Hidden gems are awaiting you near the Seine River at less than an hour of Paris.
You would be amazed to visit La Roche-Guyon, which was elected among the best villages in France! The main and tall landmark of the place is the multi level castle: the medival donjon was first built in the 12th century, on the contrary the lower part was late added in the 16/17th century. Some chapels are hidden inside and many temporary exhibit are held there.
The Vexin Natural Park is crossed by the wonderful Seine River several times: Nature has drawn a marvellous landscape with green trees, cray cliffs and river banks with charming french villages.
No far from here the famous Claude Monet has found its home and created impressionnism painting masterpieces.
A narrow road follows the Seine and its little lakes, going up and down abruptly. And you see a little charming village which boasts to be one of the best villages of France. The whole city is under the guard of an 12th century donjon, the landmark of this part of the Ile de France region and its surrondings. This castle is one of the kind because underground caves, 18th century stables and marvelous 16th century classic palace are interwined.
How to go there?
With a car drive from Paris on the A13 highway about 1hour, and you will see Mantes-La-Jolie.
Exit the highway, you are close, just follow the La Roche Guyon signs.
Where to eat?
Two places:
First one is the Creperie with the front door and walls covered with ivy vine, you can't miss it! It's on main street :) The crepes are very delicous and several recipes are available! They taste well and authentic! From dessert crepes to very complete and yummy ham ,egg, cheese crepes! If you like drinks, don't forget the cider ;)
Second one is the Logis restaurant Les bords de Seine, It means Seine River Banks so you hve to take the street which heads to the Seine and you will find a huge terrasse in Summer near the remains of some (look like) medival walls.
What to visit?
The various parts of the castle and its exhibitions.
The heart of the village, the fountain little plaza and its church (usually closed, peharps not on Sundays).
Don't miss the arch basement building with the Grenier à Sel, a nice building which used to be a salt storage.