We know that you never tire of the charm of the Parisian streets, and no one can change your mind; the Haussmannian buildings are among the most beautiful in the world. But discovering the charm of the past, I mean, the REALLY PAST, nearby Paris but in the heart of small villages full of treasures, that surely deserves a little detour, right? Come on, let's explore the region and guarantee ourselves a well-deserved journey through time…
Moret-sur-Loing
On the edge of the Fontainebleau forest, southeast of Paris, lies a charming little medieval town that’s definitely worth the trip. You’ll feel immersed in nature here: the old town is bordered by the Loing, where you can enjoy long, relaxing walks after visiting the church, the fortified gate, and the old bridge. A town of water, a town of history, a town of artists, Moret-sur-Loing is also known for the stay of the Impressionist painter Alfred Sisley.
g> and its candy canes, which were adored by Napoleon, Jean Jaurès, and Sarah Bernhardt!See this post on Instagram
Provins
Provins is timeless, known and loved by many, and that’s why it had to be on this list. This ancient capital of the Counts of Champagne, cherished by visitors, is located just an hour's drive from Paris and boasts a rich UNESCO World Heritage-listed heritage. Yes, this town knows how to shine!
Welcome! You can't miss the César Tower and the beautifully preserved medieval dungeon that overlooks the city. After admiring the view from above, head towards the thick ramparts, marked by massive stone gates, and then to the legendary "granary of tithes."With a bit of luck, your visit may coincide with the medieval-themed events organized frequently by the town. You'll walk in the footsteps of Clovis…
Saint-Quiriace, Provins, France pic.twitter.com/sFfoESDJ2c
— 🏛Architectolder (@Architectolder) April 12, 2021
Crécyl a-Chapelle
Located less than an hour's drive from Paris, Crécyl a-Chapelle, also known as the "Venice of the Briard," is a lovely little spot that beautifully blends waterways and scenery. You'll be able to admire its medieval church in Gothic style, the Notre-Dame collegiate church, its charming stone bridges over the Grand Morin, the ancient fortifications, the historic washhouses, its mills, and delightful buildings that are centuries old… A true escape is guaranteed in this artistic town, which has also served as a backdrop for many TV series, like Un Village Français (it's maybe our version of Plus Belle la Vie, with a touch of nostalgia…).
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Troyes
Stop frowning: it's just a 2.5-hour drive, totally easy! Especially when you’re heading to visit Troyes, the historic capital of Champagne with its exceptional heritage from the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the industrial era! There are half-timbered civil architecture, charming little cobblestone streets, stained glass windows, nine classified churches, and so many museums you won't be able to count them all: whether you're discovering or revisiting for fun, it’s a 4-day weekend, so let’s indulge in EVERYTHING!
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Senlis
Medieval city? Even better: royal city! Relatively unknown, Senlis is home to an exceptional historical heritage. It’s here that Hugh Capet was crowned king of France in 987. There you go. Now you can impress everyone while visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral and its Gothic sculptures, wandering through its cobblestone streets, exploring its ancient ramparts, all the way to the Saint-Vincent Abbey. Yes, you guessed it, the must see is definitely the royal castle, which dates back a thousand years but still boasts many well-preserved features. A visit worthy of the queen or king that you are, after all!
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