Île-de-France

Overview:

The Ile de France translates as the Island of France. This is not literally an "island" but refers to the region that wraps itself around Paris, with the capital city as its heart—an area rich in history. Distances from Paris are such that many attractions are easily visited as day trips. Paris is absolutely wonderful and one can easily justify a visit of anywhere from a few days to a few weeks without ever venturing past its city limits. However, if you have the luxury of an extended visit you might be tempted by an excursion or several into the Ile de France.

Pass the boundaries of the glamorous city and the pace slows, roads give way to open fields and pastures, and modern condominiums diminish. As the traffic evaporates, so do the pressures and tensions. Leave Paris in any direction and you will encounter a forest to wander through, a cathedral to study, a castle to conquer, a palace to admire, a charming village restaurant in which to dine or spend time: at least one, if not all five.