Top 5 things to do
around Lake Madine with the family

Explore the lake by electric boat

Covering 1,100 hectares and boasting unspoilt shores, Lake Madine is the largest lake in Lorraine, nestled in the heart of a protected Natura 2000 site. To experience it in a different way, hop aboard a genuine floating, electric lounge. No engine noise, just us, the tranquillity of the surrounding countryside and the stories told by Jean Philippe, our captain, who loves the lake and has watched it grow over the years. Lily looks around, plays with our binoculars and keeps an eye out for swans, herons and coots. As for us, we slow down and enjoy this lovely trip in the sunshine. A gentle, accessible activity, perfect for getting into the rhythm of the place.

The trip lasts about an hour, departing from Nonsard harbour, and must be booked in advance.

Watching migratory birds & a walking trail

If you missed them by boat, head to the bird observatory at Lac de Madine, in Heudicourt-Sous-Les-Côtes. It’s an unmissable spot to take the time to watch and listen to nature. Hidden away inside, through small, discreet openings, you can watch undisturbed, in peace and quiet. It offers a panoramic view of Île Verte, Île du Bois Gérard and the reed beds – true sanctuaries for wildlife. Here, migratory birds visit all year round (depending on the species). Next to the observatory, a themed trail focusing on migratory birds rounds off the experience and allows you to learn more about the species and the lake’s history. A lovely, fun walk to enjoy with children!

Cycling round the lake

In Madine, everything is set up for exploring by bike, balance bike or even a tandem. With Lily, who’s only 3, we hire two mountain bikes and a small trailer so she can have her nap and enjoy the scenery. We set off on a lovely 19 km loop and very quickly forget about everything else. We cycle at our own pace, with no pressure. Lily falls asleep, comfortably settled in, whilst we spot herons, swans, coypu and even a fox as we round the edge of a field. The route is mostly safe, winding through woodland, along dykes and wild riverbanks. The forest sections are particularly welcome on this summer’s day. Only the climb up to Montsec gives our legs a bit of a workout, but everything else is easy. In short, it’s an ideal family activity that you can tailor to suit your preferences.

Bikes can be hired at the two lakeside centres, on the Nonsard side or the Heudicourt-sous-les-Côtes side. Please note that there is a short section on a shared-use local road.

A walk to the Bures Chapel

If you’ve still got a bit of energy left after your bike ride, put on your trainers for a lovely walk starting from the village of Buxières-sous-les-Côtes, just a few minutes from Lake Madine. Winding through fields, orchards and past the village bell tower, this circular walk takes you to the Chapelle des Bures, perched at an altitude of 375 metres. Once you arrive, the view over the lake and the surrounding countryside is a real treat that’s well worth the effort. A simple, peaceful spot where you can take the time to pause… and from which you’ll definitely not want to leave! An accessible walk, even with children, offering a chance to discover another side to the area.

Signposting: follow the yellow crosses

Taking in the view from the Butte de Montsec

To round off the day, on the advice of the locals, we headed to Montsec Hill. At an altitude of 377 metres, this promontory offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Lake Madine and the Woëvre plain. At the summit, there’s not just a view but also an imposing memorial site, which we’d actually spotted in the distance several times during the day. The Montsec American Memorial, with its tall columns, pays tribute to the American soldiers who fell during the First World War. A place steeped in history that leaves no one unmoved. People come here as much to understand as to admire the view. Lily is still a little too young for this period of history. At sunset, the light bathes the landscapes and the lake stretching out below in a sublime glow. A moment suspended in time, between remembrance and nature.

Bonus: treat yourself to a gourmet break

There’s no shortage of fine dining options in the Meuse, and when visiting Lake Madine, La Mangeoire is the place to go for lunch to treat yourself. Run by the young and talented chef Quentin Pierre, the restaurant is housed in a former farmhouse. It offers a socially conscious dining experience that showcases local produce with finesse. You won’t forget the three-course ‘Promenade à la Ferme’ menu, featuring a trout cooked to perfection at a low temperature.

Booking recommended.

We absolutely loved our weekend in Madine – it’s so much more than just a lake; we found it to be a life-sized playground, combining laid-back activities, wonderful encounters and wide open spaces. This is just a tiny fraction of the things you can do at the lake and in the surrounding area.