You’re off to Europe to explore the beautifully romantic lands of France. You’ve dreamed about the picturesque countryside landscapes and the quaint city streets. Sitting curb side, sipping an espresso and watching people drive by on their Vespa’s. You can’t wait to see the wondrous castles, famous art museums, and awe-inspiring monuments like the Eiffel Tower and the Arch De Triumph.
You may have gotten excited because you found some cheap flights, but you should be most excited about the cuisine. Between the glorious restaurants and the delectable shops, you can plan to devour some of France’s best cheeses. Many people are unaware of all the different luxurious cheeses France has to offer. With there being somewhere between 350 to 400 distinct types of French cheese, there is plenty for you to indulge in. Going on cheese tours in France is a great way for you to learn about the history of French cuisine. Here are the very best cheese markets and tours you’ll find in France for you to consider.
Tour De Fromage
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This tour ensures a French cheese education as well as a generous tasting of cheeses from some of Paris’ best-loved fromageries. Learn about how various cheeses are produced, why French cheese makers use raw unpasteurized milk in their cheeses, the impacts of seasonality and aging, and much, much more.
A knowledgeable guide, will answer all your questions as you stuff your face with cheeses like well-aged Camembert, Vieux Gris de Lille, and 36-month Comté.
La-Ferme Saint-Hubert
If you can teach yourself some French language basics on your Air France flight or in your hotel room, you’ll be guaranteed the royal treatment at La-Ferme Saint-Hubert. They’ll guide you through the store according to your taste preference and will allow you samples of cheeses like La Chanterelle, Tomme au Marc, Pelardon Cevennes, and Crottin Chavignol. Even better, they’ll vacuüm seal and ship any cheese you want to take back home with you.
Fromagerie Quatrehomme
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Just footsteps away from La Grande Epicerie de Paris, this popular cheese market ought to be your first stop when planning the ultimate Parisian picnic. The plethora of cheeses can be overwhelming, but luckily the people at Fromagerie Quatrehomme are used to accommodating tourists.
Take your time perusing this shop and finding deliciously unique cheeses like Brin d’amour, Epoisse, St. Marcellin, and Tomme de Savoie. You may even find some cheeses formed in fun shapes. Once you’ve grabbed your cheese, head to the epicentre for meats, fruits, and wine to complete your picnic lunch.
Burgundy on a Plate
Of the 250 varieties of cheese in France, Burgundy boasts around 27 delicious kinds such as Bouton de Culotte, Epoisses, and Cîteaux. Burgundy on a Plate offers tourists a chance opportunity to travel through the Burgundian countryside on a four-day wine and cheese adventure. Guests will visit several family owned vineyards, famous wine villages, and world-renowned restaurants. A tour for the devout cheese enthusiasts, it’ll be an experience you’ll never forget.
Jean d’Alos
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Located in Bordeaux, this market is a must for all cheese aficionados. Known for friendly and helpful service, they’ll cater to Americans who can speak even a few words in French. A gorgeous market specializing in dairy, one can find interesting mouth-watering cheeses like the smooth Bigourdan, the rich Truffle, and the sharp Bleu d’Auvergne.
Whether you’re a Brie fanatic or Blue admirer, France will impress your cheese-loving palate. With cheese markets (known as fromageries) on every street corner and cheese tours offered daily, you’re sure to indulge in the world’s finest cheese while vacationing in France.
By Abigail Clark
