Log Cabins & Lodges in the French Alps

For nature lovers, the French Alps is the ultimate destination, boasting the most majestic scenery in Europe, with awe-inspiring mountains, crystal-clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, and pristine forests. The Alps are the spiritual home of the log cabin, with thousands to choose from rustic villages such as Le Touvet and La Grave, internationally renowned ski centres such as Chamonix and Courchevel, the outskirts of the region’s capital city Grenoble, and everything in between.

Light and airy, bags of character, beautiful views and an amazing location. Welcome to log cabins in the French Alps! You can find modest studio log cabins perfectly located in the heart of skiing resorts – or opulent cabins with 5 bedrooms or more boasting private hot tubs and spacious gardens!

A mecca for skiers all round the world, the French Alps are also beautifully equipped to welcome families to its snowy climes. Chamonix is the embodiment of a perfect family ski town. The nursery slopes in the surrounding villages of Les Planards and Le Savoy are fantastic for introducing your children to the sport, and the ski schools offer a wide variety of programmes for the little ones with instructors specifically trained to work with kids. Chamonix itself boasts an ice rink, and your children will adore the little red Montenvers train which meanders from the centre of Chamonix to the incredible Mer de Glace glacier.

But who needs skiing when you are in France and immersed in the artful land of delicious haute cuisine?! Make sure to spend your evenings exploring local corners of the villages and towns of the Alps for quintessential French brasseries and restaurants. Whatever you choose, including a glass of red and something with cheese and you will be on to a winner! Looking for the finest dish in the Alps? Flocons de Sel in Megeve has arguably reached the peak of perfection when it comes to celebrating the art of alpine dining. Riotously colourful, engaging and up to date dishes will set your taste buds on fire!

The rugged mountains of the French Alps attract adrenaline junkies from all over the world. Mont Bloc entices hikers to its summit, and those who make it are rewarded with top-of-Europe views across the Alps. There are numerous routes for both the experienced and amateur hiker, such as the local’s favourite: Grand Balcon Nord. This 3-hour ramble takes in glaciers, roaring rivers and sweet-scenting pine forest. Take a leap of faith and try out paragliding – few places in the world do it like the Alps -– or how about a white-water adventure on the river Arve, plunge down the valley and try not to fall out!

A massive 2,042 meters above sea level, the fanciful village of St Veran in the Hautes-Alpes is the highest village in France. A beautiful, perched village with house-barns and ancient sundials, it is designated one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Ride the white-knuckle cable car ride up to Le Brevent at 2,525 metre for the most wonderful panoramic views of Mont Blanc imaginable. Vertigo sufferers – best sit this one out!

Embark on a short hike to the foot of France’s biggest glacier at an awesome 7km in length. Explore dazzling ice caves deep in the core of the glacier and learn all about his compelling phenomenon at the adjacent Glaciarium Museum!

Explore the bizarre and wonderful at the Museum of Alpine History, which celebrates the history of Chamonix from the 1700s. Housed in the gorgeous Chamonix Palace, it is worth the trip just to see the architecture, never mind the fascinating artefacts!.

Annecy is famous for its spectacular alpine lake. But not so many people know about its medieval historic centre, which is a real treat! A city of art with a magnificent architectural harmony, it is named the Venice of the Alps for its myriad canals which weave through the centre.

Skiing and hiking not your thing, then what about a city break? Grenoble is a university city with a buzzing atmosphere, a quaint old town and many sublime museums, testimony to the city's rich heritage as capital of the region.

Finally, now you are in the French Alps, and it’s time to just sit back and relax. Take in the prodigious landscapes, breath the crystal clean air, watch the sun shimmering on the mountain peaks. Read a book, write a letter, sip on a cup of coffee and just take it all in. You’ve arrived and your life affirming holiday in the French Alps begins here!