the mountains for superb views and walks. Even more exciting for our children was the Shafbergbahn – the oldest cog mountain railway in Europe. The antiquated wood-panelled carriages are shunted and heaved by a wheezing antique steam engine to the top

around five tonnes of the region’s annual 400-tonne production goes on sale. Whether it’s baked in tarts and cakes or going straight into the mouths of the many who turn out for La Fête de la Fraise, this is the ultimate celebration of the small red fruit

cake!” came to mind. Showcasing the talents of resident head pastry chef, Camille Lesecq, we were treated to a succession of delicate little cakes and tarts, candy-coloured macaroons, scones and jam, sweets…   Our suite at Le Meurice directly overlooked