Be lulled by birdsong, take time to admire the leaves twirling in the wind, explore charming villages... While the whole world dreams of Paris, Parisians often dream of a well-deserved bucolic break. Located to the east of the capital, Seine-et-Marne is the ideal place to recharge your batteries. Easily accessible for family get-togethers or team-building trips, it's packed with exotic spots, characterful little towns and refreshing walks. Discover 10 things not to miss in this department rich in nature and history!
Be lulled by birdsong, take time to admire the leaves twirling in the wind, explore charming villages... While the whole world dreams of Paris, Parisians often dream of a well-deserved bucolic break. Located to the east of the capital, Seine-et-Marne is the ideal place to recharge your batteries. Easily accessible for family get-togethers or team team getawaySeine-et-Marne is full of exotic spots, charming villages and refreshing walks. Discover 10 things not to miss in this department rich in nature and history!
1- The forest of Fontainebleau, a natural paradise
Let's start this top in style. The largest forest in the Île-de-France region (and 2nd largest in France!), Fontainebleau has it all. This immense forest is a veritable jewel of greenery. As you stroll along its paths, you'll quickly understand why the kings of France made it their hunting ground. With its large boulders, ponds, moors and stretches of sand, this royal land is sure to impress. Not much for hiking? Or are you looking for a fun team-building activity activity outdoors? Fontainebleau is a dream destination for outdoor climbing. The more adventurous among you will have a blast exploring the various climbing sites.
For lovers of the past, the forest of Fontainebleau is home to a historic gem. Having welcomed 34 kings and 2 emperors, its castle is perfect for a cultural break. Follow in the footsteps of its blue-blooded inhabitants as you explore this superb royal palace!
Practical info
Open every day except Tuesday
Prices between €12 and €14
Easily accessible by train (Fontainebleau-Avon station), or an hour's drive from Paris
3- Barbizon, a charming artists' village
Not far from Fontainebleau nestles the pretty village of Barbizon. Bucolic and artistic, it's the perfect escape from the urban hustle and bustle. It's as much a place to come for its charming alleyways and beautiful houses as for its art-laden history. Barbizon was once a meeting place for Impressionist painters. This rich heritage can be felt around every corner. In fact, their works are on display in numerous museums and inns.
This emblematic place is perfect for spending a day between art and nature. Stroll through its charming cobbled streets and visit the Musée des peintres de Barbizon to admire works from the past century. Who knows, maybe it will awaken a creative flame in you! Click here for museum opening times and prices.
Another château? Yes, but not just any castle. The one at Vaux-le-Vicomte has a very interesting history. Its beauty and elegance are said to have influenced the architecture of châteaux all over the globe.
Including Versailles, for better or for worse... This historical anecdote sounds like something straight out of a soap opera. We can't resist telling it to you. Let's go back a few centuries, when the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte belonged to Fouquet, minister to the young King Louis XIV. To impress the Sun King, Fouquet invited him to stay at Vaux-le-Vicomte. It was a bad idea that cost him a lifetime's imprisonment. Humiliated and jealous that one of his ministers was living in such luxury and beauty, Louis XIV simply decided to arrest Fouquet. He then commissioned his architects to build the Château de Versailles, using Vaux-le-Vicomte as a model.
Come and breathe in the scent of luxury and betrayal as you stroll through this place filled with history!
The fortified medieval town of Provins takes visitors on a journey back in time. Visitors aged 7 to 77 will be blown away by the medieval atmosphere of this unique place. A great idea for families with children, or even for a fun afternoon out with friends or colleagues. Take a leap back in time, just an hour from Paris!
In autumn, don't miss a taste of niflette, the local sweet speciality. You'll fall under the spell of this dessert with custard and orange blossom.
6 - Medieval sweets tasting at Moret-sur-Loing
Who would have thought that Île-de-France was home to so many medieval villages? The wonderfully preserved architecture of Moret-sur-Loing will not leave you indifferent. In addition to its historic center and half-timbered houses, the village is bordered by the beautiful waters of the Loing, a soothing river that welcomes canoes and paddles. Perfect for team-building aquatic activities, or just having fun with friends!
The city is also famous for its barley sugar. Don't forget to honor this French sweet, said to be the oldest in the country. According to historians, it was also Napoleon's favorite treat!
7 - Find your spiritual feline at Lumigny Safari
Hold on to your hats: the Lumigny Safari has the greatest diversity of felines in one geographical location IN THE WORLD. In addition to holding this record, it is home to a total of over 600 animals, belonging to almost 100 species. Who wouldn't want to take a safari just outside Paris? A change of scenery guaranteed! Take a look at thepark opening timesto plan your visit.
8 - Immerse yourself in the past at the Musée de la Grande Guerre
Located in Meaux, this museum sheds light on one of the world's most important conflicts. You don't need to be a history buff to appreciate this cleverly designed museum. Statues, objects and machines help young and old alike to better understand the First World War. It's a welcome change from castles and chateaux... And who knows, you might even learn a few anecdotes that will make you shine in society!
Do you know the most visited place in France? We'll give you a minute to think. The Eiffel Tower? Notre-Dame-de-Paris? Wrong. The place that attracts the most visitors is... Disneyland Paris theme park. Every day, hundreds of people come here for a day filled with magic, loops, shows and high-carb meals. Make way for dreams by visiting Europe's most magical park! Whether you're looking for a family day out, or an original original team-building activityDisney has something for everyone, aged 7 to 77!
Practical info :
Easily accessible by car and RER from Paris (Marne-la-Vallée Chessy station)
Add a little gastronomy to your stay in Seine-et-Marne by taking the Brie cheese route. Did you know that Seine-et-Marne has two AOP cheeses? Brie de Meaux and Brie de Melun. Head to Jouarre to visit the Ganot cheese dairy and explore its maturing cellars. Then continue on your way through the region's pretty dairy farms. For more information on this gourmet tour, consult thecomplete Brie Cheese Route itinerary.
Did you know? Charming residences La Prairieand Maison Moutier are both ideally located in Seine-et-Marne. Contact us to rent these oases of greenery for your business trip, a getaway with friends or a family vacation!
