This house offered exactly what we were looking for this autumn: a week away with the family in nature, beautiful views, enough things to do <1h ride away, a lovely kitchen with fireplace and a kids-proof house. Basic, but comfortable.
We had a few great walks, recommendations:
- Fôret de Mérelle in Gerardmer: brisk walk with some rock climbing 2.5-3 hours.
- Rupt-sur-Moselle: Walk via Grotte de la Sauture, among others. With some climbing but doable.
- Walk to Saint-Mont: easy to do with children, beautiful view.
- Walk up to le Ballon d'Alsace, short route to the top, bit touristic, but worth the view.
Furthermore, a warm recommendation for Epinal, including the musée de l'image, walking along la Moselle, and the park at the chateau has an extensive playground for children up to 8 years old.
The kitchen is reasonably well equipped with (among other things) a food processor, blender, hand blender, pressure cooker, toaster, Dutch oven, kitchen scale, rolling pin and quiche molds. For those who enjoy cooking, it is useful to bring sharp knives and your own spices + other basics such as baking paper.
There are 2 bedrooms on the ground floor. The 3rd bedroom with 2 single beds is located separately on the 1st floor and is accessible via a landing. Maybe a bit far away for young children. Bathroom is basic, but fine. Shower has a good jet, but with 4 people you have to be careful with available hot water.
Other plus points: lots of sockets (these are often scarce in h
