Fischboedle, Glacial lake in Metzeral, France
Fischboedle is a mountain lake situated in the Wormsa Valley at roughly 800 meters elevation, nestled between the peaks of Hohneck and Kastelberg. The water body spans only a few thousand square meters and reaches just a few meters deep at its lowest point.
The lake took its name from Jacques Hartmann, who established trout reservoirs in the region by combining the German words 'fisch' meaning fish and 'bödle,' an old term for wetland. This naming reflects the historical relationship between humans and freshwater resources in the Vosges.
A small shelter built by the Club Vosgien sits near the water's edge and serves as a gathering spot for hikers crossing the mountains. It reflects how the local hiking community adapted the landscape for visitors traveling through this high alpine zone.
The lake can be reached through several hiking trails, including the Sentier de la Wormsa and connections to the GR 5 long-distance route. Expect the weather to change quickly at this elevation, so bring appropriate footwear and rain protection regardless of starting conditions.
Despite its tiny size, this water body holds the distinction of being the smallest in the entire Vosges range. Few visitors realize that something so small in a mountain setting was still considered significant enough to name and protect.
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