Escape Paris: A Dreamy Weekend in the French Countryside

Location

After soaking up the excitement of Paris, if you're ready for a slower pace, Domaine de Primard, nestled along the Eure River near the town of Saint-Léger-en-Yvelines, offers the perfect retreat — just an hour’s drive or train from the city. Surrounded by lush greenery, rolling fields and tranquil waterways, the estate provides an ideal escape for nature lovers or those looking to just disconnect. With everything you could possibly need available on the property, it’s easy to unwind and enjoy the serene countryside without having to venture too far from Paris.

Accommodation

As we drove onto the estate grounds, the sight of the chateau was grand yet unassuming, elegant but inviting. The staff greeted us warmly in the beautifully decorated entryway, making us feel like family from the start. Thanks to Fora perks, we were upgraded upon arrival.

Our suite in the main house offered sweeping views of the Eure River, with a king-sized bed, a marble bathroom featuring a deep clawfoot tub and large windows that opened up to let in the fresh country air. The rooms and suites combine historical charm with modern comforts. Spacious layouts, luxurious bedding and high-end amenities make your stay nothing short of relaxing. Some rooms offer private terraces while most feature large windows that flood the space with natural light.

Exploring the grounds

Domaine de Primard’s 20-hectare estate offers an abundance to explore. Guests are invited to roam the grounds in provided garden boots, wandering through peaceful pastures, lush gardens and scenic trails. I loved roaming the pastures and making friends with Primard’s very own Highland cows and sheep. We enjoyed peaceful walks along the riverside and learned about the estate’s beautifully tended vegetable gardens, which supply fresh ingredients for the two on-site restaurants.

Dining

At Domaine de Primard, dining is a key part of the experience. Each morning, we were treated to a sumptuous breakfast (a Fora perk) with farm-fresh ingredients, perfectly cooked eggs and a variety of delicious options that rivalled even the best Parisian spreads.

Tea time at Primard is a must. Each afternoon, guests are invited to enjoy a local spread of pastries, tea and coffee. Whether you choose the sun-lit back patio or one of the beautifully decorated common areas in the main house, the experience is pure happiness.

Dinner at the estate’s Martin restaurant is a highlight, serving seasonal French cuisine with a countryside twist. For a more casual meal, Bistrot de la Ferme offers dishes inspired by regional traditions, all set within the stunning backdrop of the estate's gardens, where dining al fresco is a wonderful option during warmer months.

After dinner, be sure to enjoy a nightcap in the cozy yet elegant lobby bar. Its intimate, inviting atmosphere is the perfect way to unwind before retreating to your suite for the night.

Experiences

One of our Fora perks included a complimentary experience. We chose a wine tasting in the estate’s 14th-century underground garden cellar. Alexis, the head sommelier, guided us through the nuances of French wines in this intimate and cozy setting and we even found our new favorite French wine!

While we chose the wine tasting, Domaine de Primard offers a variety of unique experiences, including private garden tours, hands-on gardening workshops, tours to surrounding areas like Monet’s Giverny Gardens and much more!

The property also offers complimentary bicycles to guests, so we set off to explore the surrounding countryside. Among some of the greenest fields that stretched as far as the eye could see, a picnic by the river was the perfect way to enjoy the afternoon sunshine.

Suzanne Kaufmann Spa

The Suzanne Kaufmann Spa at Domaine de Primard offers a holistic wellness experience, with access to its sensorial area, including a sauna, steam room and Japanese bath. This tranquil space is perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. We spent an afternoon here, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and it was the ideal way to relax and recharge after a day of exploring the estate.

Thoughtful touches

The staff at Primard go above and beyond to anticipate needs and make your stay memorable. Knowing how much we enjoyed our wine tasting, the general manager invited us to a special presentation of the 2015 vintage of Veuve Cliquot’s Grand Dame. Hosted in the cozy main house kitchen with a wood-burning stove and an intimate large family-style table, it was the kind of thoughtful gesture that makes you feel truly cared for.

Leaving Primard was bittersweet. Our weekend had been the perfect balance of peace, adventure and indulgence, leaving us refreshed and excited to visit again.

Domaine de Primard has just earned a Michelin key for “Special Stay,” and it’s quickly becoming a must-visit destination. Don’t miss the chance to experience this hidden gem before word gets out. Let me help you book your stay and ensure you make the most of this unforgettable escape to the French countryside!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our France page.