Paris Day Trip: Eat With Locals in a 17th-Century House

Indulge in a captivating day trip from Paris to the charming village of Mauperthuis. Discover an authentic 17th-century house where you’ll savor a delightful two-course French lunch, accompanied by local wines and warm hospitality. Explore the historic home, stroll through a serene bamboo garden, and learn about the serene ambiance of this picturesque destination. This immersive culinary and cultural experience promises to transport you beyond the bustling streets of Paris and into a world of timeless elegance and delectable flavors.

Key Points

• Enjoy a 6-hour day trip to a 17th-century house in Mauperthuis, located 50 minutes from Paris, where you’ll be hosted by local couple Cosima and Frédéric.
• Indulge in a two-course French lunch featuring a main course, salad, dessert, wine, cheese, and coffee, with the opportunity to explore a bamboo garden and historic house.
• Experience an authentic, personalized culinary adventure with surprises from the hosts, who emphasize local flavors and traditional French cuisine, including seasonal specialties like crêpes.
• Transportation options include UBER or rental car, though the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues due to limited accessibility in the village.
• Enjoy the charming rural setting and engage with the hosts, who provide a warm, comfortable atmosphere and share their knowledge of the local culture and history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Details

This Paris day trip allows visitors to eat with locals in a charming 17th-century house just outside the city.

Priced at $141.38 per person, the 6-hour experience includes a welcome drink, a two-course French lunch with wine and dessert, a stroll through a bamboo garden, and exploration of the historic house.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot and pay later.

However, the trip isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, as transportation isn’t included and the village has limited accessibility.

Itinerary and Highlights

The Paris day trip begins at 12 Av. des Champs-Élysées, where guests then travel for 50 minutes by car to the charming village of Mauperthuis.

Upon arrival, visitors enjoy a welcome drink with appetizers.

They’re then treated to a two-course French lunch featuring wine, cheese, dessert, and coffee.

After the meal, guests can stroll through a bamboo garden boasting 50 species and explore the historic house, which bears traces of WWII and WWI.

The experience concludes with a return to the starting location on the Champs-Élysées.

Culinary Experience

Although the Paris day trip provides a gourmet-level culinary experience, it doesn’t feature a pre-set menu. Instead, guests can enjoy surprises from the hosts, Cosima and Frédéric.

The experience includes:

• A welcome drink with appetizers to start the meal

• A two-course French lunch with a main course, salad, and dessert

• A glass of French wine, local cheese, and coffee to accompany the meal

In the fall and winter, guests can also look forward to making traditional French crêpes as part of the culinary activities.

Transportation and Accessibility

Transportation to the 17th-century house in Mauperthuis where the culinary experience takes place is not included in the tour price. Visitors have a couple options to get there:

| Transportation Option | Approximate Cost |

| — | — |

| Use UBER | 95 euros one way for 4 people |

| Rent a Car | 150 euros for 2 days during peak season |

However, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments as the village and house are not fully accessible. Comfortable clothing is recommended, and smoking is prohibited indoors. Overall, guests should plan their transportation and accessibility needs accordingly for a seamless day trip experience.

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Hosts and Environment

Cosima, an artist and retired tour guide, and Frédéric, a retired researcher, host the culinary experience at the 17th-century house in Mauperthuis.

They offer:

• English proficiency rated 7/10, with Cosima also speaking Spanish (10/10) and German (7/10)

• A village beauty rating of 7/10, where visitors can explore historical traces like WWII shrapnel and WWI graffiti

• A comfortable environment that recommends casual clothing and avoids high heels and smoking indoors.

Guests can expect a warm, authentic experience hosted by knowledgeable locals in a charming rural setting.

Exploring the 17th-Century House

Nestled in the charming village of Mauperthuis, the 17th-century house that hosts this culinary experience offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Visitors can explore the home’s historical traces, including World War II shrapnel and World War I graffiti, providing a tangible connection to the past.

The bamboo garden surrounding the house boasts over 50 species, inviting guests to stroll through its lush greenery.

Cosima and Frédéric, the knowledgeable hosts, share stories about the home’s heritage, adding depth to the culture.

This blend of gastronomy and history creates an unforgettable experience for participants.

Historical Traces and Artifacts

As guests explore the 17th-century house, they’ll uncover a wealth of historical artifacts and traces that provide a tangible link to the past.

Among the intriguing discoveries are:

• Shrapnel from World War II, a stark reminder of the turbulent times that once engulfed the region.

• Graffiti scrawled by World War I soldiers, offering a glimpse into the daily lives and experiences of those who passed through the house during the conflict.

• Architectural elements and furnishings that bear the marks of centuries, inviting visitors to imagine the stories and events that have unfolded within these walls over the generations.

Taking in the Serene Village

After the hustle and bustle of the city, guests are invited to enjoy the serene charm of the village.

Mauperthuis offers a peaceful respite, with its 50 species of bamboo lining the meandering paths and the medieval ruins dotting the landscape. Visitors can stroll through the tranquil gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic setting.

The comfortable, casual atmosphere allows guests to fully embrace the local way of life, with a chance to explore the house and uncover its wartime relics.

This idyllic village setting provides the perfect backdrop for an authentic French culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Event?

The dress code is comfortable clothing. Visitors should avoid high-heeled shoes and smoking indoors. The event takes place in a 17th-century house, so casual, practical attire that allows easy movement is recommended.

Can We Take Photos and Videos During the Experience?

Photography and videography are generally allowed during the experience. However, guests should be respectful and avoid disturbing the hosts or other participants. It’s best to ask the hosts for their preferences upon arrival.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Dietary Options Available?

The hosts offer vegetarian and other dietary options upon request. They’ll accommodate your needs to ensure you have an enjoyable culinary experience. Just let them know about any special requirements when booking.

Is There a Minimum/Maximum Group Size Requirement?

The experience doesn’t have a minimum or maximum group size requirement. Visitors can book individually or in groups, though the intimate nature of the experience suggests it’s best suited for small groups of 2-4 people.

Can We Extend Our Stay in the Village After the Event?

Guests can’t extend their stay after the event. The package is a 6-hour day trip, and transportation options back to Paris are provided at the end. Extending the visit would need to be arranged separately with the hosts.

The Wrap Up

This day trip from Paris to Mauperthuis offers a delightful blend of authentic French cuisine, charming 17th-century ambiance, and an immersive cultural experience. Guests can savor a delicious two-course lunch, explore a beautiful bamboo garden, and discover the historic home’s rich history, all while interacting with warm hosts Cosima and Frédéric. It’s an ideal way to escape the city and take in the tranquil village atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby