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:
Arboretum of Vallée-aux-Loups, the stunning free park in Hauts-de-Seine renowned for its remarkable trees
In Châtenay-Malabry, in the Hauts-de-Seine department, the Vallée-aux-Loups Arboretum offers 12.5 hectares of picturesque natural scenery just a short 15-kilometer drive from Paris. Best of all, entry is completely free, making it a perfect year-round escape into nature. [Read more]
In Chessy, a surprising walk in the Dhuys 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]
Discover Chevreuse: the Little Venice of the Yvelines and its lovely Petits Ponts walk
Just 40 minutes from Paris, Chevreuse, nicknamed the Little Venice of the Yvelines, offers a splendid stroll across its small bridges. This verdant setting, accessible by RER train, offers an unsuspectedly charming escape. We invite you to embark on a nature adventure between canals and picturesque paths! [Read more]
Stroll in Ile-de-France: from Paris, go vegetable picking by bicycle
Looking for adventure? The cycle route along the Canal de l'Ourcq is the perfect way to escape Paris by bike. On the program: a forest park, and, for those who want to continue, the possibility of picking fruit 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]
Les Étangs de Corot, the Ville-d'Avray hotel, restaurant and spa
Les Étangs de Corot is a 4-star hotel located in Ville-d'Avray in the Hauts-de-Seine department. To recharge your batteries and relax, come and discover this new Relais & Châteaux in its bucolic setting, which also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa and café. [Read more]
La Maison des Marronniers an idyllic and gourmet yoga retreat within easy reach of
Imagine a holistic place where you can take yoga retreats and disconnect without leaving the Paris region? La Maison des Marronniers is just such a haven, within easy navigational reach, where well-being and indulgence reign supreme. We take you on a tour of this unusual spot 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]
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]
