10 ideas for a romantic weekend near Paris

Love and romance are often associated with Paris, the city of love. But the beauty and magic of love are not limited to the capital. There are many destinations around Paris that offer idyllic settings for a romantic weekend. Here is a selection of ten ideas for a romantic weekend close to Paris, ranging from historic châteaux and gastronomic escapades to relaxing spa experiences in luxury hotels and sporting adventures.

1. Golf weekend at Château de l’Hermitage

Located in Condécourt, just fifty minutes from Paris, the Château de l’Hermitage is the ideal place for a golfing getaway. The estate boasts an 18-hole golf course offering breathtaking views of the surrounding green countryside. The elegance of the château, combined with the serenity of the golf course, makes for an unforgettable romantic experience.

After a day on the green, couples can enjoy a romantic dinner in one of the château’s gourmet restaurants, before retiring to one of the luxurious bedrooms. Each room is carefully decorated, combining old-world charm with modern conveniences to create an ambience of comfort and romance.

2. Discovery weekend with a visit to the Château Royal de Blois

The Château Royal de Blois is an unmissable destination for lovers of history and architecture. Located around two hours from Paris, this castle is a magnificent testimony to the architectural evolution from the feudal era to the Renaissance. Couples can explore the castle’s different wings, each reflecting the period in which it was built.

After a visit to the château, couples can stroll through the charming streets of Blois, discovering local craft shops and picturesque cafés. In the evening, they can enjoy a candlelit dinner in one of the town’s many restaurants, sampling local specialities while taking in the panoramic view of the illuminated château.

3. An old mill in Troyes

Troyes, famous for its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend. An old mill transformed into a charming hotel is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this medieval town. Couples can enjoy a tastefully decorated suite overlooking the River Aube.

The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Troyes on foot. Couples can stroll through the old town of Troyes, visit the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul cathedral and the Museum of Modern Art, or shop in the city’s famous factory outlets. In the evening, they can sample Champagne cuisine in one of the local gourmet restaurants.

4. Domme, gastronomy, architecture and nature

Domme, one of France’s most beautiful villages, is an ideal destination for a romantic weekend away. Situated in the Dordogne, three hours from Paris, this medieval village offers a unique blend of historical heritage, natural landscapes and gastronomy.

Couples can start their day with a stroll through the cobbled streets of Domme, admiring the 13th-century stone houses and the panoramic views over the Dordogne valley. For lunch, they can sample Périgord cuisine in one of the local restaurants. The afternoon can be devoted to a visit to the Domme caves or a trip on the Dordogne in a gabare.

5. Walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh at Auvers-sur-Oise

Auvers-sur-Oise, just an hour from Paris, is where Vincent Van Gogh spent the last months of his life and painted some of his most famous works. Couples can stroll the streets of the town, visit Van Gogh’s house and admire the landscapes that inspired the artist.

After a day of exploring, couples can spend the night in one of the village’s charming bed and breakfasts. Many of the houses offer breathtaking views of the landscape that inspired Van Gogh, allowing couples to immerse themselves in the artist’s world.

6. Relax in a hotel with spa on the banks of the Seine

What could be more romantic than a weekend of relaxation in a spa hotel on the banks of the Seine? Just an hour from Paris, couples can escape the stresses of everyday life and recharge their batteries in a peaceful, luxurious setting.

Couples can start their day with breakfast on the hotel terrace, overlooking the Seine. They can then take advantage of the hotel’s spa facilities, which typically include a sauna, hammam, swimming pool and jacuzzi. Massages and facials are also usually available for complete relaxation.

7. An escape game in Étretat

Étretat, famous for its impressive cliffs, offers a unique experience for couples looking for adventure and a challenge. As well as the natural beauty of the area, Étretat offers an outdoor escape game, where couples have to solve riddles to discover the town’s secrets over a weekend.

After the excitement of the escape game, couples can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Étretat. A walk along the cliffs offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape. To round off the day in style, a romantic dinner in one of the local restaurants is a must.

8. Walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh at Auvers-sur-Oise

Auvers-sur-Oise offers a second opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistic world of Van Gogh. This time, couples can visit the church at Auvers-sur-Oise, immortalised in one of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings. A walk along the Chemin des Peintres (Painters’ Path) will also reveal the places that inspired other artists, such as Daubigny and Pissarro.

The day can be rounded off with a visit to the Château d’Auvers, which offers an immersive experience into the world of Impressionism. In the evening, a dinner in one of the village’s restaurants allows you to savour the local cuisine while enjoying a view of the landscape that has inspired so many artists.

9. Champagne tasting in Reims

Reims, the capital of champagne, is a must-see destination for bubbly lovers. Just an hour from Paris, couples can spend a weekend discovering the secrets of champagne-making, visiting the cellars of famous houses and tasting different vintages.

As well as tasting champagne, Reims offers a wealth of culture and history. Couples can visit Reims Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France, as well as the Palais du Tau and the Basilique Saint-Remi. In the evening, they can dine in one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, where fine cuisine is often accompanied by champagne.

10. Take a hot-air balloon ride over the Château de Chenonceau

For a truly memorable experience, why not take a hot-air balloon ride over the Château de Chenonceau? Located around three hours from Paris, this is one of the most beautiful châteaux in the Loire Valley. A hot-air balloon flight offers a panoramic view of the château and surrounding gardens, creating an unforgettable romantic moment.

After the flight, couples can explore the château and gardens at their own pace, discovering the history and beauty of this exceptional site. To round off the day, a dinner in one of the estate’s restaurants is a must, where they can sample dishes made from local produce.

Each of these ideas offers a unique experience, allowing couples to reconnect and create precious memories. Whether it’s relaxing in a luxurious spa, walking in the footsteps of a famous artist, challenging each other in an escape game or enjoying a glass of champagne, these destinations near Paris offer plenty of opportunities for an unforgettable romantic weekend away.

The Baie de Somme, walks in a colourful garden, an ecolodge, a tree house – there’s no shortage of ideas for a romantic weekend near Paris.