When you live in Paris, you sometimes need to get away from the city on weekends and feel closer to nature. There are many nice places to visit around Paris. A day trip to Chantilly is definitely one of the easiest options.
Only 1 hour from Paris Gare du Nord by train, the town is within easy reach. Some of the events which are worth a visit include : the Grand Prix de Diane – when you can wear your most elegant hat at the top race of the year, the opening day at the racecourses and also the Journée des Plantes – one of the largest Flower Shows.
There is also a major site I highly recommend : Chantilly’s castle. Whether you have time to visit and admire the paintings or just wander around the park, the setting by the lake is quite stunning.
Chantilly is also surrounded by a large forest, where deers and wild boars are a common sight. Nearby, if you have a car or can take the bus, you should also visit the lovely medieval town of Senlis.
Cobblestoned streets, lovely cafés and a beautiful cathedral are part of the landscape, as well as a stunning old train station, which is unfortunately no longer in use.
Located in the heart of Senlis, the Porte Bellon restaurant serves local products and traditional dishes which are revisited by the Chef. The cellar was built in the 13th century and is open to customer for an “apéritif”.
The menu offers different options. The asparagus soup with a glass of rosé was an excellent choice, followed by various fish and meat based meals and a delicious moka cardamom mousse as a dessert.
The addresses :
Hippodrome de Chantilly, Avenue de la Plaine des Aigles, 60500 Chantilly
Château de Chantilly, 60500 Chantilly
Restaurant Porte Bellon, 51 rue Bellon 60300 Senlis
If you are into castles and interested in other castle options, I would definitely recommend to visit the Loire Valley region.