Description Pristine Waters: Gérardmer

There's something quietly beautiful about this home that sits just four hundred metres from Lake Gérardmer – it's something to do with the handsome granite exterior, large windows and timber-framed rooftop that all combine to make for a certain rustic charm.

By comparison, the interior is a little more contemporary in style, with stark white walls adorned with artwork, a minimalist kitchen and furnishings that look to the Nordic nations for influence. There are a few period features as well, including stained glass windows, a beech bannister and the fireplace, which is sadly only decorative.

It's fair to say, however, that if you're venturing to Gérardmer, you're hoping to spend as much time out in the Alpine air as possible. Not only does the home have a garden complete with seating for enjoying mild patches, but there's a whole host of excursions to try locally. There's a free shuttle bus to take you to the lifts up to the La Mauselaine ski area, but if you're here during the warmer months, days full of hiking and lake swimming await.

Home truths:
*The home is spread over three floors with no elevator or bedrooms on the ground level
*There's room to park up to six cars on the premises
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for free upon request