The walk into the forest is taken literally here. Thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, the Hotel des Horlogers not only offers numerous panoramic views of the surrounding sea of spruce trees, you will also come across sculptures made of branches and oversized truffles. The Horloger’s culinary table takes you a little deeper into the forest. Guests are even invited to take off their shoes to feel the moss and wood shavings on the ground with their bare feet.
There are tree slices and pine cones on the table and the five-course carte blanche menu by top chef Emanuel Renaut is based on ingredients from the forest. The fish comes from the surrounding lakes, the meat and cheese are local, the vegetables are from the garden and the bread and chocolate are homemade. Two to ten guests gather around a large table three evenings a week to indulge in this special experience with all their senses. The picturesque surroundings are a source of inspiration: the Swiss valley, which is famous for its watchmakers, is surrounded by the almost mystical Risoud forest.
Tell us about the forest, Mr Emmanuel Renaut
What fascinates you about the forest?
The richness of nature, which gives me inspiration for putting together the restaurant’s menu.
How do you feel when you are surrounded by trees?
I can recharge my batteries in the tranquillity of the forest. It creates a real connection with nature and with yourself.
What was the best thing you ever experienced in the forest?
Encountering the animals that live there: deer, stags, chamois. It’s always magical to see them.
What happens when strangers eat together at the same table?
All the couples who have met here over dinner so far have had things in common – and by the end of their culinary stroll through the forest, they have become friends.
Which dishes and drinks are typical for the menu?
All our dishes vary according to the season and surprise our guests time and time again. When it comes to drinks, we have a signature cocktail, the Kir Sapin – a local version of the Kir Royal, with or without alcohol.
Which ingredients from the forest can be found on the plates?
Wild garlic, chives, flowers, young fir buds, mushrooms … We are lucky to have many ingredients here that we can vary in many different ways.
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