Best lakes around Mothern are found in the surrounding Alsace region and the nearby Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park. Mothern, a commune in northeastern France's Bas-Rhin department, is situated near the Rhine River, providing access to various aquatic environments. The area features undulating hills, extensive forests, and numerous ponds, offering a rich natural heritage. This region is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it suitable for nature enthusiasts.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
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The Altrhein near Plittersdorf is a former arm of the Rhine, which was separated from the main current by the Rhine regulation in the 19th century (also called Rhine straightening). Today, the Altrhein is a calm, mostly slow-flowing or stagnant body of water in the Rhine floodplain near Plittersdorf. It is surrounded by floodplain forests, meadows, and small bodies of water. This natural landscape offers many animal and plant species an important habitat, for example birds such as herons and swans, as well as various fish species. In the past, the Rhine flowed directly past Plittersdorf and often led to floods. The course of the river was changed by the straightening, and the Altrhein was preserved as a "remnant" of the old Rhine. Today, it has above all ecological significance and also serves as a recreational area for people.
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Beautiful area, well-developed cycle path.
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It's a good place to watch birds.
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Beautiful view over the lake, directly on the path
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Deserted and just a few swans - very relaxing. I was amazed at how clear the water is.
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A highly recommended cycle path
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It is particularly beautiful here in the evening, just before sunset. Linger and absorb the vibrations of nature. Listening to the birds, swans, grebes, coots, cormorants, silver herons and gray herons and occasionally watching a stork, yes, that's possible here.
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There is a very similar viewing platform on the exact opposite side of the lake. I really like these two.
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The area around Mothern, particularly in the surrounding Alsace region and the nearby Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park, offers several notable water bodies. Popular spots include Observation Deck at Fermasee for its lake panorama, and the South Shore of Goldkanal, which is appreciated for cooling off during summer. The Étang de la Chapelle in Beinheim is also a developed water body popular for swimming.
Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. The Fermasee South Shore features a very flat beach, making it ideal for children. The Étang de la Chapelle in Beinheim also offers a designated swimming area with lawns and a playground, and its swimming is supervised during July and August, making it a safe option for families.
For supervised swimming, the Étang de la Chapelle in Beinheim is an excellent choice. Swimming is supervised in July and August, generally from Monday to Friday from 1 PM to 8 PM, and on weekends and public holidays from 11 AM to 8 PM. Facilities include showers, toilets, and accessibility for people with reduced mobility. Another option is the Plan d'eau de Benfeld, which has a supervised sandy beach in summer.
The region is characterized by undulating hills, extensive forests, and numerous ponds, offering a rich natural heritage. You can expect diverse flora and fauna, especially in areas like the Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park. Lakes like Ferma Lake are part of nature reserves, allowing for observation of waterfowl and other wildlife. Many spots also offer scenic viewpoints, such as the Observation Deck at Fermasee.
Absolutely. The Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park, which is close to Mothern, offers 1650 km of marked trails for hiking and cycling. Additionally, you can find various routes for outdoor activities in the wider region. For specific routes, you can explore Road Cycling Routes around Mothern, Running Trails around Mothern, and MTB Trails around Mothern.
The Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park is a significant natural area spanning parts of the Bas-Rhin and Moselle departments, very close to Mothern. It covers 1,300 km² of forests, hills, and clearings, and is home to numerous ponds ('étangs'). The park has received the UNESCO 'World Biosphere Reserve' title due to its exceptional natural wealth, offering extensive trails for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observation. The Étang du Donnebach, a fishing pond, is located within this park.
Yes, the Observation Deck at Fermasee is specifically designed for this, offering a very nice lake panorama of Lake Fermasee. It's one of two observation platforms on the lake and a great spot for a break.
The Étang de la Chapelle in Beinheim is popular for swimming, especially during the summer season when it's supervised. It features a designated swimming area with lawns, a playground for children, showers, and toilets. It's an ideal spot for cooling off and enjoying outdoor activities in a natural setting.
For a peaceful, natural swimming experience, the southeastern area of Fermasee South Shore allows for natural swimming. Even on busy days, you can often find tranquility there. It's appreciated by visitors looking for a scenic experience and shade while bathing, away from the hustle and bustle.
Visitors appreciate the variety of experiences, from developed swimming areas to natural reserves. Many enjoy the opportunity for natural swimming, the scenic lake panoramas from viewpoints like the Observation Deck at Fermasee, and the chance to relax by the water. The flat, child-friendly beaches, such as at Fermasee South Shore, are also highly valued.
The summer months are ideal for visiting the lakes, especially if you plan to swim or enjoy water-based activities. Many designated swimming areas, like the Étang de la Chapelle, offer supervised swimming during July and August. The warmer weather also makes it pleasant for hiking and cycling in the surrounding natural areas.
Beyond the immediate vicinity, the Bas-Rhin region offers other recreational water bodies. These include the Plan d'eau de Benfeld, known for its supervised sandy beach and activities like paddleboarding, and the Lac de la Ballastière in Bischheim, which has supervised beaches and wild coves. The Plan d'eau du Fleckenstein near Fleckenstein Castle also offers supervised swimming and relaxation.
Yes, there is a nice circular route around Ferma Lake, which is located in a nature reserve right next to the Rhine. This route allows you to explore the lake's surroundings and observe waterfowl from various viewpoints.


Still not found your perfect lake around Mothern? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.