France Field Journal: A Unique Hunting Adventure with Trek International Safaris

France Field Journal: A Unique Hunting Adventure with Trek International Safaris

At Trek International Safaris, we continuously strive to uncover unique, high-quality hunting opportunities for our clients. Over the years, we’ve curated exceptional European hunting trips, but we had yet to explore the possibilities in France. That changed when we received a private invitation to experience two remarkable hunting estates nestled in the Parisian countryside—Domaine de Sandricourt and Château de Voisins.

I had the honor of representing Trek on this unforgettable journey to vet these high-class programs for our clients. What I discovered throughout this remarkable adventure exceeded expectations.

Among the captivating beauty and rich culture of France, there are exceptional hunting experiences that await you as well. It’s a journey that combines world-class shooting with French charm, offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you’ll want to include on your Trek-list.

Getting There: A Seamless Journey to Paris

Traveling to France is straightforward, with multiple daily flights to Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) from major U.S. cities. After an eight-hour flight, I arrived at CDG around midday.

Navigating immigration and customs was smooth, and my pre-arranged driver from our French partners met me promptly. The hour-long drive to central Paris in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz sedan set the tone for the trip ahead—relaxing, stylish, and effortless.

A Parisian Prelude: Exploring the City of Light

Before venturing into the countryside, I spent my first evening in Paris. I chose the boutique Victoria Palace Hotel and Spa, a charming 4-star hotel tucked into the Latin Quarter. Its location on a quiet street near vibrant cafes, bakeries, and shops made it an ideal base for exploring.

After freshening up, I set out on a leisurely walk through Paris. My evening included a delightful wine and cheese tasting, where I discovered the rich history behind French vintages, and a dinner at Villa Marquise, where traditional dishes like French onion soup elevated the dining experience.

Paris, with its historic landmarks and tempting bakeries, is a feast for the senses. A highlight was stumbling upon the Notre-Dame Cathedral as its bells rang for the first time since the 2019 fire—a magical moment. I also visited the Louvre and strolled along the Seine, taking in Paris’s timeless charm before departing for my first hunting destination.

Domaine de Sandricourt: Elegance Meets Tradition

A driver from Domaine de Sandricourt arrived promptly at 2:00 PM to escort me to the estate. The hour-and-a-half journey from Paris transitioned from bustling city streets to serene countryside vistas. Upon arrival, I was greeted by Thibaut, the estate’s host, and Francis Goelet, a member of the family that owns Sandricourt. Their warm welcome set the tone for the days ahead.

The Chateau Experience

My accommodations in the chateau were superb, featuring a spacious room with modern amenities and scenic views of the estate. After settling in, I met the rest of the group in the gun room to select our shotguns—new Browning Citori 725 over/unders, available in 12-gauge and 20-gauge models. Following a brief clay shooting session to familiarize ourselves with the firearms, we toured the historic estate. The Goelet family’s stories of World War II, the estate’s architecture, and its grounds offered a fascinating glimpse into French history, as well as a background of the family and their own history.

Evenings at the chateau were unforgettable. Cocktail hour by the grand fireplace transitioned seamlessly into exquisite multi-course dinners featuring French cuisine, paired with fine wines and ending with delicate desserts. Conversations lingered into the night, making for a truly immersive experience.

Pheasant Shooting at Sandricourt

Our first day of shooting began with a leisurely breakfast of pastries, yogurt, and coffee. After a safety briefing led by Thibaut, we drew our posts for the morning pheasant drives and were paired with our personal loader. Each drive was meticulously planned, offering challenging shooting opportunities as pheasants soared above tree lines. The estate’s gamekeepers, led by Steve, ensured a steady flow of birds and provided valuable insights into the sport.

Between drives, we gathered at a picturesque gazebo for refreshments, including coffee, soup, and some delightful finger sandwiches. Lunches at the chateau were hearty and satisfying, featuring dishes like wild boar with risotto, followed by cheese and dessert courses.

The day concluded with a traditional tableau ceremony right on the front drive of the chateau, where the gamekeeper shared the day’s harvest numbers, and the group celebrated with a champagne toast. These ceremonies, steeped inEuropean hunting tradition, were a highlight of the experience.

Partridge Shooting at Sandricourt

Day two brought a change of pace with fast-flying partridge drives. The dynamic shooting required focus and quick reflexes, as coveys appeared from unexpected angles. The scenery was breathtaking, with each drive showcasing a different part of the estate’s diverse terrain.

Between the morning and afternoon drives, we enjoyed another lovely lunch at the chateau, featuring dishes prepared with local ingredients. By the end of the day, the tableau ceremony once again celebrated a successful hunt, with plenty of stories shared over evening cocktails and dinner.

Château de Voisins: A Hunting Paradise

After two days at Sandricourt, I departed for Château de Voisins, locatednear Rambouillet. The journey through the Parisian countryside offered scenic views of quaint villages and rolling farmland. Upon arrival, I was struck by the cinematic sight of the chateau, which has hosted everything from fashion shoots to blockbuster films to what it was originally constructed for – luxury wingshooting.

Jean-Jacques, the estate’s head of operations, welcomed me warmly and provided a tour of the grounds. Voisins, designed specifically for royal shooting, offers stunning landscapes ideal for driven mallard and pheasant hunts. Though I didn’t hunt at Voisins on this trip, the estate’s impeccable facilities and dedication to excellence left a lasting impression.

The Trek Difference: Why France?

Reflecting on my time in France, one word kept coming to mind about the potential trip and the chateaus: unique. At Trek International Safaris, we pride ourselves on crafting extraordinary experiences for our clients, and this trip exemplifies our commitment to delivering something truly special. France offers more than just world-class shooting; it provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich cultural tapestry.

Whether you pair your hunting adventure with a few days in Paris, a tour of the wine country, or a visit to the beaches of Normandy, the possibilities are endless. For those seeking a refined and distinctive hunting experience, France offers it all: exceptional shooting, historical charm, and culinary delights.

Plan Your French Hunting Adventure Today

With over 50 years of expertise in international hunting travel, Trek International Safaris is your trusted partner for creating unforgettable adventures. Our exclusive partnerships with Domaine de Sandricourt and Château de Voisins ensure that you’ll experience the very best France has to offer.

If this story has inspired you to explore a hunting trip to France, contact us today to start planning your own adventure. Let us handle every detail, from accommodations to transfers, so you can focus on making memories.

Cheers, and happy hunting!

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