Paris has so much to offer - museums, beautiful architecture, amazing restaurants, busy open-air markets, the promise of a magical moment when you are simply crossing over the Seine - it can be a hard city to leave, even for just a day. What will you miss out on?! However, living in a city can take its toll, and despite all of Paris' greatness, sometimes you just need a break from the movement of it all. Thankfully, you can be hiking in a gigantic forest with a Fontainebleau expert in less than one hour by jumping on a train at the Gare de Lyon!
No sooner have you finished your pain au chocolat (that you bought yourself as a treat for waking up so early on a Saturday), that you begin to see the scenery change from Haussmannien buildings to enormous chêne (oak trees) on either sides of railroad tracks. It's peaceful and the air the fresh - the perfect way to spend an autumn day in France n'est pas?
CEA Paris students made the great escape to Fontainebleau on Saturday, not only to explore the forest, but also to discover the beautiful château built by monarchs over the years from a structure beginning with François 1st. Though the rain was pouring in Paris, the sun began to creep through the clouds as soon as they arrived at the Fontainebleau train station. Here is their beautiful day, in pictures!
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Our guide treated us to some delicious macarons!
A fantastic view over Fontainebleau and Avon - which merits a jump pic!
 |
 |
 |
 |