Dimanche à la campagne

Sunday in the country is a fabulous event held at the end of April. This year marked their 30th anniversary, quite an achievement. They had 41 exhibitors, or creators, across 40 sites within our region.

I’d chosen to visit a couple of new sites this year, and a couple we’d visited before. The first one was the renovated wooden windmill at Dosches. It was pretty spectacular. First we went into the windmill via the very rickety wooden staircase, then we visited a little exhibition in one of the barns on the story of the local windmills, and the story of this renovation.

There were a number of stalls selling local produce: jams, honey, brioche and bread. All rather tasty, and I couldn’t resist going home with some elderflower jelly and recently baked brioche.

In the grounds of the windmill they had planted a rather beautiful little garden. I love looking at their planting schemes and the little creative ways in which they create interest in the garden. I always gain a little bit of inspiration.

We then headed to the pick-your-own farm ‘Esperance’. We had visited here before, but they have a much improved farm shop now, so I’d certainly look to go back. It’s not that far outside of Troyes, so quite easy to visit.

I was very happy with the tulips I’d picked.

Our next visit was to the fromagerie at Champs-sur-Barse. A favourite of mine, and a timely stop off for lunch; merguez & frites.

Our last stop for the day was Jérôme Cothias, for a glass of champagne and a bit of country dancing.

All-in-all a fabulous day.