Paris countryside immersion at your Sorbonne graduate teacher's
georgiana@paris-french-immersion.com
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Educational travel to Europe

Surroundings & Activities

Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse: a natural gem at the gateway of Paris

The Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park is one of the most beautiful countryside areas in France, offering vast, unspoiled forests and scenic landscapes. Located just outside of Paris, it’s a peaceful haven for Parisians looking to escape the city’s hustle. With its charming villages and lush greenery, it provides the perfect getaway while being only a short distance from the capital.Educational travel to Europe
Educational travel to Europe

Educational travel to Europe

Nestled in the heart of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Park, the town of Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse is a true gem for nature, history, and culture enthusiasts. Located about 30 kilometers southwest of Paris, with a direct connection to the french capital and the two Paris airports of Orly and Roissy Charles de Gaulle by direct public rail RER transport (no train changes), this charming commune offers an idyllic setting for unforgettable getaways Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse is one of the Chevreuse valley’s main gateways. As well as being an ideal base for exploring the park’s forests, hiking trails and picturesque villages, Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse is also well connected to Paris via the RER B, making it a popular destination for a green getaway while remaining close to the capital. In the Vallée de Chevreuse, a wide range of activities give students the opportunity to discover France from different angles and to practise their language skills in real-life situations, all while enjoying an enriching and enjoyable stay in a green setting on the outskirts of Paris.Educational travel to Europe
Educational travel to Europe

Your activities

To enrich the learning experience, activities are included in the immersion program, which you can choose from a variety of options, including outdoor, cultural, and culinary experiences, allowing you to experience French culture firsthand. These activities provide practical language application and cultural enrichment, enhancing the learning experience and fostering a deeper connection to the French language and lifestyle.

These activities not only provide practical language application but also offer cultural enrichment, making your immersion experience both educational and enjoyable. Most activities are free, but some activities, such as visits to museums or historical monuments with admission fees, may incur an additional charge.

Below  are some examples of activities that we can share together.

The Abbey of Port-Royal-des-Champs ↗

The Abbey of Port-Royal-des-Champs is an iconic historical site from the 17th century, known for its role in the development of Jansenism and education in France. Jean Racine, one of the greatest French playwrights, stayed at the abbey, where he found inspiration for some of his works.Educational travel to Europe

The Château de la Madeleine ↗

This 11th-century fortress, perched on a hill, offers a breathtaking view of the valley. It houses the Maison du Parc Naturel Régional, where visitors can learn more about the history and ecosystem of the region. Jean Racine oversaw part of the construction work, particularly the renovation of the keep.

Jean Racine

The « Jean Racine » path ↗

The Jean Racine path is a scenic trail that connects the Abbey of Port-Royal-des-Champs to the Château de Chevreuse. Jean Racine frequently walked this path to oversee construction at the château. Today, visitors can enjoy this historic route and appreciate the beautiful landscapes that inspired one of France's greatest writers.

The Marta Pan and André Wogenscky Foundation

This foundation in Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse showcases their 1950s house-studio and a sculpture garden with 18 works by Marta Pan. Wogenscky, a collaborator of Le Corbusier, and Pan, a celebrated sculptor, have left significant legacies. This site merges their residential and artistic lives for a rich cultural experience.

The Grataloup Museum

In the Saint-Saturnin Priory Chapel, showcases Grataloup's art and hosts contemporary exhibitions, conferences, and musical performances, making it a vibrant cultural venue.Educational travel to Europe

The Château de Dampierre

Designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, features formal gardens by André Le Nôtre and a recently restored interior. Open year-round, it offers guided tours showcasing its rich history.Educational travel to Europe

The Château de Breteuil

The Château de Breteuil, located near Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, is a magnificent castle steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore the elegant interiors of the castle, which has been inhabited by the same family for over 400 years. The estate also features charming gardens, including a maze and a rose garden, making it a delightful destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Raymond Devos House-Museum

Dedicated to the French humorist Raymond Devos, this house-museum allows visitors to dive into the artist's world through exhibitions and shows.

French immersion - Cheese platter

Local events

I can arrange for you to take part in local events such as markets, car boot sales and festivals to discover the local culture and practise the language in real-life situations

Tailored cultural and artistic experiences in Paris

The advantage of our location is that we are in the countryside while being close to Paris, with direct train connections: for art and theater enthusiasts, I can offer, upon request, insights into Paris' artistic and theatrical life, with visits to museums, concerts, and plays depending on the seasonal schedules. Feel free to share any cultural and/or linguistic interests with me by getting in touch. I would be happy to accommodate your requests!

Hiking and Cycling

The Chevreuse Valley is crisscrossed by numerous hiking and cycling trails, including the famous Chemin Jean Racine, a picturesque route that connects several historical and natural sites.

Hill Biking and Horse Riding

For thrill-seekers, mountain biking trails are available, and several equestrian centers offer horseback rides through the region's lush landscapes.

French immersion homestay in France

Water Activities

The region's ponds offer opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and other water activities, allowing visitors to enjoy the water in a preserved natural setting.

Golf

Near Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, the National Golf of Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines is one of the most renowned courses in France, having hosted the Ryder Cup in 2018.

Culinary discoveries

Visitors can also delight in local products, such as the region's goat cheeses and wines from the Chevreuse hillsides. Local markets, like the one in Chevreuse, offer an authentic experience where you can taste fresh and artisanal products. Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse and its surrounding valley invite you to explore, relax, and enjoy a rich blend of nature, history, and culture. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history buff, or a foodie, this region has something to offer for everyone.