La Parenthese

We cannot recommend this gîte after our experience with Frédéric and Laurence. We found their dealings with us lacking in transparency and highly unprofessional. When we asked about the house after seeing it listed on platforms such as Airbnb for around €1,800, we were contacted directly and told that the listed price was “incorrect” and that the actual price was €2,790. We had to cancel seven months ahead, and the owner had already rented the whole house again, but still refused for months to return our deposit of more than €1,200 in full. He claimed that deposits are always forfeited under French law, which was false. He repeatedly blamed “technical bank problems” and even “suspected fraud” for the delay. After sending part of the money, he held back the remaining €256 with flimsy excuses. The issue was finally resolved only after the Gîtes de France conciliation board formally intervened and ordered a full refund, because the contract had no cancellation clause. The accommodation itself is lovely, which makes this a shame, but the owner's conduct was unacceptable. This doesn’t come close to a five-star standard. If honesty and professional service matter to you, steer clear.

We were with friends and young children in winter, and still had plenty to do. The wellness room was well equipped with a jacuzzi, sauna, and walk-in shower, while the basement games room was great for kids and adults alike. The chalet’s different living areas have been redecorated and feel fresh, and the amenities are exceptional. The peaceful, secluded setting in the heart of the High Vosges Mountains of Alsace was lovely. We also spent a day at the small, family-friendly Markstein ski resort, about 30 minutes away. There was snow, luckily, and a day pass with equipment rental cost €100 per couple. The National Automobile Museum in Mulhouse is well worth visiting, and there are plenty more places to explore in the unspoiled nature nearby. We were never bored. Thanks especially to the people who handled check-in and check-out. They were incredibly kind and accommodating.

We had a friendly welcome, and they were flexible about arrival and departure times. The house was spacious and had everything we needed for our family group of 12. Even with little snow and bad weather, there were activities to keep both adults and children busy. The relaxation area and games room were especially nice for unwinding in the evenings. Thanks again!

The welcome was very warm, and the cottage has a magnificent view and great amenities. But the advertised heated swimming pool wasn’t ready to use. The water was only 18°C instead of the 28°C we expected from the description. There’s also a pool table, but it’s so badly damaged that it can’t be used. It’s a shame those two features were included in the listing.