Retreat to the Vosges mountains for a stay in the heart of a sustainable family farm. Ideally situated between Kaysersberg and Lac Blanc at an elevation of 720 m, la Ferme des Embetschés is home to 160 goats, as well as sheep, pigs and ponies. The gîte, a cozy private home with panoramic views of the valley, features a king-size bed in the primary bedroom, a spacious balcony, and a well-equipped kitchen to make the most of hyperlocal ingredients — like the best cheese and bacon you’ve ever had.

The space
Situated in the center of the farm community, the gîte spans three floors, with the kitchen and main living space at ground level, the primary bedroom and bathroom below, and the second bedroom lofted above. The southern exposure provides ample sunlight, and from the balcony you can enjoy extraordinary sunsets. Exposed beams, original art, high-quality Vosgienne linens, and other thoughtful details surprise and delight for a comfortable and unique escape.

Across the valley, look out onto mountains filled with vestiges of World War I, accessible within a short drive and with many hiking itineraries to explore the sites.

Charcoal grill for barbecuing available upon request. Raclette grill included for cheesy nights, and a yoga mat to balance the indulgence.

Guest access
Everyone can find something for them in the area. The farm’s close proximity to stunning nature, outdoor activities in all seasons, charming towns, Michelin-starred restaurants and centuries-old history make it the perfect home base for exploring Alsace and the Vosges. We’re located 15 minutes from Kaysersberg and Lac Blanc, 30 minutes from Colmar, and just over an hour from Strasbourg, Basel and Freiburg.

A short drive away at the nearby co-op, the Cellier des Montagnes, you can find all of the farm’s cheeses and meats for sale, as well as many other local and organic products. A supermarket, gas station, movie theater, restaurants, bakeries, and the Lac Blanc Ski Station and Bike Park are also within a 10-minute drive.

At the Lac Blanc Ski Station, the 14 km of slopes are ideal for beginners and families, and great fun for everyone else. Night skiing is possible on certain days of the week.

Your hosts are a French-American couple who live next door. Between the two of us we speak French, English and Spanish. We look forward to showing you around the farm.

Nearby activities: hiking, trail biking, downhill mountain biking, e-biking through vineyards, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, skate skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, wine tasting, fine dining, fermes auberges, museums, castles, World War history, wandering towns, soaking in the views

Other things to note
Farm life can be magical but it's not always glamorous! Come with a sense of adventure. Bring shoes or boots that you won't mind getting muddy. Know that sometimes there are funny smells. In the warmer months, there are houseflies. They can be a nuisance but they're harmless, and the screens on essential windows and doors are a tremendous help. Good news: Very few mosquitoes.

Happy goats, sheep, pigs, horses, dogs and cats live on the farm. The dogs are shepherds and devoted to protecting their herds. They are friendly but will likely bark until they've gotten to know you. Use good sense around all animals and treat them with respect.

For some guests, venturing up the mountain to reach the farm may be a new challenge. It is a paved road but steep and narrow. In the winter, the snow is cleared. Snow tires are required and we recommend 4x4 if snow is expected. Take it slowly — you'll do great.

There are plenty of books but no television. Bring your own device and connect to the wifi if you'd like some digital entertainment. If you have a portable speaker, you might enjoy bringing that too.