Discovering the Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brunoy, Île-de-France and Dammarie-les-Lys, Île-de-France

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If you're a road trip enthusiast, there's no better way to explore the beautiful Île-de-France region of France than hitting the road from Brunoy to Dammarie-les-Lys. This scenic route spans 53 km and offers breathtaking views of the lush countryside and charming towns along the way. One of the standout highlights of the trip is the town of Melun, which lies halfway between the two starting points. Visitors will find plenty of things to do and see in Melun, but there are also a ton of hidden gems throughout the journey worth checking out.

The Top Five Things to Do on the Road Trip from Brunoy to Dammarie-les-Lys

1. Explore the Château de Fontainebleau

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The Château de Fontainebleau is one of the most famous and impressive châteaux in all of France, and for good reason! Its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and opulent interior make it a must-visit destination for historians, art lovers, and anyone with an appreciation for beautiful spaces. Visitors can explore the grand ballroom, the Napoleon III apartments, the chapel, the gardens, and much more. Fun Fact: This château was once home to the famous kings like Louis VII, Henri IV, and Napoleon Bonaparte.

2. Discover the Artists' Village of Barbizon

If you're a fan of the Impressionist movement, then Barbizon should definitely be on your list of places to visit. This picturesque village was a hub for the artists during the 19th century. Prominent figures like Claude Monet, Napoleon III, and Théodore Rousseau lived and worked here, and their artworks are still celebrated today. Visitors can explore the beautiful landscapes that inspired these artists or attend one of the many art shows or exhibitions in the area. Fun Fact: The Barbizon school artists used to paint their artworks outdoors, otherwise known as en plein air.

3. Visit the Medieval Castle of Blandy-les-Tours

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For a taste of medieval France, look no further than the Castle of Blandy-les-Tours. This impressive fortress dates back to the 13th century and has survived numerous wars and battles over the years. Visitors can explore the drawbridge, the towers, the ramparts, and other features of the castle, as well as learn about its rich history and significance to the region. Fun Fact: The castle features a unique toilet system in which the waste was dropped through a hole in the seat onto the ground below!

4. Take a Stroll Through the Forest of Fontainebleau

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If you're looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, then the Forest of Fontainebleau offers the perfect solution. This expansive forest covers over 100 square kilometers and features a variety of flora and fauna for visitors to observe. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails throughout the forest, so you can explore at your own pace and immerse yourself in nature. Fun Fact: The forest has been hugely popular with rock climbers since the 1940s and was one of the first climbing areas to be established in Europe.

5. See the Aqueduct of Moret-sur-Loing

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The engineering marvel of the Aqueduct of Moret-sur-Loing is an impressive sight to behold. This aqueduct was built in the late 19th century to transport water from the Loing River to the city of Paris. It stands at over 60 meters tall and features 19 arches spanning a distance of 319 meters. Visitors can walk or cycle along the aqueduct and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Fun Fact: The aqueduct was built using over 5 million bricks and took over 10 years to construct!

Conclusion

All in all, this road trip from Brunoy to Dammarie-les-Lys offers a fantastic taste of the Île-de-France region of France. With so many attractions to choose from, visitors are sure to have a fun and memorable journey. From exploring grand châteaux to wandering through quaint villages, there is something for everyone on this route. The trip takes around an hour to complete, but with so many great destinations along the way, it's definitely worth taking your time and enjoying all the sights and sounds of the journey.