5 getaways for a weekend away from Paris
Whether you're dreaming of a waterfront mansion or a wilderness retreat
August 21st, 2024
If Paris is a city full of wonders, sometimes the desire to escape beyond its limits arises. To enjoy the beautiful days and treat yourself to a moment of relaxation just a few kilometers from the capital, we have discovered five exceptional places that promise an unforgettable weekend. From houses by the water, nature getaways, gourmet dining, and spas, these locations are the perfect allies to rejuvenate while enjoying an enchanting setting, far from the Parisian hustle and bustle.
D’une Île
Hidden in the lush hills of Perche, "D’une Île" is an enchanting retreat orchestrated by the expert hands of the founders of Septime. In this 18th-century hamlet lovingly restored, each house tells a story where authenticity meets modernity. The rooms, with their exposed beams and vintage furniture, invite tranquility, while the dining table highlights a seasonal cuisine crafted with local products. Here, every meal becomes a celebration of the earth, a return to basics orchestrated with simplicity and finesse, perfect for a bucolic escape far from the Parisian hustle.
L'Aunay, 61110 Rémalard
Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay
The Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay, nestled in the Chevreuse Valley, is a jewel of the 12th-century Cistercian era, transformed into a charming hotel under the direction of the Savry family. This former religious residence, with its raw stone walls and vast gardens, exudes serenity. The delicately renovated rooms offer breathtaking views of the park and lake, while the restaurant, housed in the former monk's dining hall, offers traditional French cuisine reinterpreted with a subtle modern twist. A majestic setting where every detail is designed to invite reflection and meditation, far from the city's hectic pace.
Domaine de l'Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay, 78720 Cernay-la-ville
Le Doyenné
Under the guidance of James Henry and Shaun Kelly, two Australian chefs who honed their skills in the finest Parisian kitchens, Le Doyenné stands out as a must-visit destination on the edge of the countryside. This 18th-century manor, surrounded by a vast permaculture garden, is a true flavor laboratory where the land and the plate become one. The locally grown produce is elevated in dishes that balance boldness and simplicity, with particular attention to seasonality. In this convivial atmosphere, Le Doyenné offers an inventive cuisine rooted in its terroir, where every bite is an ode to the surrounding nature.
5 Rue Saint-Antoine, 91770 Saint-Vrain
Le Barn
Just a few kilometers from Paris, in the idyllic setting of the Rambouillet Forest, Le Barn embodies the art of countryside living as envisioned by its founders Jean-Charles and Sandrine Roulleau. Set in a former farm, this unique hotel blends the rustic charm of barns with the contemporary touches of a refined design. The rooms, resembling cozy cocoons, invite relaxation, while the dining table focuses on simple and local cuisine, served in a sunlit greenhouse. Yoga at sunrise, horseback rides, or reading by the pond, Le Barn offers a peaceful rhythm of life where time seems to stretch infinitely, a true invitation to disconnect.
Le Moulin de Brétigny, 78830 Bonnelles
Loire Valley Lodges
In the heart of the Touraine Forest, the Loire Valley Lodges offer a unique experience envisioned by Anne-Caroline Frey. These treehouse cabins, designed as works of art, allow for a total immersion in nature. Each lodge, decorated by a contemporary artist, is a hymn to the fusion of art and nature, with stunning views of the canopy. In the evening, after a day spent exploring the forest or relaxing in the private jacuzzi, guests can savor a refined cuisine that highlights local products and regional wines. A luxurious and sensory escape where you reconnect with yourself in the absolute calm of the forest.
All. de la Duporterie entry by D85, 37320 Esvres-sur-Indre