Lac Blanc, Mountain lake in Vosges, France

Lac Blanc lies at 1055 m in the southern Vosges, in the Haut-Rhin department above Orbey and Kaysersberg. The 29-hectare lake reaches a maximum depth of 72 m. To the west, the peat-covered Hautes Chaumes plateau drops over 100 m steeply to the shore; the Rocher Hans, topped by a statue of the Virgin, overlooks the water. A parking area and restaurant stand on the south shore.

Development as a tourist destination began in the early 20th century when mountaineering clubs established marked trails and shelters in the area. This early infrastructure laid the foundation for today's use as a popular hiking destination.

The lake's name comes from its bed, whose sand has the colour of crystallised sand. Above the water, a large rock called Rocher Hans is topped by a statue of the Virgin. The Club vosgien marks the surrounding paths, and three long-distance routes cross here: the GR 5, GR 531 and GR 532.

The lake is accessible year-round, though spring through autumn offers the best hiking conditions when snow does not block the higher trails. Good hiking boots are important, as paths become slippery on steep sections, especially after rain or wet weather.

The lake's name comes from its bed, whose sand is said to have the colour of crystalline sand. Above the water, a large rock called Rocher Hans is topped by a statue of the Virgin, and an climbing school uses its faces. In winter, icefalls up to 100 metres high form nearby.