Chilling in Perche: My 2-Day, 1-Night Escape to Nogent-le-Rotrou, France
Nestled cosily in the charming Perche region, Nogent-le-Rotrou may be a small town, but it's packed with history, cool architecture, and amazing local food. Just a quick train ride from Paris, it's the perfect spot for a short break from the city vibes, where you can soak up the chill, French atmosphere.
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Nogent-le-Rotrou
Morning: Stepping Back in Time at Château Saint-Jean
Kick off your day with a visit to Château Saint-Jean, the icon of Nogent-le-Rotrou. This castle, dating way back to the 11th century, was home to the powerful Rotrou lords. Wander around the sturdy walls, ancient towers, and imagine life in the medieval days.
Inside the castle, you'll find the Musée du Perche. It showcases a bunch of cool stuff about the Perche region's history, culture, and traditions. Check out collections on farming, old-school crafts, local outfits, and precious archaeological finds.
Lunch: Tasting the Flavours of Perche
Grab lunch at a traditional restaurant in the town centre. The Perche region is famous for its top-notch farm produce. You gotta try the local specialities like Rillettes de porc (slow-cooked, shredded pork served with brown bread), Boudin noir aux pommes (blood sausage with sautéed apples), or Poulet au cidre (free-range chicken braised with apple cider and cream), so fragrant and flavourful!
Afternoon: Horse Riding Adventures and Local Delights
Experience horseback riding through the woods or along the scenic trails in the Perche countryside – a typical activity here. First-timers can sign up for a guided tour that's easy to handle.
Enjoy local food with Terrine de campagne (a yummy country pâté) or dishes made from Perche pork like grilled pork, ribs, or stews – all super popular. Try the Perche cider (cidre brut or doux), light and refreshing. Finish off your meal with traditional desserts like Tarte Tatin or Crème brûlée.
Day 2: Nature, Markets, and More
Morning: Exploring the Natural Beauty of Parc Naturel Régional du Perche
If the weather's good, spend the morning checking out the Parc Naturel Régional du Perche. You can hike along the trails through oak forests, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The park is known for its diverse ecosystem and charming villages.
If you're in Nogent-le-Rotrou on a Saturday, hit up the local market (usually around Place Saint-Pol or the main streets). It's a great chance to experience local culture and shop for fresh stuff straight from the farms, like Perche goat cheese, forest honey, plum jam, cider, and unique handmade goodies.
Find a nice spot in the park or by the Huisne River for a casual picnic lunch with the fresh market goodies.
Afternoon: Strolling Through History
Take a walk around the historic centre of Nogent-le-Rotrou. You'll be captivated by the little cobblestone streets and the old houses with their distinctive Perche architecture. Stop by a café, sip on a coffee, and watch the local life go by, or grab some souvenirs before heading home.
Good to Know
Getting There: You can get to Nogent-le-Rotrou by train from Montparnasse station (Paris) or by car.
Accommodation: Nogent-le-Rotrou has a few small hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs. Book ahead, especially if you're going during peak season.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer (April to September) are the best times to visit, with nice weather and lots of outdoor activities.
Have an awesome trip to Nogent-le-Rotrou!
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