After a long summer break, the country is getting back to its usual pace. Resorts are empty, kids are starting school early September, Paris is again full of Parisians... If you want to meet local people, autumn is definitely the best season. If some days can be rainy, other days can be pleasantly warm: an "été indien" (Indian summer) as we say in french. Autumn is a beautiful and dynamic season full of colors and traditions. Dive into France's most beautiful landscapes, from the bustling cities to peaceful brown and orange countrysides. What happens in France during autumn?
MUSHROOMS HUNT
Mushroom hunting is a real tradition in some french regions. People gather, grab their baskets and wander through the woods to collect the most delicious mushrooms to cook for a convivial meal. Mushroom hunting is the perfect way to enjoy some fresh air and do long nice walks.
THE GRAPE HARVEST Starting at the end of August and finishing at the end of October, the grape harvest is one of the most important moment of the year for wine producers. Renown as one of the leading nations for fine wine, France's wine production dates from the Roman ages. During the harvest, more than 750,000 hectare of vineyards are getting alive with thousands of people across France volunteering to hand-pick all the grapes. The grapes are then carefully pressed before fermenting under supervision. Participating in a grape harvest is a lot of fun and... back pain. Many domains, busier than the rest of the year, are not especially thrilled to welcome visitors but during the harvest time, you will be able to taste great wine in the harvest festivals (such as La Fête des Vendanges in Montmartre) and discover the Beaujolais nouveau, the first wine released.
CHESTNUTS FORAGE
Chestnuts forage is another occasion to hike the country's forests and collect ingredients for a meal with your friends and family. Check out first that the place where you want to hike houses chestnut trees. Not all the regions have them! You can also buy roasted chestnuts in towns and cities markets. If you are close to Provence, you might want to go to the renown Collobrières Chestnut Festival, a lovely event where you will be able to taste chestnuts cooked in many different ways.
COMFORT FOOD IS BACK !
The temperature getting colder during autumn is a good excuse to start eating comfort food again. Cheese-filled meals but also buttery croissants, traditional stews and casseroles such as Boeuf Bourguignon, and creamy potatoes with the traditional Gratin Dauphinois. Lighter and healthier, autumn is the perfect season to start eating soups again with onions, pumpkins and all kind of squashes.
Autumn 2021 Calendar - main dates : Beginning of September – la Rentrée (return to school) October 6 - 10 - Montmartre harvest festival October 17 - Chestnut festival in Collobrières November 1 (bank holiday) – la Toussaint (All Saints’ Day) November 11 (bank holiday) – Armistice of WWI
Please contact me if you have any question or if you would like to organize your stay, I will be thrilled to help! Send me an email at info@inland-travel.com.
Frenchly yours,
Sandra
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