In Gérardmer, the modest old coaching inn of 1840 has been turned into one of the gems of the hotel industry in the Vosges area – the Grand Hôtel. In addition to its seventy 3-star bedrooms, this luxury hotel also has 4-star bedrooms and suites in its Chalet.

This is an attractive natural setting ideal for walking or mountain biking, but well-being can also be “cocooning”. Or it may be a decorative feature, possibly Cuban in style. Or a chance to share a bottle of really good wine, since the cellar stores a veritable treasure trove. There are three restaurants - the gourmet Pavillon Pétrus, named after the grandfather, the Grand Cerf and the Assiette du Coq à l’âne with its more rustic farmhouse-type atmosphere.

A wide range of amenities and services are available to guests e.g. 2 swimming pools including one indoor, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, spa, body sculpting and well-being beauty care etc.  You can even get away from it all in a yurt. And a short distance away is a mountain brandy distillery and a confectionary manufacturer. The hotel lends out mountain bikes, with route suggestions, if you want to explore the Upper Vosges.