Top 8 Lakes around Balgau
Best lakes around Balgau are found in the Haut-Rhin department of France, offering access to various natural and man-made lakes within the Alsace region. This area is characterized by its diverse aquatic landscapes, ranging from serene gravel pits to high-altitude mountain lakes. These bodies of water provide opportunities for outdoor activities and natural exploration. The region's geography includes proximity to the Rhine and the Vosges Mountains, influencing the types of lakes found here.
Best lakes around Balgau
- The most popular lakes is Baggersee Hartheim, a lake with beach and family-friendly features. It is known for its clear, light-blue water and multiple stretches of beach, with bathing areas primarily in the western part of the lake.
- Another must-see spot is Hartheim Gravel Lake, a lake with a beach. This lake is located directly on the Rhine bike path and offers clean, tranquil waters for a refreshing stop.
- Visitors also love Grißheim Gravel Pit Lake, a scenic lake. It is appreciated for its natural beauty, though swimming is not permitted.
- Balgau is known for gravel pit lakes, mountain lakes, and dam lakes. These include options for swimming, walking, and enjoying natural scenery.
- The lakes around Balgau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 80 upvotes and 12 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
Hartheim Gravel Lake
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There's no entrance fee, but there's also no kiosk, changing rooms, or anything like that. However, it's not crowded and very peaceful. The water is crystal clear.
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Baggersee Hartheim
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Grißheim Gravel Pit Lake
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Rest Area at the Marina
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Friessee
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful clean bathing lake with small bays
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Badesse can be reached via a gravel road
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Large quarry pond located just behind the cycle path that runs along the Rhine. The water is very clean and it is possible to swim. It is also a great, fairly quiet bivouac spot.
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The Grissheimer See is idyllically situated in the countryside directly on the Rhine. The water shimmers turquoise blue. Trees and bushes line the shore and are reflected in the lake. The Black Forest lies dark in the background. The hilly shore invites you to sunbathe, the equipment in the water, such as excavators or cranes, act like diving boards. But be careful ❗ Entering the entire area is prohibited, and bathing is also strictly prohibited. ⛔ Source: BZ
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The Grißheimer Baggersee is beautiful to look at, unfortunately swimming is not allowed here.
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With its clear, light-blue water and many stretches of beach, this is probably one of the most beautiful quarry ponds in the area. The bathing areas are mainly in the western part of the lake.
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The most beautiful quarry pond I know. Cycle a little through the floodplain forest from the Rhine Cycle Path and you have already reached the bathing paradise
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The Hartheimer Baggersee is the baggersee of my youth. Here we always met in the clique on weekends to chill and bathe. The water is reminiscent of the South Seas, turquoise, clear and very clean. A swim stop is definitely worthwhile here if you are on the Rhine cycle path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Balgau?
The Balgau area, situated in the Haut-Rhin department of France, offers a variety of lakes including serene gravel pit lakes, high-altitude mountain lakes, and dam lakes. These range from natural settings to those with recreational facilities.
Which lakes are suitable for swimming near Balgau?
For swimming, you can visit Baggersee Hartheim, known for its clear, light-blue water and multiple bathing areas. Hartheim Gravel Lake also offers clean, tranquil waters for a refreshing dip. Further afield, Reiningue Lake features a large sandy beach with free supervised swimming during summer.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Balgau?
Yes, Baggersee Hartheim is considered family-friendly due to its beach and clear water. Reiningue Lake is also a great family destination with its sandy beach and supervised swimming in summer, along with fishing and sailing opportunities.
Can I go hiking near the lakes around Balgau?
Absolutely. The region offers various hiking opportunities. For example, you can find routes like the 'Rhine River – Baggersee Hartheim loop' or the 'View of Grissheim Gravel Pit loop'. You can explore more hiking trails in the area by visiting the Hiking around Balgau guide.
Are there cycling routes that pass by the lakes?
Yes, several lakes are accessible by bike. Hartheim Gravel Lake is located directly on the Rhine bike path, making it a perfect stop during a tour. You can find more cycling options, including gravel biking and road cycling routes, in the Gravel biking around Balgau and Road Cycling Routes around Balgau guides.
Which lakes offer the most scenic views?
For stunning natural beauty, consider Lac de la Lauch, nestled in an impressive Ice Age amphitheater at 940m altitude. Lac du Ballon, a small natural lake at 988 meters at the foot of the Grand Ballon, also offers high-altitude, mountainous scenery. Kruth-Wildenstein Lake is surrounded by forests and the highest peaks of the Vosges Mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop.
Are there lakes where swimming is not permitted?
Yes, at Grißheim Gravel Pit Lake, swimming is unfortunately not allowed, despite its scenic beauty. It's always advisable to check local regulations as restrictions can vary.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Balgau?
The summer months are ideal for swimming and water activities, especially at lakes like Reiningue Lake with supervised swimming. For hiking and enjoying the natural scenery, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes. Mountain lakes like Lac de la Lauch and Lac du Ballon are particularly stunning when the weather is clear.
Are there any quiet or less crowded lakes?
Hartheim Gravel Lake is generally not crowded and offers a serene environment. Friessee is also known for its lonely beach and crystal clear water, offering a peaceful escape.
What amenities are available near the lakes?
Amenities vary by lake. Some, like Hartheim Gravel Lake, are more natural with no kiosks or changing rooms. Lac Blanc has an adjacent parking lot and restaurant. For general resting spots, the Rest Area at the Marina provides benches with a view.
Can I fish in the lakes near Balgau?
Fishing is permitted in some lakes, such as Reiningue Lake, Lac Blanc (with a license), and Lac du Forlet. It's important to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before fishing.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Balgau?
Visitors frequently praise the clear, clean, and often turquoise waters, especially at Baggersee Hartheim and Hartheim Gravel Lake. The tranquil and natural settings, opportunities for refreshing swims, and scenic backdrops for cycling and walking are also highly appreciated.
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