The Parisian asphalt gives way to acres of trees. Less than an hour from the capital, the forest stretches as far as the eye can see.The InterContinental Chantilly Château Mont Royal stands out in the middle of this vast green expanse, offering an immediate escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Fun fact: from the hotel’s balconies, you can catch a glimpse of Parc Astérix in the distance, where the rides just peek out above the treetops.
Traditional workshop and aquatic relaxation
Once you’ve unpacked, the local immersion begins. Here, a chef from the château leads a hands-on workshop entirely dedicated to authentic whipped cream.
Armed with a professional whisk and a stainless steel bowl, you’ll learn to whip up the original recipe by hand. Your efforts are immediately rewarded with a tasting, simply accompanied by fresh strawberries.
Afterward, the pace slows down at the spa. The space features a large indoor pool lined with columns and a stone jacuzzi designed for muscle relaxation. A few lounge chairs allow you to retreat and extend this moment of calm before nightfall.
At the heart of the estate, the Opéra restaurant is there to satisfy food lovers. The kitchen team focuses on dishes that reflect the seasons. Dinner begins with a colorful beet tartare, seasoned with herbs and yogurt. A creamy autumnal risotto follows, before concluding with a masterfully executed classic: French toast, topped with a scoop of ice cream.
The next morning sets a different pace. The bright dining room welcomes guests with golden pastries, eggs prepared to order, and cold cuts. Then, the surrounding wooded trails provide the perfect setting for a morning jog. A well-timed workout to prepare for the grand brunch at noon. This extensive buffet features displays of seafood, fresh oysters, a large ham carved to order, and an impressive selection of pastries.