Day Trip from Paris - French Food, Rural Experiences & Horses!

If you’re looking to experience the purest form of nature-bound living in France, Emilie’s NokNok stay is an absolute hidden gem you shouldn’t miss! This experience completely redefined my idea of what life can be like—Emilie is a true artist of living. She has carved out a little paradise for herself in the heart of nature: a lush garden full of vegetables and fruits she planted by hand (they hadn’t ripened when I visited, but the greenery alone was enchanting!), homemade strawberry jam (so rich and fragrant that supermarket versions don’t even come close), free-range hens full of personality, and an unbelievably gentle horse I’ll never forget. It was so relaxed that it nearly fell asleep as we stroked its back and gently rubbed its mouth—almost like it could sense our kindness. We made flatbreads together, smelled the aromatic herbs in her garden (like a natural spa), and talked about French culture. But the most precious part was the deep sense of harmony between people and nature. Growing up in the city, I touched real soil for the first time and finally understood what it means when people say, “This is how life is meant to be.” If you’re yearning for a break from the noise and want to experience rural France like a friend rather than a tourist, don’t think twice—just book Emilie’s NokNok experience. It’s more than a trip; it’s a soul-soothing journey that awakens all five senses.

It was January, it was cold outside. What a pleasure to be welcomed by the fireside like friends in a beautiful house! The children ran with the dog in the garden while we visited the house. We learned a lot about village life by talking with the owner who spoke very good English. I had always dreamed of entering a French house and my dream came true!

My friends and I had a great day at Émilies. Driving up to her house we climbed through the forest, and were greeted by a smiling Émilie in her garden! We started with a fresh herbal tea & got to know more about our host. We loved how passionate Émilie was about her garden. We even got to pick our salad for lunch & learnt about all of the different varieties of legumes. Émilie really treated us to a big spread at lunch, after we walked in her field to meet her horses. If you’re wanting to escape the city and be in nature this is the experience for you! Thank you for a lovely day out! 😀

My friends and I had a great afternoon at Emilie’s home. She welcomed us warmly, and we started with tea and a walk around her garden. After that, we enjoyed a homemade aperitif and a tasty lunch with cheese and wine. Later, we visited her horses and even got to feed them, which was a fun and memorable experience. It was a great way to experience life in the countryside while still being close to Paris. Thanks to Emilie for being such a kind and generous host.

I had an amazing day at Emilie's cottage. She lives in a very peaceful and welcoming environment, almost inside of the forest ! She is truely passionate about her vegetable garden and I had a great time discovering all the aromatic herbs, petting the horses and eating and delicious french meal. A must do in the area !