Day Trip from Paris – French Food Experience in a Country House

Discover a Unique French Food and Heritage Tour Just Outside Paris

This day trip from Paris offers a delightful mix of culinary discovery, historical exploration, and local charm. For $119.81 per person, you spend about 6 hours visiting a 17th-century stone house in Mauperthuis, a peaceful hamlet by the river. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a multi-course French meal with wine, and plenty of opportunities to stroll through lush gardens and along medieval ruins. With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews, this experience stands out for its warmth, authenticity, and relaxed pace.

The hosts, Cosima and Frédéric, are not professional guides but passionate locals who warmly welcome guests into their home. Frédéric is a retired researcher, and Cosima is an artist and retired tour guide, which means you gain an insider’s perspective rather than a polished commercial presentation. The tour is ideal for those who appreciate authentic local encounters, delicious homemade food, and scenic countryside just a short journey from Paris.

Easy Access from Paris by Car or Train

Getting to the Mauperthuis countryside is straightforward and flexible. The tour departs from Paris at 10am, with options including a 55-minute private car transfer, Uber, or local train. The local train (P Line) from Gare de l’Est to Coulommiers costs just 2.5 euros and arrives around 9:17am, after which an Uber (about 20 euros one way) takes you to the village. Alternatively, a private driver or Uber Reserve can be booked for more convenience, with costs around 80 to 95 euros one way for a group of four.

The return trip departs around 3pm, bringing you back to Paris after an immersive experience. The short travel time makes this a perfect escape for a single day without the need for extensive planning or long travel hours, making it accessible for most visitors.

The Charm of Mauperthuis and Its Historic House

The central stop is Mauperthuis, where the hosts’ 17th-century stone house is located. Their timeless interiors and bamboo garden—which features 50 species—provide a picturesque setting for the day. You’re free to explore the interior of the house and art studio, gaining insight into Cosima’s artistic work.

Inside the house, guests can discover WWII shrapnel and WWI graffiti, offering a tangible connection to local history. The garden adds a tranquil backdrop to the experience, perfect for a leisurely stroll or for appreciating the natural surroundings. The house and garden are key highlights, showcasing a genuine slice of French countryside life.

French Lunch Paired with Local Wines, Cheese, and Coffee

One of the most celebrated parts of this tour is the lunch, where Cosima and Frédéric serve a 2-course French meal comprising a main dish, local cheese and bread, and dessert. There’s no pre-set menu—guests are surprised and encouraged to enjoy the homemade cuisine prepared by hosts passionate about traditional French food.

Included with the meal are one glass of wine, an apéritif with appetizers, and coffee or tea. This genuine gastronomic experience is recognized by UNESCO as part of France’s cultural heritage, making it a meaningful way to taste authentic homemade French flavors while enjoying good company.

Scenic Walks Along the River and Medieval Ruins

After lunch, the tour continues with a walk along the river led by your hosts. This route passes medieval ruins and the art studio, allowing guests to appreciate the historic landscape and local architecture. The walk provides a relaxed chance to digest the meal, take photos, and listen to stories about the area.

The medieval ruins add an element of historical intrigue, while the riverside scenery offers peaceful views of the countryside. The overall pacing is gentle, making it suitable for most mobility levels and those seeking a calming outdoor experience.

Meet Cosima and Frédéric: Local Hosts with Passion

The hosts are notable for their personal warmth and authenticity. Frédéric brings a background as a retired researcher, offering insights into the area’s history, while Cosima’s background as an artist and tour guide shines through her storytelling. Neither are hospitality professionals, which lends an informal, genuine tone to the encounter.

Their passion for their home and local culture shines through in how they explain the history, showcase their art studio, and share stories during the walk. Guests appreciate their unpretentious approach and effort to make everyone feel at home.

Practical Details and Flexibility in Transportation

Participants can choose to include round-trip transportation or travel independently. The “Transportation included” option features hotel pickup with a mid-range car or van, making logistics hassle-free. For those opting to go solo, detailed directions and transportation options are provided, including the use of Uber or local train.

Most travelers find the self-guided options manageable, provided they plan ahead. The local train option is affordable and simple, while Uber offers convenience, especially for groups or those with limited mobility. The tour is designed to be accessible and flexible depending on individual preferences.

Authentic, Not Commercial, Local Experience

Unlike many tours that rely on professional guides or commercial venues, this experience emphasizes authenticity. The hosts are ordinary citizens, sharing their home, garden, and stories. The focus is on local life and home-style cuisine, providing a genuine taste of French countryside living.

While the culinary experience is homemade and traditional, it’s not gourmet level but highly satisfying and rooted in local traditions. Guests should expect homemade food rather than haute cuisine, which aligns with the tour’s aim of offering an authentic, heartfelt experience.

Customer Satisfaction and High Ratings

With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews, this tour demonstrates strong customer satisfaction. Reviewers highlight the warmth of the hosts, the delicious meal, and the opportunities to walk and explore. The small group size and personal attention are frequently praised, making it a relaxed and intimate experience.

The only consideration noted is the need for pre-arranged transportation if not opting for the included transfer, which is straightforward but requires some planning.

Final Thoughts: A Genuine French Countryside Escape

This day trip from Paris offers a unique blend of culture, history, and gastronomy in a peaceful rural setting. The authentic hosts, delicious homemade meal, and scenic walks create a well-rounded experience that appeals to those seeking a quiet escape from the busy city.

While it’s not a gourmet culinary tour, the homemade French cuisine, local wines, and personal stories make this an enriching choice for food lovers, history buffs, and countryside enthusiasts. The flexible transportation options and small-group intimacy ensure a relaxed and personalized outing.

Anyone interested in authentic French life and delivering a memorable cultural experience will find this tour well worth the $119.81 price tag. It’s especially suitable for those who value genuine encounters over commercial spectacle and want a meaningful glimpse into local traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Transportation can be included as an option, with hotel pickup available via private driver, or you can arrange your own travel using the detailed directions provided.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time, house visit, lunch, and walks.

What is the menu like?
The lunch is a 2-course homemade French meal with main dish, cheese, bread, and dessert. There is no preset menu, and hosts surprise guests with their selections.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes one glass of wine, an apéritif, and coffee or tea.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, and an appetite for homemade French cuisine and scenic views.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
The walks are gentle, but some areas like the garden or house interior may require minor mobility.

What are the reviews like?
All reviews are 5-star, praising the warm hosts, delicious food, and authentic atmosphere.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 25 days in advance, so early planning is recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.