If you're ever in Paris and the city hustle starts to feel a bit too loud, I’ve got the perfect escape for you. Just a quick 30-minute train ride from Gare du Nord and you’ll find yourself in Chantilly—a place that feels like stepping back into the 17th century, but with better coffee and significantly more horses.

The Morning Commute (The Easy Kind)

We hopped the train early, and before I could even finish my croissant, we were pulling into the station. From there, it was a brisk, beautiful walk through the greenery straight to the stables. There’s something about the air in Chantilly; it just smells like history (and, okay, a little bit like hay).

Saddling Up at the Horse Capital

Chantilly isn't just a town; it’s the equestrian capital of France. We headed to the stables where Carly, Christopher, and Ella got fitted for their boots and helmets. It was a proud dad moment watching them walk out to the paddock to meet their horses. They spent some time getting them ready—brushing them down and getting the saddles just right—before heading out for a two-hour ride through the estate.

While the riders were off exploring, Maya, Charlotte, and I took it easy. We found a nice spot to wait, enjoyed the sunshine, and watched the world go by. It’s not a bad way to spend a morning, let me tell you.

The Grandeur of Château de Chantilly

Once the riders returned (looking like professionals, I might add), we walked over to the Château de Chantilly. This place is "grand" in every sense of the word. A little history for you: the current Château was rebuilt in the late 19th century by the Duke of Aumale, the son of the last King of France. He was a massive art collector, and he actually left the entire estate to the Institut de France on the condition that the layout of the paintings never be changed. That’s why the museum inside—the Musée Condé—is so unique; it’s like a time capsule of 19th-century taste.

Lunch, Shows, and the Famous Cream

After a fantastic lunch near the castle (you can’t walk this much without proper fuel), we caught a horse show at the Great Stables (Grandes Écuries). These stables are famous for being the largest in Europe—legend has it the 7th Prince of Condé believed he’d be reincarnated as a horse and wanted a palace fit for one!

We capped off the day touring the apartments and the museum, but the real highlight for the taste buds was the Chantilly cream. Yes, it was invented here, and no, the stuff in the can back home doesn’t even come close. It was the perfect, sweet ending to a legendary family day.

If you have a day to spare in France, take the train. See the horses. Eat the cream. You won't regret it.