Auberge D'imsthal

“In the middle of the forest”

We stayed two days at l'Auberge d'Imsthal, at "La Petite Pierre" in the Vosges region of Eastern France. Since it was late September, the nights were filled with the roars of the male deers, Rooms & bathroom OK, restaurant not so good,

“Great potentialities...but please look at the "details"”

In the midst of French Vosgi, a stunning little lake in front of it, a pleasant wood behind it, it promises a great break from city routine. The problem is that the furniture is euphemistically "old-fashion", with many renovations which would be commendable. No English speakers, no English menus. … more

In the midst of French Vosgi, a stunning little lake in front of it, a pleasant wood behind it, it promises a great break from city routine. The problem is that the furniture is euphemistically "old-fashion", with many renovations which would be commendable. No English speakers, no English menus. No wifi The restaurant is good, although a bit pricey, as the accommodation. Really, it can become a jewel, but now it is a row gem to be polished

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“Not outstanding -- but not at all bad either”

Wife and I stayed two nights in October 2012. Our room (booked by phone) was one of the "better" ones, featuring a small balcony over the front terrace. The room was small, but featured a large and very comfortable bed and a functional shower room which worked well. Everything was spotless. WiFi c… more

Wife and I stayed two nights in October 2012. Our room (booked by phone) was one of the "better" ones, featuring a small balcony over the front terrace. The room was small, but featured a large and very comfortable bed and a functional shower room which worked well. Everything was spotless. WiFi connection was free and efficient. Breakfast and dinner (we always book to eat à-la-carte) were as good as can reasonably be expected from a "two star" establishment -- the latter being very well prepared, if not from the very best quality ingredients. Our only disappointments on the culinary front were the absence of a second bottle of Gigondas (which had been good and reasonably priced) and the total lack of comprehension on the part of the waiting staff as to which other wines on their list might be similar! We ended up with a more than satisfactory, but predictably expensive, Châteauneuf -- but only after I had to explain that a pinot noir was not going to be my choice. Perhaps a small warning on communication: you really do need passable French or German to enjoy a stay at the Auberge. Some staff have some English but seem a little shy of using it, but I can imagine trying to get by in just English might be quite frustrating. Even for a Silence Hotel, this has to rate as the quietest hotel in which we've ever slept. And, the walking is beautiful -- less than a couple of hours brings you easily to the centre of La Petite Pierre. Would we go back? Yes, on ballance it was a pleasant experience -- but we might also investigate other options in the area.

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