Author: Cheryl Brooks

Mention the town of Le Mans, and many of us would probably first think of the motor racing circuit famous for its gruelling 24 hr. endurance race held every year in June.  The majority of visitors at that event watch the race, enjoy the local cuisine and the friendly bars and leave.  Amazingly, most of them never realise that there is a beautiful old town so close by.  The don’t see the Roman ruins, they miss the narrow cobble-stoned streets lined with half-timbered houses, and miss out entirely on the wonderful medieval architecture.

The town of Soissons in Picardy, designated a City of Art and History, has deep, obscure roots that date back to ancient Gaul.  It occupied a strategic location, much fought over by Caesar and his Roman legions and the Gallic tribes, and later became an important city in the Frankish Empire, eventually becoming its capital—the first of France.  If you enjoy discovering little-known destinations that offer important historic monuments, a magnificent Gothic cathedral, and  dramatic experiences during both world wars of the 20^th century, then you will find a visit to Soissons a very rewarding experience.

The medieval town of Senlis is situated near the magnificent Château estate and town of Chantilly.  It’s the kind of French town in which you could happily lose yourself for hours, wandering along the narrow, cobblestoned alleyways and soaking up its history, which stretches back to pre-Roman times.  It’s perfect for a day trip from Paris, especially for those who have already visited Versailles and Fontainebleau, and are looking for another rewarding experience out in the beautiful French countryside.