, and the wellness area (hot tub, steam room, sauna)—reserved for adults—is a real treat for relaxing. We stayed in a 10-person chalet that was well-equipped—nothing was missing. One minor downside: the mattresses were a bit too firm for our taste, which affected our sleep a little. The setting is pleasant, and there are some lovely hikes nearby, perfect for families. It was a wonderful change of scenery—I highly recommend this campground for a relaxing getaway in nature!”
★★★★★
Google — August 28, 2025
Raymonde Lidy
“We had a wonderful, relaxing family vacation. The cottages are nestled in a park surrounded by nature. I’d like to highlight how clean the cottages, the pool, the hot tub, and the saunas were. The staff is very welcoming and helpful. This was our fourth consecutive year staying here, and we’ll be happy to return. Thank you to everyone who helped make our stay so enjoyable.”
★★★★★
Google — September 8, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you go swimming in Alsace?
Alsace has many accessible spots in both departments. Must-sees: Baggersee Lake in Illkirch-Graffenstaden (67, free, accessible by tram), Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg (67, sandy, lifeguarded), Reiningue Lake near Mulhouse (68, admission fee, lifeguarded), the Colmar-Houssen water sports center (68, water sports), and Kruth-Wildenstein Lake (68, Vosges setting, free). The choice depends on your preferences: families with children, sports enthusiasts, or nature lovers.
Where can you go open-water swimming in Alsace?
For long-distance swimming, three spots stand out: Lake Baggersee in Illkirch-Graffenstaden (67), with buoys marking the swimming area during the season; Lake Kruth-Wildenstein (68), with clear, deep water and a Vosges setting; and Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg (67), a designated swimming area with seasonal lifeguard supervision. When swimming in open water, always swim with a companion and use an orange safety buoy. The water in the Vosges lakes remains cool even in summer—a wetsuit is recommended.
What is the most beautiful lake in Alsace?
Lake Kruth-Wildenstein in the Haut-Rhin department is often praised for its exceptional Vosges setting: clear water, surrounding forests, and free, unrestricted access. For families with children, Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg (Bas-Rhin) offers the best amenities: a sandy beach, supervised swimming, and changing rooms. The choice depends on your priorities: natural scenery (Kruth-Wildenstein), safety and amenities (Plage des Mouettes), or water sports (the Colmar-Houssen water sports center).
Which is the most beautiful lake for swimming?
In Alsace, Lake Kruth-Wildenstein (Haut-Rhin) and Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg (Bas-Rhin) are the region’s two top spots. For outdoor swimming in a pristine natural setting, Kruth-Wildenstein is the place to go. For supervised swimming with full amenities, Plage des Mouettes is the best option in the Bas-Rhin.
Where are the free swimming spots in Alsace?
Several bodies of water are accessible without an admission fee: Baggersee Lake (Illkirch-Graffenstaden, 67), Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg (67), the Gambsheim lake (67), Fleckenstein Pond in Lembach (67), Lake Kruth-Wildenstein (68), Lake Lauch in Mittlach (68), and Lac Noir and Lac Vert (68). Free admission may vary depending on seasonal facilities—check on site or with local tourist offices.
Can you go swimming with your dog in Alsace?
Yes, at certain unsupervised spots. The best options are: the Gambsheim body of water (67), Fleckenstein Pond in Lembach (67), and Lake Lauch in Mittlach (68). Supervised swimming areas generally prohibit dogs within the marked perimeter. It’s best to visit during off-peak hours (before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.). On deep lakes, a life jacket for your dog is recommended. Les Chalets de la Wormsa allows pets for an additional fee in certain accommodations.
Will swimming in the Ill River in Strasbourg be allowed in 2026?
No. The city’s plan to allow swimming in the Ill River is currently under review, particularly around the Malraux Peninsula, but no swimming areas will be officially open in the Ill River in Strasbourg by 2025. Water quality is gradually improving, but the regulatory thresholds for official swimming have not yet been met. Stay tuned for announcements from the Strasbourg City Hall to learn about the project’s progress.
Where can you go swimming in Colmar?
The main swimming spot near Colmar is the Colmar-Houssen water sports center, also known as Colmar Plage, about ten minutes from downtown. It offers stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boats, kayaking, and a swimming area with limited lifeguard coverage. There is an admission fee. For a more natural outdoor swimming experience, Lake Kruth-Wildenstein is less than an hour’s drive from Colmar.
Are there any sandy beaches in Alsace?
True sandy beaches are rare in Alsace. La Plage des Mouettes in Lauterbourg (Bas-Rhin) is an exception, featuring a developed sandy beach, seasonal lifeguard service, and a full range of amenities. Most other spots in Alsace have grassy or gravelly shores. The lakes of the Vosges, on the other hand, offer a pristine natural setting with wooded shores that are very popular.