The Chantilly estate is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the Oise region. Situated 50 km from Paris, this fabulous historic site has so much to offer. Of course, you’ll want to visit its fabulous château, but you’ll also want to take a stroll through its magical forest. And right in the heart of the forest lies a tiny castle surrounded by water: the Château de la Reine Blanche. A superb place, where you can wander freely…
A small castle hidden in the forest just outside Paris
This little-known, immaculately white château , hidden in the forest of Chantilly, looks like something out of a fairy tale. And yet, you’re not dreaming – it does exist. Built on the banks of the Étang des Loges in the XVIIIᵉ century, the largest of the four ponds on the Chantilly estate, this tiny château was once a lovely hunting lodge. Named “Château de la Reine Blanche” in the XIXᵉ century, many legends are still told about it. One of the most famous is that the château was haunted by fairies, also known as the Dames Blanches…
One thing’s for sure: there’s something truly magical about this place. In this protected and listed site, it’s not uncommon to come across hikers strolling along the banks of the four lakes, including Lac de Commelle, one of the most popular for its enchanting setting. In fact, these ponds were created in the 13th century as fishponds by the monks of the Chaalis Abbey. This marvellous abbey can still be visited today, and is famous for its magnificent old roses.
A château… and a waterside crêperie
As far back as the Romantic era, this site was already a favorite with intellectuals, notably Chateaubriand, who liked to spend time here to find calm and inspiration away from the city. Today, the château continues to overlook the lake, and amazes onlookers with its poetic setting. After your stroll, we recommend a coffee at the restaurant-crêperie “L’Etang d’Art”. A very cosy gourmet address, with a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside, just a stone’s throw (literally) from the château. The perfect way to recharge your batteries!
📍Location: Château de la Reine Blanche
🚶♂️Itinéraire hike: RER D, direction Oise, get off at Borne blanche station (40 minutes from Gare du Nord) then walk for a lovely hike along the lakes
🚅Itinerary to the château: TER from Paris to Orry-la-Ville-Coye (approx. 20 min from Gare du Nord) then 15-20 min walk