Germany's Black Forest gets its name from its evergreens' density, creating a moody, darkening effect. The region is also known for cuckoo clock-making, hot springs, and snow sports.

Another great reason to go: a couple who'd been living here for over 20 years found a traditional gable-roofed house from the 1970s and transformed it into a modern chalet with charcoal tones inside and out. The result is bold, dramatic and soulful.

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The darkened palette extends itself inside, featuring a striking designer kitchen that's equipped with a large central block for preparing excellent meals with the local ingredients. Inside, you'll find a Nespresso machine, toaster, wine refrigerator and induction hob with an integrated extractor hood. You'll also have a dishwasher, oven with a microwave, and everything you need to make raclette or fondue. The brand-name crockery is from the "House Doctor" company.

Sample different varieties of juniper berry-inflected spirits in the regional gin bar (subject to a charge) by the fireplace, or unwind in the home's wellness area with its own private sauna and gym.

And if you find yourself falling for any of the smaller design items or accessories, you can take the magic home with you. Several pieces can be purchased in the owners' Concept Store in Kirchzarten (they also have an online shop).

The Chalet Noir has five bedrooms, four bathrooms and can accommodate a maximum of ten people.

Bedroom No°1 is 30 m² with a Rolf Benz king-size box-spring bed and en suite bathroom with freestanding bathtub, rain shower and double washbasin. It also has a large balcony, multimedia TV and a wireless Marshall surround system.

No°2 is 26 m² with a Rolf Benz king-size box-spring bed and en suite bathroom with a rain shower and double washstand. This room has a multimedia TV and wireless Marshall surround system.

Bedroom No°3 is a cozy attic room with a queen-size box-spring bed with an innerspring mattress and a large built-in wardrobe in the hallway. This bedroom shares a bathroom with No°4, and includes a rain shower, washbasin and WC.

A popular choice for children, Bedroom No°4 is attic-style and has two single bunk beds.

Bedroom No°5 has a queen-size box-spring bed, 65 inch TV, wireless Marshall surround system and a separate bathroom with double rain shower, washstand and WC.

All bedrooms have premium-quality cotton or linen bed linens, bathrobes and slippers and a hairdryer. Four bathrooms are exclusively supplied with Meraki products and lovingly furnished in every detail.

The chalet is also equipped with a washing machine and dryer, ironing board and iron, fireplace, multimedia TV and Playstation 4 Pro in the living area, plus a Marshall Bluetooth sound system. You'll have access to free WiFi, private car parking and two garages with electric gate system.

The home also has central heating, barbecue and a baby cot.

Bookable extras (fees apply): Transfer from Euro Airport Basel, refrigerator filling, cleaning and laundry service, personal chef, personal trainer, e-bike rental.

ALPINE NATURE, CLOCKS AND DELECTABLE CAKE

The Le Chalet Noir is located in Hinterzarten, a health resort village in the southern Black Forest that's minutes from the legendary Thoma ski lift – named after the famous ski pioneer Georg Thoma – used at the World Cup. It is also known as the setting of Grimm's fairy tales.

Dense forests, broad meadows and glacial lakes define this romantic mountain region. It is filled with ski and hiking trails, and a natural ice rink. Cuckoo clocks have been made in this region since the 18th century and you can see a plethora of authentic ones at the House of 1000 Clocks in Triberg.

Culinary delights also abound, and you shouldn't leave the region without trying a slice of Morello cherry-infused Black Forest cake.

LOCATION

Hinterzarten, Germany. Nearest airport: Stuttgart Airport (53km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round