Day Trip from Paris – French Food, Rural Experiences & Horses!

Exploring a Charming Day Trip from Paris: French Food, Rural Life & Horses

If you’re thinking about escaping the hustle of Paris for a taste of the countryside, this day trip offers an authentic glimpse into rural French living. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a gentle, immersive experience that combines rustic charm, farm activities, and delicious homemade cuisine. It’s ideal if you’re craving genuine local flavor without the touristy crowds, and if you enjoy nature, farm life, and relaxed paced days.

What really stands out here are the chance to connect with a host who lives off the land and the opportunity to enjoy a homemade, organic French meal in a peaceful setting. Plus, the proximity—just over an hour from Paris—means you can indulge in a countryside adventure without the long travel time. That said, it’s worth noting that transportation options vary, and if you’re not keen on coordinating your own logistics, the private transfer might be the best bet.

If you’re drawn to experiences that are friendly, authentic, and laid-back, this trip could be just right. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a deeper, more personal look at French rural life—beyond the typical sightseeing tour.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience with a local host living in a historic stone house.
• Hands-on activities like collecting eggs, feeding horses, and walking the animals.
• Delicious homemade meal featuring organic ingredients straight from the garden, with wine, cheese, and dessert.
• Small-group, personalized tour that offers insights and genuine interactions.
• Ideal for nature lovers and those interested in farm-to-table cuisine in a tranquil setting.
• Flexible transportation options include private transfer, train, or Uber, making it adaptable to different schedules and preferences.

An Overview of the Day Trip: What You Can Expect

This trip is carefully designed to be both relaxing and engaging, offering a mix of farm activities, scenic walks, and hearty French food. The main draw is Emilie herself—a teacher and naturopath—who welcomes guests into her 1700s stone house at the very end of a forest road in Bellot, a quiet village just an hour and a half from Paris.

Starting in Paris

Your day begins with a 9:30 am departure from Paris. You can choose a private driver, use Uber, or hop on a train—each option has its benefits depending on your budget and schedule. The recommended methods are straightforward, with the train costing just 2.5 euros, making it a budget-friendly choice, though Uber or private transfer offers added convenience. The address in Bellot will be provided after booking, making planning easier.

Arriving at Emilie’s House

Once in Bellot, you’re greeted by Emilie in her inviting old stone home. She’s a warm, knowledgeable guide who speaks excellent English, making it easy to ask questions or learn about her lifestyle. She lives peacefully with her family, two horses, and a friendly dog—an idyllic setup for those craving a slice of rural life.

Exploring the Garden & Learning about Plants

The highlight of the visit is a walk through Emilie’s garden, where she shares her expertise on herbs, vegetables, and plants from March through September. You’ll have the chance to collect eggs from the henhouse and visit her greenhouses during the warmer months, truly engaging with organic farming at its best. Many reviews highlight how passionate Emilie is about her garden, and her explanations add a personal touch to the experience.

Tasting French Cuisine & Wine

Next comes the moment many look forward to: the meal. Emilie prepares a traditional French lunch using ingredients mostly from her garden, complemented by local cheese, homemade dessert, and wine (including a glass of her own). The food is described as hearty, home-cooked, and authentic—more of a comforting homemade meal than a gourmet extravaganza, but full of flavor and local charm.

Interaction with the Horses

After lunch, you’ll have fun feeding Emilie’s horses and taking them for a walk in the paddock. This hands-on activity is a real highlight, especially for animal lovers. The horses are friendly, and the relaxed pace makes for a genuine farm experience that’s often praised for its authenticity.

A Walk in the Countryside

Finally, Emilie invites you for a peaceful walk in the surrounding countryside. It’s a chance to breathe in fresh air, enjoy the scenery, and hear stories about rural life. Several reviews mention how the experience feels like a visit to a good friend’s country home—relaxed, warm, and full of meaningful moments.

The Final Stretch and Return to Paris

By around 3 pm, you’ll head back to Paris, completing this roughly 7-hour adventure. The journey back gives you time to reflect on the day and soak in the countryside views—many travelers describe it as a calming, soul-refreshing experience.

Is it worth the price?

At around $121 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded package of farm activities, local cuisine, and scenic walks. Considering the personalized nature—small group or private options—plus the chance to enjoy truly homemade French food, it feels like good value. The inclusion of wine and the farm experience itself adds to the genuine feel of the trip.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This day trip is perfect if you’re looking for something authentic and laid-back. Foodies who want to taste homemade, organic French fare will appreciate the meal, while animal lovers will enjoy the farm interactions. It’s also suitable for travelers interested in sustainable living or those simply seeking a peaceful escape from Paris’s busy streets. Do keep in mind that the tour is centered around Emilie’s lifestyle, so it’s less about sightseeing and more about experiencing rural life firsthand.

Final Thoughts

This trip offers a genuine window into the slow-paced, farm-to-table world of French countryside living. It’s a peaceful, friendly experience that values simplicity and authenticity. The generous activities—like egg collecting, horse walking, and garden exploring—add a personal touch that many travelers find memorable.

While it isn’t a gourmet culinary tour, the homemade meal and wines strike a wonderful balance between rustic charm and comfort. Emilie’s warmth and knowledge make it clear why so many reviewers have left glowing feedback about their day here.

If you’re craving a quiet, authentic slice of rural France, this experience is likely to meet your expectations. Just be sure to plan your transportation ahead of time for the smoothest journey, and come ready to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of farm life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Transportation can be booked as an optional add-on with a private driver or van, including hotel pickup and drop-off. Otherwise, you can travel independently via train and Uber, or by using Uber Reserve up to 90 days in advance.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including travel time, farm visits, lunch, and the countryside walk.

Can I visit the greenhouses?
Yes, greenhouses are open from March to September, during which you can explore Emilie’s garden and learn about her plants and herbs.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While children are welcome and can participate in activities like egg collecting and horse feeding, the experience is generally relaxed and suitable for most ages, especially those who enjoy nature and animals.

What is included in the meal?
The meal comprises appetizers, a main dish made from garden produce, local cheese, a homemade dessert, and coffee or tea. You also get a glass of French wine and a glass of Emilie’s homemade wine.

Is the experience suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
While the menu is home-cooked and organic, specific dietary needs aren’t detailed, so it’s best to contact the provider in advance if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

What is the scenery like?
Expect peaceful countryside views, forested roads, and Emilie’s charming garden and greenhouse. The setting is very much about natural beauty and rural tranquility.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially if you want to secure transportation or join during peak seasons.

Final Word

This day trip from Paris offers a sincere taste of French farm life, combining delicious homemade food, farm activities, and scenic walks. Perfect for those seeking a slow-paced, authentic experience away from the city buzz, it’s a chance to connect with the land and learn from a passionate host. Whether you’re a foodie, animal lover, or just looking to unwind, this trip could be a memorable highlight of your Paris visit.