Coulommiers, well-known for its eponymous cheese, is a very welcoming town located in the delightful Grand Morin valley in the Brie region. It boasts much of interest, including historic buildings, bridges and footbridges crossing the canals, and the lovely Capucins park, the former grounds of the now ruined château of the Duchess of Longueville and the location of Capucins chapel, today home to a museum devoted to the different stages in the town's history.
Also not to be missed is the Commanderie des Templiers, the headquarters of the Knights Templar, built in the 12th century. There you can visit the Gothic chapel, Commander's House, Tithe Barn, Chapter Room, cellars and pigeon tower. A permanent exhibition charts the history of the Order of the Temple. You can also wander around the medieval garden and its collection of medicinal plants and heritage vegetables.
Boat trips on the tranquil Grand Morin river are organised during the summer months.
Every Sunday in July, Capucins park hosts free concerts as part of the Jazz aux Capucins festival.
A must for all foodies is the town's celebrated cheese and wine festival, the Foire aux Fromages et aux Vins de Coulommiers, which showcases local produce – including the famous Brie de Coulommiers – over four days every spring.
