Domaine de la Corniche

The Paris Region is known for its enormous charm. Everything about it invites you to unwind, explore magical places and enjoy unusual activities, for an experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. But after an outing with Canoseine, or during a romantic long weekend of cycling, it’s time for a feel-good break. So, head for Domaine de la Corniche. You’ll find it near Roche-Guyon Castle, overlooking the Seine and the Giverny countryside. Set in a small hamlet with a population of around a hundred, this is the perfect place to get away from the daily grind and feel at one with nature.

Domaine de la Corniche has the appearance of a manor house and has retained all its Belle Epoque charm. The interior decoration is a reminder of the glory days of this historic venue… Rumour has it that, in the early 20th century, Léopold II, then King of the Belgians, had this place built as a love nest… Nicknamed Corniche de Rolleboise, it later became a hotspot for festive gatherings.

But it wasn’t until 2004 that a local lad decided to fulfil his dream by purchasing the estate. It became a resort in its own right.

A spa…quana

The owner thought big when it came to converting the estate’s outhouses into relaxation facilities. A 600 m² space devoted to wellbeing. At Spaquana, the very name promises a wonderful experience. It is the contraction of ‘spa’ and ‘sequana’ (Latin for Seine) and an invitation to go with the flow. Not the flow of the river, but of this magical place.

What to expect A beautiful indoor swimming pool, a jacuzzi, loungers on which to unwind, a hammam, a sauna and a sun deck. But that’s not all. Where there’s a spa there’s a massage booth! True to tradition, Spaquana is no exception, offering treatments and scrubs based on natural products.

So what about the view? As soon as the sun appears, an outdoor pool is available. Ideal for swimming a few lengths, topping up a tan or cooling off, more importantly it is the place to enjoy a view of the entire valley… Stretched out on a lounger facing the Seine, you can only agree that life couldn’t be better.

Cuisine that reaches for the stars

All that relaxing works up an appetite. Here’s your chance to savour the outstanding cuisine of Gaëtan Perulli. This chef with a fascination for the stars wanted to be an astronaut but eventually settled for a star in the kitchen.

At the panoramic restaurant, Gaëtan Perulli adds his sublime touch to classic French dishes served in 3, 5 and 7 course set menus that come with what is said to be one of the most beautiful views in the Île-de-France region.

On Sundays, the star-studded team makes way for another brigade, that of the Belvédère. Still facing the Seine, you’ll enjoy a delicious brunch or go for the buffet option.

Unless you just fancy a snack after your session in the spa, in which case the 20 du Domaine is the place to be. As the name suggests, this is a wine bar (in French, 20 = vingt, pronounced like vin), ideal for a quick but delicious meal. The venue looks much like a family home, decorated with second-hand objects that you can even purchase if something catches your eye.

If you just want a glass of wine, place your trust in Gildas. You’ll find him at the Bar Leopold but here, the king is Gildas. Cocktails, a warm welcome and kindness itself, because this hedonist knows the meaning of hospitality.

A vast playground

The estate is all about relaxation, good food and having fun. A wide range of games such as tarot, backgammon, giant dominoes and mikado are available for a session with family or friends. There’s also a pool table, a petanque pitch, a tennis court and, the icing on the cake… a cinema, available for private screenings.

At the prestigious venues of the Paris Region, relaxation rules!