Ever wondered what it’s like to explore the French countryside on horseback and by foot?

In From the French Countryside to Classical Concerts in Paris, host Annie Sargent chats with Casey and Molly, two sisters who share their recent adventures through rural France. This episode is packed with off-the-beaten-path ideas for travelers who love nature, history, and cultural surprises.

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The sisters didn’t just pass through France—they immersed themselves in it. They stayed at Mas de Peyrelongue, a welcoming equestrian farm where visitors can ride horses "à la carte" while practicing their French with the hosts. For hikers, they found a gem: the Abbey of Sainte-Eulalie Espagnac, a peaceful stop along a local trail where walkers can rest for the night. They also visited the Château d'Ygrande in the Auvergne, a gorgeous countryside retreat with an elegant restaurant—perfect for relaxing in a beautiful natural setting.

But their journey didn’t stop there. After their rural adventures, they returned to Paris for a very different kind of experience: a classical concert at Sainte-Chapelle and a stroll through the Marais.

This episode is a great listen for travelers looking for slower, more personal ways to enjoy France. Whether you're planning your next trip or just dreaming of France, don’t miss this story.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:30] Today on the podcast
• [00:00:58] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:26] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:00] Episode 557
• [00:03:17] Exploring Mas de Peyrelongue
• [00:06:02] Discovering Abbey Sainte-Eulalie d’Espignon
• [00:08:06] Visiting Rocamadour and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
• [00:13:23]  Painted Cave of Pech-Merle
• [00:14:23] Toulouse and Elyse’s Walking Tour
• [00:18:45] Market Day in Sarlat
• [00:21:32] Paris: The Pantheon Experience
• [00:24:00] Classical Music Concerts in Parisian Churches
• [00:26:05] Exploring Parisian Parks: Parc Monceau and Highline Park
• [00:28:50] A Culinary and Equestrian Adventure in Auvergne
• [00:30:39] Michelin Bib Restaurants
• [00:32:06] Discovering the Chateaus of Amboise
• [00:33:30] Trying Different White Wines Along the Way
• [00:36:27] Hiking and Scenic Routes in Auvergne
• [00:38:34] A Brief Stop in Cahors and the Camino de Santiago
• [00:41:24] Latin Dancing Along the Seine River
• [00:43:30] Travel Tips and Reflections
• [00:51:39] Thank you, Patrons
• [00:53:13] Montmartre – a local view
• [00:57:15] Annie’s VoiceMap Tour of Montmartre
• [00:57:43] What’s the Solution?
• [00:59:16] Copyright

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