Paris day trip: eat with locals in a 17th-century house

A Unique Escape to France’s Past and Flavors

If you’re craving a break from the busy streets of Paris, this tour offers a peaceful slice of Ile-de-France life, just an hour away. For $164 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring a charming 17th-century stone house in a quiet hamlet called Mauperthuis. Guided by friendly hosts Cosima and Frédéric, this experience combines authentic home-cooked French food, local wine, and a stroll through lush bamboo gardens and historic ruins along the river.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see how local life persists beyond the city’s hustle—focusing on genuine hospitality, traditional cuisine, and beautiful natural surroundings. The house itself feels frozen in time, with traces of WWII graffiti and soldiers’ markings adding a layer of history that’s both touching and intriguing.

Of course, a potential consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan ahead—either by renting a car or booking a reliable Uber. But if you’re comfortable making your way out of Paris, this tour becomes a treasure of authentic moments and simple pleasures. It suits travelers who want a relaxed, personal experience away from tourist crowds, especially those interested in local food, history, and nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic French Hospitality: Enjoy warm welcomes from Cosima and Frédéric in a genuine 17th-century home.
• Authentic Cuisine & Local Wine: Savor a surprise two-course lunch paired with French wine, cheese, and coffee.
• Natural Beauty & History: Stroll through bamboo gardens, medieval ruins, and along the river, discovering traces of WWII.
• Intimate, Private Experience: Designed for private groups, couples, families, or friends seeking calm and connection.
• Flexible & Surprising Menu: No pre-set menu—be prepared for delightful culinary surprises, including making traditional crêpes in bad weather.
• Great for Authenticity Seekers: Ideal for those who appreciate local stories, history, and natural beauty over touristy attractions.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location and Accessibility

This tour takes you just 55 minutes from Paris, making it an easy day trip that feels worlds away from the city’s frenetic pace. The exact meeting point is at 12 Av. des Champs-Élysées, but transportation is your responsibility. Many choose Uber or Uber Reserve—recommended for convenience and comfort—expecting around €95 one way for a group of four. Alternatively, renting a car can give you flexibility, especially if you want to explore more of the countryside afterward.

The House and Its Surroundings

Upon arrival, you are welcomed into a 17th-century stone house that exudes timeless charm. Inside, you’ll feel as though no one has changed a thing in the last century. Cosima, an artist, and Frédéric, a retired researcher, have lovingly preserved this home, complete with WWII shrapnel and soldiers’ graffiti—reminders of the house’s long history.

Outside, the bamboo garden is a real highlight, hosting about 50 species. It’s a tranquil space perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or simply soaking in the peaceful countryside. The hosts often walk guests around the garden, sharing their love for plants and nature.

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The Tour Itinerary and Highlights

The experience begins with a warm welcome apéritif, featuring a glass of French wine and some appetizers. From there, you move into the main event: a two-course French meal. The menu isn’t pre-set, so you’ll enjoy a surprise that showcases local, everyday cuisine—not gourmet or Michelin-star level, but hearty and authentic.

The meal includes a main course with salad, followed by a dessert, paired with local wine and finished with coffee. A cheese platter is also part of the experience, giving you a taste of regional products.

After lunch, Cosima might show you her art studio, giving insight into her creative process. Then, you’ll take a leisurely walk with your hosts along the river, passing by medieval ruins—remnants of historic structures that tell stories of centuries gone by.

Additional Activities and Cultural Touches

In colder months or rainy weather, the hosts invite guests to make traditional French crêpes, adding a hands-on culinary activity that everyone enjoys. This flexibility makes the experience not just about eating but about participating in the local culture.

What Visitors Say

Reviewers praise the warm hospitality and delicious, simple food that truly reflects home-cooked French cuisine. One notes, “We loved the way the hosts shared stories and made us feel like friends visiting their home,” while others appreciated the quality of the wine and the serene gardens. The fact that it’s a private group allows for an intimate, personalized experience.

Value and Practical Tips

At $164, this tour offers a value-packed glimpse into authentic French life. Considering the personalized attention, the home-cooked meal, and the scenic strolls, it’s a refreshing change from more commercialized food tours. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with no rush—perfect for those who want to savor every moment.

Since transportation isn’t included, plan ahead—either book an Uber well in advance or rent a car if you’re comfortable driving. The hosts are fluent in French and speak some English (about 7/10), so brushing up on basic French phrases will help you connect more.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who love authentic local encounters and are eager to discover French countryside and cuisine away from crowded tourist spots. It’s especially well-suited for couples, families, or small groups seeking a peaceful, meaningful day. If you’re curious about history, art, and natural beauty, this tour will satisfy your interests.

A Final Word

This day trip offers a rare chance to step inside a piece of history and experience French hospitality firsthand. You’ll leave with full stomachs, new stories, and a sense of connection to local life. It’s a perfect antidote to the hustle of Paris—quiet, personal, and full of surprises.

For anyone longing for an authentic, peaceful retreat with delicious food and welcoming hosts, this tour is not to be missed. It’s an opportunity to slow down, breathe in nature, and enjoy genuine cultural exchange.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You can take an Uber or rent a car to reach the house in Mauperthuis, about 55 minutes from Paris.

What is the best way to get there?
Using Uber or Uber Reserve is highly recommended, especially if you want a hassle-free experience. Alternatively, renting a car offers flexibility and might be cost-effective if you’re traveling with others.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, starting around 11 am and returning to central Paris by early afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a welcome drink with appetizers, a two-course meal with wine and cheese, coffee, and access to the bamboo garden, house, and studio. Strolls around the river and ruins are part of the experience.

Can I expect a set menu?
No, the menu is a surprise, reflecting typical local French cuisine. In bad weather, you might get to make crêpes instead.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, families are welcome, but keep in mind that the setting involves walking outdoors and inside historic buildings—so wear comfortable shoes and be mindful of young children’s safety.

Are there language barriers?
The hosts speak English reasonably well (around 7/10), and Cosima speaks Spanish fluently. Basic French phrases can enhance your experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is best. Avoid high heels and indoor smoking, as the house is a private residence with a relaxed atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad?
The hosts will invite you to make traditional crêpes if the weather prevents outdoor activities, so you’ll still enjoy a warm, memorable experience.

Who should avoid this tour?
People with mobility impairments might find it difficult because of uneven surfaces and historic stairs. The experience is best suited for those comfortable walking and standing.

This day trip from Paris offers a wonderfully genuine taste of French countryside life. If you’re eager to experience local hospitality, beautiful gardens, historical relics, and an authentic home-cooked meal, it’s a charming way to spend a day. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to slow down and relax, this private tour promises a memorable escape from the city’s crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: