Discover Evreux with HOTEL DE L ORME

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!

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!

The Grand Trianon was designed in 1687 by Jules Hardouin-Mansart to allow King Louis XIV to escape the excessive luxury of the Court and to safeguard his love affairs there. The site indeed exudes a sense of intimacy and refinement. The palace is inspired by Italian architecture and invites you to poetry and leisurely strolls. It was built on the site of Louis XIV’s former Porcelain Trianon. A little fun fact: in the past, the Grand Trianon was surrounded by thousands of potted flowers, which were changed every day. Today, this tradition is still maintained with each season. The spectacle was truly unique: flowerbeds bursting with blooms of every color and a wide variety of fragrances filled the air. Later on, the Grand Trianon was frequented by Napoleon Bonaparte and by Presidents of the Republic. From 1962 to 1966, General de Gaulle entrusted André Malraux, then Minister of Cultural Affairs, with the restoration of the Grand Trianon.

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. Madame de Pompadour, who wished to “relieve the king’s boredom” — though no longer his mistress, she remained his friend — was the instigator of this small château, built by architect Gabriel between 1763 and 1768. It was erected near the Botanical Garden and the new menagerie, as Louis XV had a keen interest in the sciences. To please the marquise, always at the forefront of fashion, the king’s architect broke away from the rococo aesthetic and adopted a cubic form with very pure lines, in keeping with the brand-new “Greek style” then in vogue. Its simplicity is only apparent, for each façade is different, designed in relation to the space it overlooks: the courtyard, the French Garden with its elegant pavilion, the Botanical Garden, and the Florist’s Garden. Inside, one finds the same modernity of style. Simpler than the rest of the estate, the decoration of the Petit Trianon lies not in lavish materials — gilding is almost absent — but in the refinement of its sculptures, in a château entirely dedicated to nature. Madame de Pompadour died in 1764 and never saw the château completed. Today, it is above all the memory of Marie-Antoinette that it evokes. In 1774, Louis XVI gave the Trianon estate to his wife, who was able to live here a life apart — too much so for some — from the Court.

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.

Since 1979, the Palace of Versailles has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stands as one of the finest masterpieces of 17th-century French art. The Palace and the Trianon Estate are open every day, except Mondays. The Palace opens at 9 a.m., while the Trianon Estate opens only from 12 p.m. The Park and Gardens are open daily with free admission (access to the Gardens is ticketed on the days of the Musical Fountains Shows and Night Fountains Shows, as well as during the Musical Gardens). You can only access the Park via: the Queen’s Gate (Grille de la Reine, entrance for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles every day), the Saint-Antoine Gate (Porte Saint-Antoine, pedestrians and cyclists every day, vehicles only on weekends and public holidays), the Matelots Gate (Grille des Matelots, pedestrians and cyclists every day), from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with last entry at 6:15 p.m. in high season, and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in low season. By exploring the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s State Apartments, and the Museum of the History of France, you step into a palace that, until 1789, was the heart of royal power and continued to evolve over the centuries. Originally, Versailles was nothing more than a hunting lodge built by Louis XIII. But it was here that Louis XIV chose to construct the majestic palace we know today, a symbol of absolute monarchy and French classical art. In the 1670s, Louis XIV commissioned the construction of the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments. The most emblematic creation of these ceremonial spaces is undoubtedly the Hall of Mirrors, designed by Mansart. During the following century, the palace kept expanding, with major works such as the Royal Chapel and the Opera. Today, the Palace covers 63,154 m², spread across 2,300 rooms. Although the Palace lost its role as the seat of power in 1789, in the 19th century it was given a new purpose: to become the Museum of the History of France, an idea launched by Louis-Philippe, who ascended the throne in 1830. Many rooms of the palace were then transformed to house collections recounting the great moments of French history, enriched until the early 20th century.

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.

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.

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!

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! 

In Evreux, capital city of the Eure in Normandy, this impressive cathedral combines all the main trends of religious architecture. Built in the 10th century, the nave has kept the semi-circular arcades from the Romanesque period while the upper parts were rebuilt in the 13th century in the Gothic style with the transept and the choir. You will be amazed by the 70 stained-glass windows considered as masterpieces of French 13th to 16th century stained-glass art and the 13 radiating chapels enclosed with wood fences sculpted between the 15th and the 18th centuries, which are among the most beautiful ones in France.

A history book of civilisations that invites visitors to look back at the 2,000 years of history that have shaped this territory. Follow the trail available to guide you and help you discover the architectural heritage - Gallo-Roman remains, Notre-Dame d’Evreux Cathedral, the bishop's palace, the Belfry, the post-war reconstructions, etc. - typical of these periods!

In Evreux, in the heart of Normandy, travel through time thanks to history and art from the Paleolithic Period to the 21st century. Located in the former bishop's palace of Evreux since the 1960s, the museum houses varied collections that will suit all tastes. On the ground floor, two rooms are dedicated to the local history and are followed by the Chapter House which holds religious art collections from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period. Do not miss the most beautiful pieces of the archaeological collection displayed on this floor at the moment: the bronze statues of Jupiter (1st century) and Apollo (3rd century). The archaeological crypt, located in the basement, regularly holds temporary exhibitions dedicated to archaeology. It also houses a meditation area for the children, where experiments and observation activities allow them to discover the city's Gallo-roman fortification wall, all along the length of the room. The upper floors display furniture, ceramic pieces, decorative arts and Flemish, Italian and French paintings from the 17th to the 20th centuries (including major Abstract artists such as Pierre Soulages, Zao Wou-Ki and Hans Hartung).

Founded in the 10th century close to a former Roman Road by the 3rd Duke of Normandy, this church has been rebuilt twice, which explains the mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Take a look at the many references to Saint Taurinus, the 1st bishop of Evreux, on the southern gate and the stained-glass windows, and at the splendid 13th century reliquary box. Religiously kept in a chapel, this exceptionally delicate work of goldsmithing is the only one of its kind in the world and is covered with gold leaf...

This lush public garden is located in the heart of Evreux, capital city of the Eure Department in Normandy. Located a stone's throw away from the Capucins Cloister, the François Mitterrand Parc provides a feeling of escape thanks to its gentle slope. Go down the stairs on the left to look down on the pond and take time to visit the greenhouses and the orangery. Along the steep path, three bronze statues representing Antinous, Hercules and Telephus, and Diana, goddess of the hunt, are keeping an eye out for you. Halfway, the children will enjoy the playground as well as the cave and the waterfall.

In Evreux, capital city of the Eure Department in Normandy, go and have a look at more than 1,000 plants coming from all over Europe. You will be surprised by this 600 sq. metre (717 sq. ft.) garden located in the Saint-Michel neighbourhood in the hills above Evreux. No need to classify this garden’s style, it is unique. Gathering more than 1,000 plants coming from all over Europe, it has been designed by François Simonaire, who as a passionate gardener knew how to mix styles to get year round interest and colours. You will be impressed by the density and quantity of plants it holds, including rare or little-known ones. Each plant has its place to create this lush setting. Water and ornaments are also particularly present in this garden, which looks like its creator: generous, bold... providing a mass of optimism that makes life more beautiful!

Close to Evreux, learn more about the history of an important Gallo-Roman city. Two thousand years ago, Gisacum was an exceptional city due to its size and its impressive monuments. This archaeological site allows you to explore this city thanks to the interpretation centre that explains the history of its foundation and the discovery made by archaeologists. The ruins of the public baths have pride of place in the archaeological garden, an original and educational setting as well as a pleasant place for a walk. With an antique city covering 250 hectares (618 acres), the site of Gisacum is still being excavated by archaeologists. The site organises activities and events for all audiences throughout the year (visits of excavation sites, workshops, exhibitions, etc.).

Air conditioned establishment, the relais d'Alsace offers a menu mixing Normandy specialities with dishes from Alsace. Do not hesitate to sit on the flowered terrace on warm days! 3 minutes away from the cinema, car parks nearby, the relais welcomes you 7 days a week, at lunchtime and in the evening.

In a simple setting that perfectly combines the charm of old beams, contemporary furniture and modern colours, Xavier Buzieux offers relevant seasonal dishes with surprising flavours. Known as one of the best restaurants in Evreux, food lovers are sure to spend a delicious time in a pleasant and elegant setting. By the reception, there is a little shopping corner where the chef sells a selection of local products.

In Gravigny, just outside Evreux, the Saint Nicolas is concealed behind a discreet facade. The chef and owner, Claude Sauvant, does not like routine in his cooking and makes a point of regularly changing his menu, working with high quality produce and looking for new recipes to please his customers. The menu is varied and suits all budgets and there are several rooms available including a large dining room with terrace that looks out to the garden. The wine list is interesting.

The restaurant La Terrasse is located on the bank of the river Eure. The Chef invites you to enjoy his cuisine made with local and seasonal produce while taking in the view of the water. You can also take time to enjoy a canoeing trip, try SUP boarding, play bubble football, etc. The restaurant also caters for events (weddings, christenings, birthdays, business meetings, etc.) whether for a buffet, group dining or a bucolic barbecue.

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.

Right in the centre of the capital city of the Eure Department, 800 metres away from the train station and a few steps away from the Belfry and the Cathedral, the Inter Hôtel de l'Orme comprises 39 spacious rooms. A warm, simple and welcoming place with a lounge and a private bar, and a wide range of restaurants nearby. The hotel's extra advantages: the Wi-Fi and satellite TV available in all the rooms, and if the mood takes you, the cinema is only a stone's throw away!

Spend the night in a former coaching inn in the heart of Evreux 200 metres away from the Cathedral! Ideally located in the heart of Normandy, 35 minutes away from Rouen and Giverny, and one hour away from Honfleur and Paris, the hotel features 19 bedrooms and a typically Norman restaurant where you can have dinner by the fireplace or on the terrace in summer. There is also a bar with a muted atmosphere ideal to relax and make new friends.

In Evreux, capital city of the Eure Department, stop at the motorhome service point located close to the city centre. This motorhome service point is ideally located to explore the city's historic and heritage sites and attractions. It comprises 6 parking spaces in a green landscaped setting and provides all the convenient facilities (Wi-Fi, electricity and water supply, etc.). Herbs to add flavour to your meals are available on site: mint, thyme, etc. thanks to a partnership with the association "Incroyable Comestible."

The Grand Hôtel de la Gare features 29 well-equipped, soundproofed bedrooms opposite the train station and a 5-minute walk from the city centre of Evreux. A useful place for your business trips or to visit the capital city of the Eure Department.

Spend the night in a hotel with a four-star comfort in the centre of Evreux! Fully renovated in 2012, the hotel Best Western Plus in Evreux is ideally located along the banks of the river Iton, really close to the Convention Centre and to the city centre. The 60 bright and spacious rooms are decorated with cosy trendy colours. An ideal place for your holidays or your business trips in Normandy with all the services and equipment of a four-star hotel with a good value for money!

Apartment hotel: rooms, fitted small flats (kitchenette with microwave, hotplate and refrigerator), with hotel services, reception 24h/24, 63 rooms with mod cons: private bathrooms, flat screen LCD, free Wi-Fi, closed and supervised parking.

A simple and successful stop at a reasonable price in the heart of the Eure Department. South of Evreux, close to the main road N13 and to the motorways leading to Rouen, Paris and Orléans, the Brit Hotel La Bonne Etape comprises 42 bedrooms (double, twin and triple) including two accessible for people with reduced mobility to meet all needs! The hotel's extra advantages: free Wi-Fi, free private and closed car park, a bar and restaurant with a terrace and a meeting room for corporate events. An ideal place for your business trip or for a stop between Orléans or Paris and the Norman Coast.

Did you dream of a vacation in a real cottage ? This one will fill you up ! Audrey and Grégory were keen to make this large house a warm cocoon, in tune with the times and really designed for your holidays. The cottage is comfortable and spacious : it offers 2 lounges, one of which is ideal for a moment of relaxation or games (children will love it !) And the other friendly near the wood stove. Another strong point, the large tree-lined garden will be a room in its own right where everyone will find their little area and their favorite activity, between games around the swing or ping-pong, and many others, a meal in tribe at the shade from the trees, or a nap away. You are here at the edge of a village, almost at the edge of the Iton which winds through this superb valley and below the forest : so many invitations to walk or to a real hike for athletes : the GR222 just passes in front of. Evreux, with all its leisure activities, friendly shops and services, is a stone's throw away. Entrance on the ground floor, bright and light living room with lounge area and wood stove, dining room and behind the bar the small kitchen with direct access to the rear terrace. A bedroom (double bed) with its bathroom, another large bathroom with a beautiful walk-in shower, and separate toilets. Upstairs, on one side 2 comfortable attic bedrooms, one with an office, and on the other side, a second living room installed on the landing with plenty of games and books (the staircase is protected), a bedroom also with sloping ceilings and a bathroom with wc. On the garden side, a hut for the little ones, a swing, Molkky's game, balls, ping-pong table... or even the deckchairs ! The shops are very close : supermarket at 2.4 km. For your convenience, linen is provided.