Whether it is to break the routine or mark a break in your fast-paced Parisian life, you happen to be in need of a rest from time to time. Taking time to yourself, to relax, is essential to be calm. But you are probably saying you do not have the time for that and you are always postponing a break indefinitely.
And yet, the solution is obvious! Beyond the limits of the capital city, the Île-de-France region has lots of surprising treasures – often little-known – taking us to the middle of mind-blowing landscapes, as well as great places to relax. You get it, today, we are sharing the best spots to rest without having to leave the Parisian region. And some of these outings are easily accessible with public transportation, so you really have no excuse!
And stay tuned, if you feel like discovering more good deals to recharge your batteries in Île-de-France, this guide is updated accordingly. Do not hesitate to check it out again regularly!
The best places to rest without leaving the Paris area:
Discovery of Chevreuse: the Little Venice of the Yvelines and its Little Bridges Stroll
Chevreuse, known as the little Venice of the Yvelines, hides a sublime stroll of the small bridges, a real green setting at only 40 minutes from Paris and accessible by RER. We embark you for an adventure with unsuspected charm. [Read more]
Stroll in Ile-de-France: from Paris, go vegetable picking by bicycle
Looking for adventure? The bike path along the Ourcq canal allows you to escape Paris by bike. On the program: a forest park, and, for those who want to continue, the possibility of picking fruits and vegetables in Seine-et-Marne. On your marks, get set, pedal! [Read more]
Île Fanac in Joinville-le-Pont: green walks, canoeing, rowing and a gourmet barge
In Joinville-le-Pont, enjoy a quiet interlude on Île Fanac, discovering the elegant houses with pontoons. On the program: a stroll in a beautiful green setting, canoeing and rowing on the Marne and other nuggets to discover. [Read more]
La Maison des Marronniers an idyllic and gourmet yoga retreat within easy reach of
Imagine, a holistic place where you can do yoga retreats and disconnect without leaving the Île-de-France? La Maison des Marronniers is just that, a haven of peace within easy reach of your car, where well-being and gourmet pleasures reign. We take you to this unusual spot that awaits you in Essonne. [Read more]
A bucolic walk on the Impressionist Island in Chatou
A few stations away from Paris, by taking the RER A, make a stopover in the footsteps of the Impressionists in Chatou, for a pleasant stroll along the water. [Read more]
In Chessy, an astonishing walk through the Dhyus sculpture garden
Looking for nature and art? Head off to an undiscovered spot some forty kilometers from Paris, to discover original sculptures scattered across the landscape. [Read more]
Vallée-aux-Loups Arboretum: a Parisian escape among remarkable trees
You don't have to go to the farthest reaches of the Île-de-France to find majestic nature. Fifteen kilometers from Paris, the Arboretum du Domaine départemental de la Vallée-aux-Loups is a delight for lovers of gardens and plant species. [Read more]
La Maison Fournaise, the restaurant on the Ile des Impressionnistes in Chatou
La Maison Fournaise, the guinguette that inspired Renoir's "Déjeuner des canotiers", is reborn with a new decor, a new chef and a new menu. We're off to enjoy a bucolic break by the water. [Read more]