Instants d'Absolu Ecolodge, Auvergne, France - Explore & Book
"This is a place of pure peace; a pocket of beautiful wilderness and isolation where you can step off the spinning merry-go-round of urban life and recharge your weary batteries. Auvergne is a secret pocket of France that few tourists hear about - a green landscape of pine woods and ancient volcanic plateaus that feels almost primeval in its elemental beauty. And right in the middle, at the edge of Lac du Pêcher, sits this 300-year-old farmhouse turned ecolodge. No neighbours, just absolute silence and staggering views. Owners Laurence and Daniel want to encourage guests to return to a slower pace of life and rediscover the forgotten luxuries of solitude and unspoilt nature. We're yet to visit ourselves, but guests tell us it's like being in a peaceful bubble, with endless time to explore ancient forest trails by foot, by bike, and on horseback. To eat local food and disconnect from stress and electronic devices. To sit in the outdoor hot tub and admire a sparkling mountain lake or stargaze at night; there's a total lack of light pollution. To have spa treatments and try meditation. And above all, to leave refreshed. Highs Owners Laurence and Daniel are superb, inspiring hosts Guests rave about the seasonal, farm-to-table menu: it changes daily and is (largely) a surprise! Just 12 bedrooms, which helps retain an intimate feel A pristine remote wilderness where you can walk through pine forests, hike along volcano summits, and sit and watch deer, fox, badger and birds Lows Pretty remote, though that's the point: take a bi-weekly flight from London Stansted to Clermont-Ferrand then drive for an hour. It's well worth the effort Limited WiFi, no TVs and limited mobile reception: a plus for many! You'll be amazed by how deeply you sleep with a digital detox If you book a B&B rate, you'll have to drive 15-30 mins to dinner - which is why most people book half-board" - Handpicked by our hotel experts
