Walking trail - The Saint-Louis district

Captivating, unexpected, and full of charm, these 18th-century houses invite you to lose yourself in their history-filled alleyways.Between Rue Royale and Rue d’Anjou, the Carrés Saint-Louis form one of the most picturesque and authentic corners of Versailles. This unusual urban ensemble was conceived under the reign of Louis XV with the aim of creating an additional market to the one already established in the city center. These small houses, of simple yet harmonious architecture, were built to accommodate merchants and bring life to this new district. Over time, many of these buildings were transformed into residences, and in the past twenty years, this haven of peace has regained its full splendor thanks to careful restoration. Although some of the houses located on Rue du Marché Neuf, Rue de l’Occident, Rue de l’Orient, and Rue de la Sainte-Famille were too old and fragile to be preserved, the ensemble still stands today as a living testimony of 18th-century Versailles urban planning. Listed as historic monuments, the Carrés Saint-Louis are now an integral part of the city’s treasured heritage. Wandering through their cobbled streets, admiring their flowered façades, and breathing in the peaceful atmosphere is an unmissable experience for anyone wishing to discover the secret soul of Versailles.

Treat yourself to an exceptional stroll around the Pièce d’Eau des Suisses, a vast 13-hectare basin dug between 1679 and 1682 by a regiment of Swiss Guards, from which it takes its name today.Located at the foot of Rue de l’Indépendance Américaine, on the edge of the charming Saint-Louis district, this majestic water feature is open to pedestrians and cyclists from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last entry at 6:15 p.m.). Designed to enhance the southern perspective of the Palace of Versailles, it extends the Orangerie and also played a key role in draining the land dedicated to the King’s Kitchen Garden, created at the same time. At the end of the basin, discover a fascinating replica of the famous equestrian statue of Louis XIV by Le Bernin. Initially poorly received by the Sun King, the work was transformed into an antique hero and moved out of his sight — adding a touch of history and mystery to this unique site. Surrounded by vast green lawns and bordered by wide alleys shaded by magnificent century-old plane trees, the Pièce d’Eau des Suisses is today a haven of peace, perfect for relaxing, strolling, or enjoying a picnic with family or friends.

Built between 1678 and 1683 at the request of Louis XIV by Jean-Baptiste de La Quintinie, the Potager du Roi is a remarkable 9-hectare garden listed as a historic monument.Created in 1683 at the request of Louis XIV by Jean-Baptiste de La Quintinie, the Potager du Roi is a remarkable 9-hectare garden listed as a historic monument. This productive garden was originally designed to supply the King’s table with fruits and vegetables of exceptional quality and rarity, while also showcasing French agricultural expertise. Today, the Potager du Roi features a collection of over 750 fruit and vegetable varieties, both heirloom and contemporary, laid out according to the characteristic geometry of classical French gardens. Open to the sky, this haven of greenery perpetuates the art of garden design and the unique expertise of espalier fruit tree pruning. Garden lovers and enthusiasts of the French art of living will appreciate this living heritage, whose flavors, scents, and landscapes evolve with the seasons. Having become an imperial garden and later a horticultural school in the 19th century, the Potager du Roi now hosts the prestigious National School of Landscape Architecture (École nationale supérieure de paysage), where the art and techniques of garden and landscape design are taught. Cultural Program A true place for gathering, sharing, and culture, the Potager du Roi invites visitors of all ages to come together around a wide range of cultural themes such as gardening, cuisine, dance, theater, music, art, and more. In partnership with the City of Versailles, events such as Esprit Jardin bring together gardening enthusiasts. Le Mois Molière offers the opportunity to (re)discover classical theater staged in an exceptional setting, while Les Saveurs du Potager highlights the diversity of fruit and vegetable production. Visits, Workshops, and Training Every weekend from April to October, guided tours are offered to explore the site’s rich heritage with professional guides, gardeners, or passionate landscape students. A wide range of workshops and short training courses in the garden—such as Natural Kitchen Gardening, Designing and Cultivating a Garden, and Medicinal Plants—are open to the general public (guided visits are available in French only). Membership Program The Potager du Roi can be enjoyed year-round with an annual membership card, La Clé du Potager, which also offers a range of discounts at the on-site bookshop and boutique. Volunteering at the Potager du Roi Volunteers are welcome at the Potager du Roi and can take part in a variety of activities. A dedicated program allows participants to contribute to site maintenance, gardening work, and visitor reception and event activities. The Bookshop and Boutique The on-site bookshop and boutique sell fruits and vegetables grown at the Potager du Roi, as well as processed products—such as juices, jams, honey, and coulis—and derivative products like plant-based cosmetics made from garden ingredients. Fresh produce is available according to the seasons and weekly markets. The specialized bookshop offers over 800 titles and magazines covering gardening, ecology, cuisine, agriculture, and landscape design.