Autumn reveals another face of the Pays de Bray: changing forest colours, generous tables, lively markets. Ideas for a seasonal weekend at Domaine Majorelle, between cheese, cider and walks.
The Pays de Bray is the home of Neufchâtel, an emblematic PDO cheese of the area, recognisable by its heart shape. The Route des Fromages de Normandie (in French) lists producers to visit. For more, the tourist office's Bray Gourmand guide lists the area's local producers.
An orchard country, the Bray produces cider, perry and pommeau. Combine a producer visit with a seasonal meal: apple tarts, gratins, cheeses. It also makes a lovely gift to take home.
October and November are the best months for forest walking. The Bois de l'Épinay and the Pays de Bray walks are easy to follow; by bike, the cycling loops offer beautiful light.
On grey days, autumn is museum and château season: Martainville, Vascœuil, or a visit to the former spa quarter of Forges-les-Eaux.
The heated pool closes at the end of September (it is open from May to September), but the large living room with fireplace takes over. An autumn weekend means a morning walk, a slow meal, a game of cards. For groups, autumn also suits writing or creative retreats.
To compose a seasonal meal: pumpkin or squash soup, a slow-cooked dish or gratin, a Norman cheese board (Neufchâtel, of course), an apple tart. Shop at the Forges-les-Eaux market or from a producer; the gîte has a kitchen open to the living area, with oven, induction hob and dishwasher, so you can cook together in front of the fireplace.
Autumn is a calm, luminous season, ideal for writing, creative or yoga retreats, as well as team seminars outside holiday periods. See retreats and group stays, corporate seminars, and our guide on how to organise a wellness retreat in Normandy.
Walking shoes, a windproof jacket, a small cool bag to bring back cheese and cider, and a pack of cards for the evenings. Remember that from autumn the heated pool is no longer open (open from May to September).
Generally in October and early November, depending on the weather.
Yes: the cheese route and the Bray Gourmand guide list producers.
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