An epic region filled with vibrant countryside, Lorraine bursts with fauna and flora in summer and then transforms into a white wonderland in winter.
Holiday cottages in Lorraine are popular throughout the year due to the vast amount of activities available and the stunning landscape of the region, which features crystal clear lakes, thunderous waterfalls, craggy mountains and rolling hills. This French region has a rich history and many monuments that stand as reminders of the role that the region and its ancestors played in the development of Europe’s art and culture.
Lorraine is home to three magnificent regional country parks which offer unspoiled scenery. Northern Vosges Regional Natural Park boasts a unique landscape of sandstone, hot springs and many waterways. Hikers can explore over 1,650km of trails and the park also offers over 900km of routes for horse riding, cycling and mountain biking.
Many holiday cottages in Lorraine are situated within 2 hours of this striking park, which is simply not to be missed. Between the Côtes de Meuse area and the “land of lakes” lies the stunning Lorraine Country Park, where many activities and panoramic views can be enjoyed. Finally the breathtaking Ballons des Vosges Nature Park is a beautiful place bursting with life.
For more modern thrills why not visit one of the region’s theme parks which are packed with adrenaline-producing rides. Choose from Walygator Parc in Maizières-lès-Metz and Fraispertuis in Jeanméni. These parks are ideal for all ages and offer a nice contrast to more leisurely pursuits.
In winter holiday cottages in Lorraine are very popular with skiers who want easy access to slopes of the Vosges. Many other winter activities are available in the area including ice climbing, skidoos and winter paragliding. There are slopes for all abilities and professional ski instructors who can teach beginners. There is a wide range of holiday cottages in Lorraine that offer quick access to the region’s best resorts as well as the many other attractions of the region.
Lorraine is renowned for glass and crystal making and there is a selection of classes and workshops which are available for guests in the Northern Vosges area. This magnificent talent that has played a pivotal part in the development of Lorraine can also be admired in the spectacular stained glass windows of the region’s churches. Wherever your holiday cottage in Lorraine is located, you are likely to be close to examples of the region’s incredible religious architecture. One highly-rated example is the mesmerising statue of the Entombment which stands in the hall-church dedicated to St. Stephen in Saint-Mihiel. The sculptor Ligier Richier took 10 years to create the masterpiece, which is undeniably mesmerising.
During your stay in Lorraine there will be plenty of opportunities to taste some of the region’s famous cuisine, including the well-known Quiche Lorraine. There are many restaurants and cafés throughout the region, as well as plenty of markets for buying fresh local produce. A selection of restaurants offer cookery classes, which is the perfect way to learn more about the famous French cuisine.
Throughout Lorraine there are reminders of some of the pivotal roles the region has played in Europe’s and the World’s history. In Domrémyla-Pucelle you can visit the birth place of Joan of Arc, whilst in Manderen you can enjoy a medieval feast and discover six centuries of history at Malbrouck Castle. Many people who stay in Lorraine holiday cottages take the opportunity to visit the war memorials and remnants from WW1. These include the Verdun battlefield, where you can see the remains of damages caused by WW1 including the Citadel of Verdun and the Memorial of Verdun. The World Centre for Peace which is also in Verdun welcomes visitors throughout the year. The former Bishops Palace houses exhibitions, meetings and discussions which are aimed at keeping the memories of what was sacrificed during the war alive.
From a stunning blend of Art-Nouveau, Ancient Roman and Gothic architecture to an unsurpassed landscape, Lorraine boasts a true wealth of culture and history. On this website you will find a comprehensive range of holiday cottages in Lorraine that are perfectly positioned for days of endless discovery.