Sustainable eco huts built on stilts in an idyllic French pine forest

A series of beautiful eco lodges gently meld into an idyllic pine forest in southwestern France. Designed by French firm Patrick Arotcharen Architecte, the small timber huts that make up the Les Echasses Hotel were constructed with locally-sourced timber on stilts. Hovering over a private lake, the development creates a harmonious connection between the built and natural environment.

The hotel complex is made up of seven individual lodges situated on four hectares in the middle of a pine forest. The design of the wooden huts was meant to create a “contrasting homology” with the natural landscape. Built on stilts, each of the structures has a large open-air balcony that allows for incredible views.

Further solidifying the close relationship with its environment, the wooden cabins were built with as many locally-sourced materials as possible. Maritime pine sourced from the surrounding Landes Forest was used to clad the buildings around a steel frame.

In addition to the beautiful setting, guests can enjoy an onsite restaurant and swimming pool, as well as local activities like golfing and surfing. There is also an orchard and plenty of open green space to enjoy a peaceful walk. The hotel is currently building an eco-friendly tree hut to view the beautiful area from a birds-eye view.