The success of the movie Antoinette in the Cevennes illustrates it well: discovering a region by reconnecting with nature is a real trend. To escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, to take the time to make authentic encounters or simply to visit a place in a different way, more and more destinations are offering atypical activities. As for example here in the Hauts-de-Flandre.
2 big ears, 4 sure feet and a strong back: the donkey is the ideal companion for hiking. Of a placid nature, very sociable and endearing, it invites to discover a territory by taking time: clearly less fiery and bloody than a horse, a donkey walks in fact at 4 km/h on average according to the ground... and the motivation. And yes, if it stops, it is not necessarily because it is stubborn but because it thinks a lot: it analyzes the environment and evaluates the risks and, as long as it does not feel safe, it will not advance to avoid putting itself (and you) in danger. Rather reassuring, isn't it?
Easy to feed (originally from desert regions, it is content with what it finds on the road), this former companion of man in work is gentle and patient, especially with children, and can accompany you on foot, in a carriage or in a randoline.
To prepare your discovery of the Country of Flanders by donkey, go to the website of the Tourist Office of this very exotic destination.
At the foot of the fortifications of Bergues or in the pretty village of Hondschoote, what about taking the time to reconnect your 5 senses with nature? With a sophrologist guide and during an outdoor circuit, you will become aware of your body's movements, of their anchoring in the ground and - while admiring the landscape - of your breathing in order to find calm and serenity.
By playing on several relaxation techniques, sophrology (created in 1960 by a neuropsychiatrist) has recognized virtues in stress management and is perfectly associated with tourist discovery: by activating the body and mind in the discovery of a beautiful place, the disconnection with the rhythm of modern life is indeed guaranteed!
In other towns of the Hauts-de-Flandre such as Wormhout and Rexpoëde, morning wake-up calls with the discovery of Qi Gong (traditional Chinese gymnastics) are also offered in a green and soothing setting.
No more excuses not to pamper yourself a little: go here to book your wellness treatment.
Valérie from Comme des Français
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Would you like to discover other original ways to discover a territory?
- Discovering France's heritage through games
- France on a (cheese) platter
- Contemporary art in the vineyards
Photo credit donkey ride: ©La Flanerie Esquelbecq