Discoveries in Courdemanche, Eure, Haute-Normandie

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 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.

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.

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.

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!

Between Evreux and Dreux, visit the war cemetery where are buried 19,794 German soldiers who were killed in Normandy during the Second World War. The cemetery was mainly built when the Allied troops moved towards Paris and the river Seine. The American Graves Registration Service had its soldiers buried there as well as German soldiers. A contemporary chapel was built in 1964 and a hall provides historical explanations.

Since its opening, the Wind Instruments Museum (the MIV) preserves, promotes and keeps alive the memory of the instrument makers, companies, men and women who have worked in the region. Created in 1888 by the village's wind instrument makers, the MIV displays an exceptional collection of flutes, oboes and clarinets from the 18th century to nowadays. Workshops, machines and tools that have been used to make music instruments present the art of wind instrument making that has been perpetuated in La Couture-Boussey since the 17th century. To learn more about it, themed tours, encounters with musicians and instrument makers as well as live music events are organised all year round.

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.

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.).

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!

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, 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).

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Relaxing place: a fireplace, cotton tablecloths and towels, elegant and cosy atmosphere, where the studied lighting enhances the works of the artists on display. In addition to the home-made preparation of breads, sorbets and ice creams, Jérôme Lambert also cooks seasonal, à la minute meals. Located at the traffic lights in Chandai, a small village eight kilometres from Center Parcs (Les Bois-Francs) and L'Aigle, the Ecuyer Normand offers a quality, fair table. Free Wifi. Dear guests, Within our establishment, we respect barrier gestures and social distancing. All our premises, furniture and equipment are regularly disinfected. Wearing a mask is compulsory for you (except once at your table) and the staff. Hydroalcoholic gel is available at different places in the establishment. Also in order to facilitate the respect of all the sanitary measures which are imposed to us by the current situation, we privilege the reservation. We look forward to welcoming you in our establishment.

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 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.

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.

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.

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."

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!

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.

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!

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.