Explore Garancieres from the Château du Breuil campsite

A highly sought-after fishing spot that regularly hosts competitions, you will take the GR1 trail to reach the Étang de la Tour. You will follow the Drouette, which connects it to the Étang d'Or, while enjoying the fauna and flora of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park.

Marly le Roi owes its notoriety to Louis XIV who had his country residence built here. In the 19th century, artists came in search of tranquillity and inspiration. Nowadays, the village's picturesque little streets continue to attract and charm visitors! Departure point: Marly-le-Roi Information Point On Grande Rue, at No. 41: Until the 1970s, this beautiful property housed a hotel and restaurant, "Au Roi Soleil". Pierre Bourdan, a former presenter of France Libre for London radio, used to stay here, away from the hustle and bustle of Paris. At No. 46: Here once stood the Hôtel du Comte de Toulouse (named after the legitimate son of Louis XIV and Madame de Montespan). At No. 39: Refurbished shops from the 17th and 18th centuries. Shops and royal nurseries used to fill the area between Rue Madame and Avenue des Combattants. Rue de Madame recalls the memory of Princess Palatine, the second wife of Philippe d'Orléans, brother of Louis XIV. She enjoyed staying in Marly. At No. 6: This is the house where one of the greatest crooks of the 20th century, Alexandre Stavisky, was arrested in July 1926. Stage 1 - Place de la Vierge The square, once known as "carrefour d'en bas", was located in the heart of Marly village. The statue of the Virgin pays tribute to the village's Notre Dame church which was destroyed at the end of the 17th century. Opposite, stands the former dwelling of the Pourvoyeurs du Roy, which belongs to the royal palace. Nearby, at No. 5 Rue Pasteur: Maison de la Blanchisserie du Château, another royal outhouse. There is still a wash house here. Opening onto this square is the Lycée Louis de Broglie, built in 1990 on the site of a property where the great tragedian, Rachel,once lived. Stage 2 - Place du Chenil Part of this square was once occupied by the ancient cemetery of Marly le Bourg, previously surrounded by the Prieuré Saint Etienne, Notre Dame church and the Hôtel Dieu. It is lined with some old houses, one of which was a key establishment in French cuisine for many years: the Auberge du Vieux Marly, where owner André Guillot welcomed many famous people. Opposite the town hall, is an enamelled plate reproduction of a painting by Alfred Sisley, "Place du Chenil at Marley, snow effect". This reproduction is found on the "Chemin des Impressionnistes" which stretches across eight towns and villages in the Seine loop. Hôtel de Ville and Parc du Chenil. During his stays in Marly, Louis XIV spent a great deal of time hunting in the forest. After becoming Lord of Marly le Bourg in 1693, he established his kennels in the gardens of the former seigniorial dwelling, and the great hunter, Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld, stayed in the renovated dovecote. The current building has retained some of its 18th-century structure, including the overall framework and the mascarons of the façade. The municipality purchased the building in 1966 and it has housed the council offices since 1988. Stage 3 - Hôtel Couvé An 18th-century hôtel particulier with a wrought iron balcony supported by corbels, cartouches and mascarons. It was used as the town hall between 1846 and 1988. The lower building, with a pediment and clock, was built in 1894 to house the boys' school. Rue Champflour. In the Middle Ages, this street, then called Rue de l'Hôtel Dieu, connected Marly le Bourg to Marley le Chastel. At No. 1bis: Maison "Champflour", a vast property built in the 17th century for an old Marly family and of which only the communal areas remain. After renovation and conversion work, the house was occupied by Alexandre Dumas junior from 1884 until he died in 1895. Stage 4 - Eglise Saint-Vigor Adjoining the castrum, the original church dedicated to Saint-Vigor was built in the 11th century. By order of the king, it was replaced by the current church which was built by Jules-Hardouin Mansart and Robert de Cotte, and consecrated in 1689. This rural but royal church is dedicated to Saint-Vigor and Saint-Etienne. Its classical sobriety is remarkable. The entrance is on the left-hand side, opposite the presbytery. The church was lavishly endowed by Louis XIV who came several times to attend service or Te Deum mass. Some liturgical items and paintings have been deposited at the Musée-Promenade de Marly-le-Roi - Louveciennes. Place Victorien Sardou Domaine du Berduron. In the 17th century, the property belonged to Louis Blouin, the first valet de chambre of Louis XIV. Substantially transformed, it was acquired in 1863 by Victorien Sardou, who established an orange orchard there. Château des Délices. Built in the 18th and 19th centuries, behind the church. The estate was taken over in 1955 by the Drouot group and today houses the regional headquarters of Assurances Axa. A beautiful construction with glass features which fits perfectly with its surroundings. Stage 5 - La Grande Rue The backbone of the ancient village which leads to the park entrance. This fairly steep street (Louis XIV called it the "very steep mountain" and had it paved in 1690), is lined with typical houses that make up a beautiful uniformity. It was inhabited in the 17th and 18th centuries by the winegrowers, tradesmen and craftsmen who worked for the palace, as well as noblemen, bourgeois and "scoundrels" wanting to gamble at the palace "casino". Worth noting: the old tile roofs, the hipped dormer windows and the little niches in the façades, housing protective saints. Rue Coysevox, at No. 12: Pretty country house with a hipped dormer window via which grain was hoisted to the attic with the help of a pulley system fixed under the roof overhang. Grande Rue, at No. 18: an old canted house with wrought iron window supports and an interior staircase with railings. At No. 19/21: A classical 17th and 18th century mansion. At No. 23: Outhouses of the Hôtel du Duc de Gèsvres, who was a Paris governer, built of 18th-century ashlar. Vast carriage gate with mascaron and small timber balcony, 19th century. At No. 27: In the courtyard, a typical country house with a balcony and covered gallery, 16th and 17th centuries. At No. 52: House with 3 mascarons and 2 bull's eye windows (Hôtel de Toulouse outhouses). End point: Tourist Office

Saint-Germain-en-Laye is one of the most interesting historic towns of the Paris region. It has retained its urban fabric from the Middle Ages, as well as its pre-17th-century winding streets and cul-de-sacs. Starting point - Courtyard of the house where Claude Debussy was born No. 38 Rue au Pain In the courtyard, observe the beautiful stairway and wooden banisters, the only one remaining in Saint-Germain-en-Laye. It dates from the late 17th century. Take the steps up to the first floor. This is the Claude Debussy museum. The composer was born here on 22 August 1862. His parents lived in a modest ground-floor flat and ran an earthenware and porcelain shop. The upper floors were occupied by other families. Stage 1 - Rue de la Salle Thus named since 1640 in honour of the captains who governed the town, but also because it housed a hall (“salle”) where the residents would meet. - at no. 16: This is the oldest house in the town. Half-timbered, it is typical of the late Middle Ages. The façade has been restored. - at no. 18: Hôtel des Maréchaux de Villeroy. Owned by Nicolas de Neuville, governor under Louis XIV, and later by his son François, who was also a governor but under Louis XV. Stage 2 - Rue du Vieil Abreuvoir At the street entrance there was a large watering pond but it was demolished in the 18th century to make way for the “coche”, the public vehicle that was the ancestor of the “diligence” stagecoach. - at no. 24: Hôtel “de la Feuillade”. This mansion belonged to the Duc de la Feuillade. He was a great admirer of King Louis XIV, and erected a statue in his honour at Place des Victoires in Paris. - at no. 23: Hôtel de la Marquise de Maintenon. Mistress and, later, the second wife of Louis XIV, she purchased this mansion in 1680. The impressive wrought iron balcony dates back to 1880. - at no. 22: Hôtel de Montausier. Mansion owned by the Duc de Montausier, governor to Louis XIV’s eldest son. The future Maréchal Lyautey also lived here, from 1887 to 1891. He was just a Captain at the time. Stage 3 - Rue des Coches So named since 1700 because it was the departure point of the public “coche” stagecoaches travelling to neighbouring towns, including Paris and Versailles. - at no. 17: Hôtel de Guise: this private mansion was owned by Henri II de Lorraine, Duc de Guise and grandson of the “Balafré” (“slashed face”). Albert Alain, the famous organist from Saint-Germain-en-Laye, was also born here. Stage 4 - Rue des Vieilles Boucheries The street was named after the meat market that was here in the Middle Ages. The street was closed by a gate at night to dissuade thieves. Stage 5 - Cour Larcher Access to the courtyard is from Rue de Paris between nos. 40 and 42. It is named after Regnault Larcher, who was an archer for King Philippe Auguste who founded a “Maison Dieu” here. This little hospital sheltered the poor of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, as well as pilgrims and travellers. Stage 6 - Allée des Récollets A narrow passageway on the site of the ancient Recollects convent. The Recollects were part of the Franciscan order and were initially protected by Henri II and Catherine de Medicis Stage 7 - Rue Voltaire Named in honour of the philosopher of light who spent two months at Saint-Germain-en-Laye in 1729. - at nos. 2 to 6: Hôtel de Fieubet. Gaspard de Fieubet, advisor to King Louis XIV, acquired and embellished this mansion. It was reworked in the 19th century, unlike the one next to it (at no. 8) which has remained in its 18th century state. Stage 8 - Rue / Place Saint-Pierre - at no. 19: Hôtel de Folard, an 18th-century knight, soldier and military strategist. To the right of the door, a height marker decorated with the crown and royal cradle, indicates our altitude: 65.838 metres above the River Seine. At Place Saint-Pierre, the Colbert fountain originally faced the Château. It was restored, moved here and inaugurated in 1989. Stage 9 - Rue du Gast It has borne this name since 1700 in reference to a family of public figures, one of whom was a notary under Henri IV, another was a “garde manteau”, or forestry officer, under Louis XIV. - at no. 6, the façade features a little niche which shelters a statue of Saint Christopher. Opposite, through the wrought iron railings you can see the gardens of the Hôtel de Créquy, to which the entrance is located on Rue de Paris between nos. 10 and 12. Stage 10 - Rue du Vieux Marché The markets took place in this street from the moment they were initiated by François Premier in 1526. At the end of the 18th century, it was decided to move them to what is now Place du Marché Neuf, between Rue de Pologne and Rue de Poissy. Stage 11 - Rue des Louviers There are several theories as to where the term “louviers” comes from. It may be a deformation of the word “louvetier” meaning the officer serving as the Royal Wolfcatcher. Or, it may be a reference to the sheet merchants who came from the town of Louviers in Normandy. - at no. 15: The Institut Saint-Thomas-de-Villeneuve, the town’s oldest school, is still in use. - In the recess at no. 34, a niche shelters a statue of Saint Peter. Stage 12 - Rue des Ecuyers So-named since 1618, probably in reference to the numerous knights who lived in Saint-Germain-en-Laye along with their horsemen (“écuyers”). Opposite the school, you can see the coat of arms of Saint-Germain-en-Laye: a crib on a blue and gold background, with a fleur-de-lys. The inscription “5 septembre 1638” recalls the birth date of Louis XIV, who was born in our town. Stage 13 - Rue de la République - at no. 11: The chapel of the Institut Saint-Thomas-de-Villeneuve mentioned above (cf. Stage 12) features a peristyle built in 1788, with 4 Ionic columns. - nos. 24 and 26: Hôtel particulier of Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Longueville, whose second wife, Anne-Geneviève de Bourbon, sister of the Great Condé and the Prince of Conti, was renowned for her great beauty in the 17th century. The mansion was entirely reworked in the 19th century. - at no. 27: An 18th-century building that has remained intact since its construction. The small balconies are Louis XV. Stage 14 - Rue de Pontoise - at no. 16: Hôtel de Ville de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, established here in 1842 in the former Hôtel de la Rochefoucauld which dates from the 18th century. Stage 15 - Rue d’Alsace - at no. 11: Hôtel de Noailles. The sumptuous mansion of the three Dukes of Noailles, who were town governors until the French Revolution, was built by Jules Hardouin-Mansart. Mozart stayed here in 1778. Stage 16 - Rue Roger de Nézot Named after Roger de Nézot, who was a town councillor of Saint-Germain-en-Laye in the days of the Prussian occupation (1870-71). - at no. 9: Hôtel de Bontemps, who was Louis XIV’s first valet de chambre and confidant. Stage 17 - Place Charles de Gaulle You are standing opposite: • The Château-Vieux, which now houses the National Archaeology Museum. • The gardens of the National Domain. • Saint-Germain Church and its peristyle with 6 Ionic columns. Definitely worth a visit!

Come and spend a day among France's biggest monuments, all in one park! It's bound to appeal to both young and old! Prepare to explore France and its biggest landmarks in just a few hours by visiting the France Miniature park. Set off on a trip through France and discover 117 monuments reproduced at 1:30 scale and in the setting of a five-hectare park set out in the form of a map of France. Admire all of France's most beautiful sites, from Paris' most beautiful monuments in minature form, to Versailles, the Chateaux of the Loire region, the Auvergne Volcanoes, the Arles Amphitheatre, gothic and roman architecture, Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel and more... On this unconventional yet cultural tour you will find out the stories behind many French monuments. An attractions area, based upon the regions of France is also to be found in the park. Find inspiration for your future trips to France at France Miniature!

The Grand Trianon was built in 1687 by Jules Hardouin-Mansart. Thus, the King Louis XIV could escape from all the ceremony of the Court and relax in the company of his concubines. The Grand Trianon is based on the Italian architecture and invites you to poetry and wandering. One little story: the Grand Trianon used to be surrounded by thousands of flowers in pots that were changed every day. Even now, this tradition is carried on every season. The display was amazing: we could admire flowerbeds of all colours and we could smell lots of scents. Thereafter, the Grand Trianon was frequented by Napoleon Bonaparte and the French Presidents.

The Petit Trianon was built between 1763 and 1768 by the architect Gabriel, requested by Madame de Pompadour, mistress then friend of king Louis XV. Mme de Pompadour was the former mistress of the king but still his friend. She was the instigator of this little palace, built by Gabriel from 1763 to 1768 near the botanical gardens and the new menagerie to entertain him with one of his passions : sciences. To please the Marchioness, always aware of the last trend, the architect changed his rocky aesthetics to adopt pure lines and cubic shape. It was the latest architectural style, called “the Greek style”. It is not as simple as it looks like : each frontage is different, built to reply to its surrounding : the Courtyard, the French Garden and its lovely pavilion, the Botanical Garden and the Flower Garden. Even inside we find a modern style. The decoration of the Small Trianon is more simple than the rest of the estate. It is not about materials, you will notice the absence of gold for example, but more about the fineness and elegance of the sculptures dedicate, like the palace, to nature. Sadly, Mme de Pompadour died before the completion of the Palace in 1764. Nowadays it keeps the souvenir of an other inhabitant : Louis XVI made a gift of the Trianon Estate to his queen Marie-Antoinette in 1774. She lived there a distant life from the court, maybe too distant for some of the courtier.

A special place, assembling a collection of objects associated with the famous French composer in the house where he was born: Claude Debussy's birthplace is located in the historic quarter of Saint-Germain-en-Laye. It was in this 17-century house in the town that Claude Debussy was born, on 22 August 1862, and spent his early childhood. His father ran a china shop on the ground floor. After the composer's death in 1918, it soon became the main gathering place of his many admirers. Once inside, you will discover a wonderful little inner courtyard, where a splendid wooden staircase will lead you up to the museum. The museum, officially recognised as a 'Maison des illustres' ('Houses of the Famous'), displays objects and photographs that help provide a better understanding of the composer's creative process. In fact, Debussy liked to surround himself with objects from different places and artistic movements, which influenced his music. For example, a Japanese lacquered panel, which came from his Parisian mansion, depicting two fish swimming under a willow, musically metamorphosed into 'Poissons d'or', a piano piece (1907). A small museum but a grand tribute to one of France's greatest composers!

ArrayYour Experience Use Your Passport to Tour the Château de Versailles Your ticket gives you access to the most famous places within the royal estate including the Royal Palace, the Park, Gardens, Marie Antoinette’s Estate, and entry to any exhibitions on show at the time of your visit. If you plan to visit on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, it’s worth paying the extra €8 for an upgraded Passport ticket, which includes access to the Musical Fountain and Garden shows. Learn About the French Monarchy with the Help of a Multilingual Audio Guide Upon entering the Palace, collect your complimentary audio guide from one of the two pick-up counters located on the ground floor, one at the entrance to the Apartment Ladies and the other at the entrance to the Gallery of Castles. Audio guides are available in 11 languages: Spanish, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese and Russian. Begin your visit by exploring the ornate King and Queen's State Apartments. Learn about the French monarchy and peek into the private lives of the infamous King Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette. Next, make your way to the glittering Hall of Mirrors. Designed to protect the ornate walls and ceilings from smoke, the hall’s 357 mirrors were strategically placed to reflect the light of candles. With just a few flames, the reflection from so many mirrors was enough to light up the whole hall! Explore 250 Acres of Gorgeously Landscaped Lawns and Fountains After admiring the inside of the Palace, head outdoors and take in the grandeur of the estate’s impressive architecture. Stroll along the cobblestone grounds, through the beautiful French gardens, and pass by the gorgeous Versailles fountains. Next, stop by the Estate of Marie Antoinette and discover the life and antics of the Queen at the Petit Trianon. Walk around the Village of the Queen and English gardens, then see where Marie Antoinette built her own house, a Mill, a Preparation Dairy, a Cave, a Belvedere and the magnificent Temple of Love where lovers get engage. At the Carrosses Gallery, travel back in time as you explore carriages, coaches, sculptures and other artifacts left behind by the French Monarch. If you’re short on time and would prefer to skip the long lines, a Versailles skip-the-line entry ticket will allow you to save your time. If you’d like to maximize your time at the palace of Versailles and get a more in depth Castle experience, click here. Each year, it is estimated that approximately 5 million people visit the Palace of Versailles, and between 8 and 10 million people walk its gardens. A place of immense beauty, Versailles stands as a symbol of France’s monarchy and its glorious history.

ArrayWhat to Expect Begin your visit by exploring the ornate King and Queen's State Apartments. Learn about the French monarchy and peek into the private lives of the infamous King Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette. Next, make your way to the glittering Hall of Mirrors. Designed to protect the ornate walls and ceilings from smoke, the hall’s 357 mirrors were strategically placed to reflect the light of candles. With just a few flames, the reflection from so many mirrors was enough to light up the whole hall! After admiring the inside of the Palace, head outdoors and take in the grandeur of the estate’s impressive architecture. Stroll along the cobblestone grounds and pass by the gorgeous Versailles fountains. At the Carrosses Gallery, travel back in time as you explore carriages, coaches, sculptures and other artifacts left behind by the French Monarch. If you’re short on time or would prefer to skip the long entry lines, a Versailles skip-the-line entry ticket will allow you to save anywhere from 1-3 hours of waiting. If you happen to visit the Palace on a Tuesday, Saturday or Sunday, consider opting for a Versailles Passport ticket and catch one of the famous water fountain and musical shows. Each year, it is estimated that approximately 5 million people visit the Palace of Versailles, and between 8 and 10 million people walk its gardens. A place of immense beauty, Versailles stands as a symbol of France’s monarchy and its glorious history.

Listed as a World Heritage Site for 1979 years, the Château de Versailles is one of the finest achievements of 17th century French art. The Château and the Trianon estate are open every day except Monday. The Château opens at 9am, the Trianon estate only opens from 12pm. The Park and gardens are open every day and free of charge (access to the gardens is subject to a charge on the days of the Grandes Eaux Musicales and Nocturnes and during the Jardins Musicaux). Access to the Park only through the Queen's Gate (for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles every day), through the Saint-Antoine Gate (for pedestrians and cyclists every day and for vehicles at weekends and public holidays) and through the Sailors' Gate (for pedestrians and cyclists every day) from 7am to 8.30pm, with the last access at 6.15pm in the high season and from 8am to 6pm in the low season The Hall of Mirrors, the King's Apartments, the Museum of French History: over the centuries, the Palace of Versailles, the seat of power until 1789, has never ceased to expand. At the beginning, it was only a modest castle built by Louis XIII for hunting. However, Louis XIV chose this site to build the palace we know today, a symbol of royal absolutism and the embodiment of French classical art. In the 1670s, Louis XIV had the Grand Apartments of the King and Queen fitted out. The most emblematic achievement of these spaces, places of parade and reception par excellence, remains the Hall of Mirrors designed by Mansart. In the following century, the extensions continued, notably with the construction of the Chapel and the Opera House. The Château now has 63,154 m2 divided into 2,300 rooms. Although the Château lost its vocation as the official seat of power in 1789, in the 19th century it had a new destiny: to become the Museum of the History of France, as desired by Louis-Philippe, who came to the throne in 1830. Many of the rooms in the Château then housed the new collections retracing the great events of French history, which were enriched until the beginning of the 20th century.

Relive the early days of the French Revolution. Follow your guide into the Royal Tennis Court, which is now a museum dedicated to the events of 1789! RELIVE THE EARLY DAYS OF THE FRENCH REVOLUTION. FOLLOW YOUR GUIDE INTO THE ROYAL TENNIS COURT, WHICH IS NOW A MUSEUM DEDICATED TO THE EVENTS OF 1789! It was in this room, once used for playing tennis, that the members of parliament from the Third Estate met together on June 20, 1789. They then vowed not to separate until France had its constitution. This vow has been known ever since as a pivotal event for French democracy: “We vow to never separate and to reassemble wherever circumstances require, until the constitution of the kingdom is established and consolidated on firm foundations.” The Royal Tennis Court museum was put in place to commemorate the centenary of that event and retraces the early stages of the French Revolution. Your guide will reveal all the details of that historic year and will give you anecdotes unknown to the public. Make the most of this tour to the “oath room” and learn all about the events from 1789! 

Versailles is renowned for its famous Palace but the city has many more points of interest! Spend 90 minutes with your guide discovering all the secrets of the city of Kings. VERSAILLES IS RENOWNED FOR ITS FAMOUS PALACE BUT THE CITY HAS MANY MORE POINTS OF INTEREST. SPEND 90 MINUTES WITH YOUR GUIDE DISCOVERING ALL THE SECRETS OF THE CITY OF KINGS! In order to set up the necessary services for the Court, Louis XIV created the city of Versailles in close proximity to the palace. As the former seat of power and birthplace of the Revolution, Versailles is an authentic multifaceted city!  During this guided tour, follow your guide as you discover either the Notre-Dame neighborhood or the Saint Louis neighborhood In the Notre-Dame neighborhood, admire the church (formerly the royal parish), hotel du baillage, and visit the market. You will also enjoy walking along the streets and listening to anecdotes from your guide. The Saint Louis neighborhood is typical of Versailles, and located near the King's kitchen garden. Here, see picturesque stone houses, visit the Saint Louis cathedral, and walk through the English garden. A living example of French history, Versailles today is an artistic and cultural city with many green spaces, and will surely surprise you!

This emblematic place was the theatre of the oath during which 578 deputies of the States General swore not to be separated until they had given a constitution to France. The French Revolution was begnning... Built in 1686 to meet the needs of the court of Versailles palace, the Royal Tennis court (royal tennis is the ancestor of tennis) was the scene of the Oath of June 20, 1789, which is when 578 deputies of the Estates General (which consisted of 1118) self-proclaimed themselves the National Assembly and swore not to break up before they had given France a constitution. The French Revolution was launched… During the Revolution, the idea was raised to replace the Royal Tennis court with a commemorative monument, but nothing was done before 1880, when the hall was turned into a museum in preparation for the centenary of that decisive event. Make sure you wear something warm, as the room is not heated!

Malowe Nature is an educational farm producing permaculture vegetables and fruit, with 3 fishing ponds for all ages ! In a shaded natural area, come and discover the many farm animals in semi-freedom at the foot of the Vaucouleurs: ponies, goats, alpacas, sheep, pigs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, etc. You can get close to them, observe and feed them. All the farm's feathered, furry and woollen animals are waiting to be petted and cuddled. Between fishing in the ponds, pony rides and outdoor games, your little ones will be able to have fun in an exceptional environment: the wooded countryside of the Vaucouleurs Valley. The farm's permaculture vegetable garden is located in a pastoral setting. Let the smells and tastes enchant you. Discover the original plants with the help of the explanatory panels that punctuate the visit to the educational vegetable garden to familiarise yourself with the plant world. The organic vegetable garden hosts permaculture workshops and training courses throughout the year.

The Donjon de Houdan is a 12th-century tower commissioned by the Counts of Montfort. This historic monument is also a cultural venue, offering exhibitions, concerts... The Tower (commonly known as ‘Le Donjon’), built in the 12th century under the reign of the Counts of Montfort, and listed as a Historic Monument since 1889, was designed to watch out for enemies and defend the territory. But in reality, its main role was to act as a deterrent, as it was reputed to be impregnable. Built on the site of an ancient Merovingian necropolis, it originally consisted of an enclosure and a master tower. The enclosure, which has now disappeared, was fitted with a circular turret to defend the gateway. The access door -via a drawbridge-, initially situated 4 metres above ground level and then raised to 6 metres in the 15th century, was the only access to the large room on the 1st floor reserved for the military chief. Sometimes associated with the Duchy of Brittany and sometimes with the crown of France, Le Donjon was given by Louis XIV, with the county of Montfort, to the Duke of Luynes. The latter sold it in 1800 to an innkeeper from Houdan, citizen Leroy. Successively owned by various familie, the place was bequeathed by the latter to the town of Houdan in 1903. It presents traces of its history through its numerous graffiti, some dating from the 17th century. Used as a reserve, then as a prison and later a water tower, it underwent a certain number of changes in order to adapt to its new functions. The water tower, whose first metal tank was installed in 1880, was functional until the 1950s. In 1952, a new, more solid concrete tank was built. The tank is still present to this day, as well as part of the concrete uprights used to support it. Le Donjon consists of a tower 15 m in diameter and 25 m high, flanked by 4 turrets of the same height located at the four cardinal points. MONUMENTAL WORKS Like any historical monument requiring renovation, the work on the dungeon was difficult and complicated due to the historical, architectural aspect and the planning constraints of the monument. No less than 3 and a half years of work were necessary to allow the site to regain a second lease of life and to be able to welcome the many visitors, curious to discover or rediscover this flagship monument of the Houdan landscape. From now on, young and old will be able to explore the dungeon from bottom to top!

The Plaine of Versailles, located in the Yvelines department, is a vast expanse of farmland and woodland. It is characterised by its open landscapes, cereal crops and woods. The plain offers panoramic views of the Château de Versailles and its gardens.

The prestigious national forest of Marly, former hunting ground of the kings of France, once stretched across the entire Versailles plain. It still hides many secrets. You'll have to venture into the forest to learn about its mysterious treasures! There are 1.7 hectares waiting to be explored on foot, by bike or on horseback. Go in search of the Domaine du Trou d'Enfer, the Désert de Retz or the Vallon de Chevaudeau, observing on your way the rich wildlife of this green haven just west of paris. The incredible viewpoints, bucolic scenes, historic sites, rolling landscapes and apiaries provide a unique chance to enjoy a breath of fresh air and a real change of scenery just outside Paris.

The Gally farm, located between Saint-Cyr-l'École, Bailly and Versailles, is a historic site that was once a priory and became part of the royal estate under Louis XIV. Listed as a historic monument in 1906, it illustrates the agricultural development of the region.

If you are looking for an unusual place to visit, Calvados Morin is the place to go in Ivry-la-Bataille. Calvados Morin is one of the oldest calvados producers, renowned throughout the world and specialized in the blending and ageing of up-market Calvados. The tour, guided by the cellar masters, starts with a little bit of history about the industry and a presentation of Calvados. You will then get to the originality of the place: troglodytic cellars hollowed out of the hillsides of the Eure Valley where hundreds of casks are stocked. A unique setting in Normandy, ideal for Calvados and alcohol ageing. After the tour that lasts about 1 hour, time for a tasting session with the cellar master.

Get on your bike and follow the cycle paths with the wind in your hair : they will lead you on a tour of the city's main monuments ! The park have about 800 hectares, made up of straight alleys, wooded spaces and cultivated fields. Borded by a wall with huge gates, the park keeps the entire estate in a green bower. It is open every day of the year, excepting during adverse weather conditions (snow, high winds, etc.). Free entrance for pedestrians and riders It is possible to access the park crossing the french gardens, ou directly by one of the following gates: - Queen's gate - Saint Anthony gate - Sailor's gate (Fees with a vehicle at the Queen's gate and Saint Anthony's gate).

Situated around the Grand Canal, the Park covers several hectares and is free to enter. Laid out between 1668 and 1679, the Grand Canal is André Le Nôtre's most original creation. Measuring 23 hectares, 60 metres wide, 1,700 metres east-west and 1,000 metres north-south, it provides a single view of the beauty and grandeur of the estate. Its dimensions were carefully designed by Louis XIV's architect to create a perfect perspective.

The Grande-Rue is the central artery of the old village which was inhabited by the craftsmen and the staff of the castle. It is lined with typical houses forming a beautiful homogeneous whole. At n ° 44: old house of the 16th and 17th century. At n ° 27: in the courtyard, typical rural house with balcony and covered gallery (16th and 17th). At n ° 23: the hotel of Gesvres (18th century), ruined by fire in 1775, then rebuilt. Note the “ mascaron “ above the balcony. At n ° 18: old cut-off corner house. At n ° 19/21: hotel of the 17th and 18th.

Louis XIV decided to build a new palace in the valley of Marly. The beginning of the works took place in 1679 and in 1684 the King was able to go there for the first time. The architect was Jules Hardouin-Mansart. The originality of this castle lies in its unusual architecture in the middle of the greenery. In the center is the square Royal Pavilion and twelve pavilions for the guests framed the gardens. The pools were powered by a hydraulic machine, pumping water into the Seine. This water was transported by the aqueduct of Louveciennes. Abandoned by Louis XV and Louis XVI, the castle slowly started falling apart. It was looted in 1789 then bought by a Parisian who set up a cotton mill and a fabric factory in. Napoleon installed his troops that will contribute to its destruction. There is no longer any visible trace of the castle, with the exception of the ground representation of the walls of the Royal Pavilion. To find out more : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_de_Marly

The restaurant "Le Clos du Pétillon" welcomes you to Théméricourt in the department of Val-d'Oise. We suggest you tasting fresh products of season through our traditional and local French food. And also traditional Corsican food. In a friendly atmosphere, taste our specialities house as the terrine of kako in the foie gras cloth. To the restaurant, you will find a beautiful wine list of Grand Crus which will accompany your entrances, dishes or desserts. Ask advice for the perfect agreement between dish and wine.

Find the cafe bistrot Hotel de Paris in Bièvres for a friendly moment. Looking for a counter to drink a "short black", wooden tables weathered by the time where enthroned crockery dish and large balloon glass, a good smell of cooking in the air? Welcome to our bistro! Here, the TRADI cuisine is queen and we share beautiful values. A table for 4?

The Clos Saint André Restaurant serves up refined dishes made with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The owners provide a friendly welcome and a warm atmosphere in a "handmade", craft-inspired decor that evolves throughout the year.

It is in a restaurant in the at the same time sober contemporary frame and colored in the red notes on bottom cremate, adorned with the paintings of the Danish artist Inger Birn and with Jean Campaque's sculptures the chef Pierre Négrevergne you made share a cooking to the crossing of the luxury gastronomy

The restaurant La Plage: exceptional Frame, unique terrace, a perspective in 180 °, Paris and the Seine in your feet

At the heart of the luxuriant garden of the Quai Branly Museum, perched on the roof-terrace, the restaurant LES OMBRES offers a unique panoramic view on Paris, in the shade of her neighbor, the Eiffel Tower, which throws in the daytime its metallic laces on tablecloths and in the evening, fires the room.

A few steps away from the Eiffel Tower, Jérôme GANGNEUX and his wife Cathy proposes you a greedy cooking inspired by the traditional directory, in a smart contemporary frame. Conceivedin the bright tones, playing on the materials natural as the wood and the leather, this sophisticated space offers a warm atmosphere. 

Situated right in the heart of the "golden triangle", the luxury brasserie at Francis offers conditions favored to take advantage of the show of the most luxurious Parisian places. It is comfortably settled in this smart brasserie or in the terrace that you can admire the Eiffel Tower, in front of you.

OPEN EVERY DAY OF 10 hours(am) TO 2 hours OF THE MORNINGIt is with happiness and enthuses that Éric Frechon, Chef triply studed, took up the challenge. He imagined a cooking which looks like him

Rosa Bonheur joins in the tradition of the establishments of the beginning of the last century and is in Paris of today. " En attendant Rosa " is the terrace which precedes the opening of the barge Rosa Bonheur. Find on the terrace a selection of the products of the guingnette, the preparations are in free service at the counter, establish your tray and take advantage of the atmosphere.

Opening 02/04/2020 > 01/11/2020 Enjoy an unforgettable holiday escape at Huttopia Rambouillet in a remarkable forest setting that is at once close to Paris and in the heart of nature, with a beautiful natural swimming pool for you to cool off.

For a stay in the Parc du Marais and near the D-Day beaches. Located 10 minutes from Isigny sur mer, you can discover the landscapes of the Bessin and Cotentin marshes. We welcome you to our guest rooms in a peaceful natural setting. In the owners' home, a family suite upstairs with two bedrooms (1 bedroom with 1 x 160 cm bed and TV, and 1 bedroom with 2 x 90 cm beds). Possibility of gourmet evening meals with advance reservation The owners will be delighted to show you their animals (donkeys, goats, llamas).

Opening 02/04/2020 > 01/11/2020 Have a desire to visit Paris and the Palace of Versailles? Choose the Huttopia Versailles campsite! This 3-star campsite with a heated swimming pool is the ideal departure point for some wonderful family excursions!

An entirely renovated Campanile hotel which invites you to enjoy the calm of this residential district of Montesson Located 15 km from Porte Maillot, our establishment offers a strategic position for business travellers in north-western Paris. Close to Saint-Germain en Laye, Le Vésinet, Port-Marly and Le Pecq, the hotel is easily accessible from the A86, A13 and A14 motorways. Le Vésinet-Le Pecq RER train station (line A serving La Défense and the centre of Paris) is a 15-minute walk away, Use your leisure time here to visit the Palace of Versailles or the Château de Maisons-Laffitte, both within easy reach of our hotel which proposes bright, modern 3-star rooms in Montesson. Our rooms are air-conditioned and sound-proofed and boast a contemporary style. Recently renovated in line with New Generation standards, they feature all the modern comforts needed for a restful stay. The hotel has 3 specially-adapted rooms to accommodate people with disabilities. To make your stay even more pleasant, you can also enjoy the television channels Canal + and Bein Sport, free of charge. We have a restaurant and terrace, as well as a secured indoor car park. In its lush green setting, our restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is a modern, convivial venue that opens onto a shady terrace accommodating up to 35 people. Our chefs propose traditional French cuisine and seasonal dishes concocted from fresh ingredients. Our all-you-can-eat buffet menus for adults and children will satisfy every appetite,

Located in the heart of Impressionist country, close to Paris, Saint-Germain-en-Laye and Versailles, the serviced apartments of Residhome Carrières La Défense benefit from an outstanding location. The residential hotel is close to the picturesque town centre, restaurants and shops. It is within easy reach of Paris and the business district of La Défense, with fast access to RER A and Transilien rail services. Carrières-sur-Seine is a town with a country feel. For nearly two centuries it has been the charming green backdrop to pleasant walks, with its Parc de la Mairie (a classified "monument historique" site), washhouse, tithe warehouse, troglodyte houses, windmill, etc. Other sites and features in the area include: the Château de Versailles, the Château de Monte Cristo, a ride aboard the Dénicheur, the Impressionist cruise, the Serre aux Papillons (butterfly farm), the Parc Zoologique de Thoiry, and the Club Hippique de la Jonction at Saint-Germain-en-Laye (riding stables - hacking in the national forest), the Golf de l'Ile Fleurie, etc.

Between Evreux and Dreux, close to the town centre and its shops, the motorhome service point in Saint-André-de-l'Eure offers free landscaped spaces to park your motorhome. Each space is covered in grass and bordered by hedging shrubs for more intimacy and comfort.

A villa-like hotel, the BEST WESTERN Montcalm is set in the residential quarter of the 15th arrondissement, nestled among the flowers and quiet of a beautiful garden.

Welcome to Paris in a hotel in the refined comfort! The Alyss Saphir Cambronne Eiffel hotel ** is situated in the district of the Champ de Mars, close to the Eiffel Tower and near the Exhibition center of the Porte de Versailles.

An Ideal Hotel for your business trips and your holidays in family, situated between the Eiffel Tower, the station Montparnasse and the exhibition center of the Porte de Versailles

The hotel Ibis Paris cambronne Eiffel Tower is situated at the heart of Paris a few minutes away from the Eiffel Tower, of Bateaux Mouches and the Champs-Elysées. The Station Montparnasse is 2 subway accessible on foot stations or by car.