Welcome to Mezieres-en-Drouais: A Hidden Gem in France

Day 1: Explore the Village and Its History

  • Morning: Start your day at the Church of Saint-Martin, a beautiful Romanesque church that dates back to the 12th century. This architectural gem offers a glimpse into the medieval past of Mezieres-en-Drouais.
    Address: Rue de l'Église, 28240 Mézières-en-Drouais, France
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Village Green, a serene spot where you can relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Bring your own food or buy fresh produce from the local market in nearby Chartres (open on Thursdays and Saturdays).
  • Evening: For dinner, head to Auberge du Moulin de la Gourde, a cozy restaurant offering traditional French cuisine at reasonable prices.
    Address: 2 Rue du Moulin, 28240 Mézières-en-Drouais, France
    Contact: +33 2 37 49 56 56
  • Accommodation: Stay at Camping Les Peupliers, a budget-friendly campsite located just 10 km away in Vernouillet. They offer basic tents and cabins starting at €20 per night.
    Address: 1 Rue des Peupliers, 28500 Vernouillet, France
    Contact: +33 2 37 21 80 80

Day 2: Nature and Local Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Drouais Regional Natural Park, a protected area perfect for hiking and birdwatching. The park offers several marked trails, including the popular Sentier des Marais, which takes you through marshlands and forests.
    Address: Accessible via Route D136, 28240 Mézières-en-Drouais, France
  • Afternoon: Grab lunch at Boulangerie Patisserie Lefebvre, a local bakery offering delicious sandwiches, pastries, and bread. A meal here will cost around €5-€10.
    Address: 5 Place de la Mairie, 28240 Mézières-en-Drouais, France
    Contact: +33 2 37 49 51 51
  • Evening: Spend your evening exploring the village's small artisan shops and enjoy a simple dinner at Le Petit Bistrot, a family-run eatery serving hearty home-cooked meals.
    Address: 8 Rue Principale, 28240 Mézières-en-Drouais, France
    Contact: +33 2 37 49 52 52
  • Accommodation: Return to Camping Les Peupliers for another night under the stars.

Day 3: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

  • Morning: Take a short trip to Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 30 minutes away. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.
    Address: Place de la Cathédrale, 28000 Chartres, France
  • Afternoon: Have lunch at Le Boeuf Couronné, a budget-friendly brasserie in Chartres offering classic French dishes.
    Address: 10 Rue des Changes, 28000 Chartres, France
    Contact: +33 2 37 21 88 88
  • Evening: Return to Mezieres-en-Drouais for a farewell walk along the River Eure. End your day with a light snack at Crêperie Bretonne, a charming spot specializing in savory and sweet crepes.
    Address: 12 Rue de la Rivière, 28240 Mézières-en-Drouais, France
    Contact: +33 2 37 49 53 53
  • Accommodation: Check out of Camping Les Peupliers and continue your journey.

Additional Expenses That Could Enhance Your Trip

  • Bike Rental: Rent a bike for €10-€15 per day to explore the scenic countryside more conveniently.
  • Guided Tour: Join a guided tour of Chartres Cathedral for €8 to gain deeper insights into its history and architecture.
  • Transportation: Consider renting a car for €30-€40 per day to access remote areas and nearby towns easily.