Just a few minutes from Fontainebleau, Samois-sur-Seine has that rather rare atmosphere of villages where the streets are quiet, the houses open onto the Seine, and houseboats gradually replace the noise of the city. Yet this small village in Seine-et-Marne hides a history far richer than it appears.
A village closely linked to a guitar legend
Situated directly on the banks of the river, Samois developed thanks to the Seine and its port. For a long time, the village lived to the rhythm of river transport: wood from the Forest of Fontainebleau, sandstone pavers, and goods were shipped from here to Paris. The port played an important role in local life for centuries.
Today, this history is still evident along the riverbanks. A stroll along the Seine allows you to discover the old 19th-century vacation villas, sometimes nicknamed the “Affolantes,” built when the riverbanks became popular relaxation spots for Parisians.
But if Samois is known far beyond the Île-de-France region, it is mainly thanks to Django Reinhardt. The famous gypsy jazz guitarist settled here in 1951 and remained until his death in 1953. He is buried in the village cemetery. His time here left a deep mark on Samois, so much so that a festival has been dedicated to him for decades.
For many years, the Django Reinhardt Festival was held on Île du Berceau, a small island accessible from the riverbanks. Every summer, the site welcomed thousands of gypsy jazz enthusiasts before the festival moved to Fontainebleau in 2017. The island remains, however, one of the most pleasant spots in the village for a stroll along the water’s edge.
Beyond its musical heritage, Samois is a great destination fora nature getaway. The Forest of Fontainebleau is nearby, paths run along the Seine, and several outdoor cafes let you enjoy the village’s tranquility. Many people simply come to walk along the Franklin Roosevelt Quay before continuing their day in the direction of Fontainebleau.
Accessible in about an hour from Paris via Fontainebleau-Avon followed by a short drive, Samois-sur-Seine remains one of the most charming villages in the area.
📍Samois-sur-Seine