4 places to go green near Paris

  • 2 June 2025
  • News
Looking for a breath of fresh air to get away from it all? There's no need to go to the other side of the world: less than five hours from Paris, some magnificent natural regions await you for a rejuvenating getaway. Authentic countryside, unspoilt forests, wild seasides or romantic châteaux, here are 5 perfect destinations for going green in 2025, easily accessible by car or train.
discover the castle of hautefort in Dordgone
discover the castle of hautefort in Dordgone

1. Le Perche: a rural escape just 2 hours from Paris

Nestling between the Orne and Eure-et-Loir departments, the Perch is the perfect haven for lovers of nature and rural heritage. This undiscovered region, just two hours from Paris, boasts rolling countryside, deep forests such as the Réno-Valdieu forest, and typical villages with half-timbered houses. Here, time seems to stand still: stroll through the narrow streets of Bellême, Mortagne-au-Perche or Rémalard, visit the manor houses hidden along the way and savour the local gastronomy in the welcoming farmhouse inns.

The Perche is also an ideal destination for outdoor activities: hiking, horse-riding along the sunken lanes or cycling along the Voie Verte du Perche, you can discover the region at your own pace. To extend the nature experience, treat yourself to an unusual night in a perched hut or yurt in the heart of the woods.

2. The Loire Valley: châteaux, vineyards and bike rides

Accessible in less than two hours by train from Paris, the Loire Valley is a harmonious landscape shaped by man and nature. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is famous for its sumptuous châteaux, but it is also a fantastic playground for those who dream of an active and peaceful holiday.

By bike, along the route The Loire by bikeYou'll cycle safely through vineyards, flower-filled meadows and small wild islands. Stop off at wine estates to taste the region's famous wines (Vouvray, Chinon), or picnic in the gardens of the châteaux of Amboise, Chaumont-sur-Loire or Villandry. For a complete immersion experience, opt for charming accommodation: bed and breakfasts in historic mansions or eco-lodges on the banks of the river.

3. The Morvan: the wild authenticity of green Burgundy

Situated in the heart of Burgundy, just over 3 hours from Paris, the Morvan Regional Nature Park is the destination of choice for those seeking direct contact with nature. There's no mass tourism here: just tranquil lakes, wooded hills, endless hiking trails and small, unspoilt villages.

Set off on an adventure around the Lac des Settons or the Lac de Pannecière Swimming, paddling, canoeing, fishing... Each activity is an invitation to reconnect with what's essential. When it comes to heritage, the Morvan is also full of surprises: Romanesque churches, the Celtic remains of Mont Beuvray and rural museums tell the story of an authentic region. Let yourself be seduced by the warm welcome of the locals and the wealth of local culinary delights, including farmhouse cheeses, forest honey and traditional charcuterie.

4. The Baie de Somme: iodine breath and vast horizons

Just 2h30 from Paris, the Somme Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in the world, a unique natural setting between land and sea. This immense landscape, changing with the tides, is a paradise for lovers of nature and wide open spaces. At low tide, the bay can be explored on foot during guided crossings; at high tide, it is ideal for kayaking or boat trips.

Birdwatchers will be delighted at the Parc du Marquenterre, where more than 300 species of migratory birds stop over every year. For a complete change of scenery, take a horse or carriage ride along the endless beaches. As for the villages, Saint-Valery-sur-Somme and Le Crotoy offer pretty flower-lined lanes, terraces overlooking the bay and tasty seafood. An ideal place to take a deep breath and slow down.

5. The Périgord Noir around Hautefort: nature, history and gastronomy

A little further away, but accessible in less than 5 hours by car or TGV, the Black Perigord is a land of nature and tradition, well worth a visit. The landscapes of thick forests, tranquil valleys and blonde stone villages create a gentle, soothing atmosphere, perfect for a rejuvenating break.

At the heart of this region, a visit to the Hautefort Castle is a must. A masterpiece of classical architecture, it overlooks a sumptuous panorama and offers a unique experience: richly decorated lounges, temporary and permanent exhibitions, and a wealth of other attractions. formal gardens sublimate this place steeped in history. After your visit, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area: the Tourtoirac cave, Thenon's gourmet markets or the hiking trails winding through fields and forests. The Dordogne is also a land of gastronomy, where foie gras, truffles, walnuts and regional wines enrich every moment of your escapade.

Also read on the blog

Discover the Hautefort estate

Parks and châteaux to visit in the Dordogne

Restaurant & shop

Discover our new restaurant, relax in the shop and take home an authentic Hautefort souvenir!

Daily entertainment

Every day, Château de Hautefort strives to give you the best possible insight into its history. That's why your admission ticket includes a guided tour of the...

The English-style grounds of the château

The English park was born in the 18th century under the influence of philosophers and artists such as the poet Alexander Pope, who advocated a return to nature.

The formal gardens of Château de Hautefort

Hautefort has had formal gardens since the 17th century. These were redeveloped over the following centuries to give way to a...

Hautefort Castle in the heart of the Dordogne

Château de Hautefort, the jewel in the crown of Périgord, boasts a rich history and grandiose architecture. In 2025, the Fondation du chât...

An exceptional architectural and natural heritage

  • Château de Hautefort, 1 esplanade du château 24390 Hautefort
  • 05 53 50 51 23
  • Every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

find each other

  • Château de Hautefort, 1 esplanade du château 24390 Hautefort
  • 05 53 50 51 23
  • Every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Access to the castle

  • 2025 / Château de Hautefort