My Husband and I, both 65, are interested in flying into Paris ahead of our scheduled Viking River cruise to Normandy. We were thinking that a train ride to a charming village or town an hour or two from Paris might be possible. Any suggestions on towns and places to stay (no commercial hotels, we prefer small rustic inns or B&B's) would be appreciated. We've been to Paris as a side trip for three days but never left the city. We are fit and love to hike and would prefer an immersive experience outside of the city for a couple of days possibly three. Many thanks in advance.
Posted by
Paris
10512 posts
Hi, what time of year is your cruise ?
Posted by
Colorado Mountains, USA
8096 posts
Southwest of Paris is Amboise, in the heart of (a different river) the Loire River Valley. The valley is full of mansion/castle Châteaux, like Chenonceau and Chambord, which we visited on rented bikes many years ago. The area is walkable, although I don’t have specific hikes to recommend. Amboise itself has the Château of Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last years at the invitation of King Francis I, and full-scale models of many of his inventions are on the grounds. We stayed at a B&B, but it’s been so long since we were there that I don’t have the name.
In the opposite direction, northeast of Paris is the Champagne region. It’s hilly, so would offer some walking/hiking. We were there on another bike trip, even longer ago, and stayed in Reims, but Epernay is another town that should be visited in the area.
Posted by
Twin Cities, Minnesota
2095 posts
Last trip to France I took the train to Chartres. The cathedral is stunning, there were some great restaurants and shops AND the historic area by the river is charming. There are a couple more old churches that I found and the Sat market was really wonderful. A regional train leaves frequently from Montparnasse station. If you can stay overnight, the after dark lumiere of major buildings is fantastic. If you like to hike the walk from the Cathedral down to the river is pretty steep and there are interesting old buildings along the way. You'll get your exercise on your way back up!