Located in the heart of the Chevreuse Valley, Dampierre-en-Yvelines is a magnificent bucolic village situated on the water’s edge. It boasts a magnificent golden castle with a 400-hectare park, which rivals the Palace of Versailles, as well as a sublime house designed by… Gustave Eiffel. As you can see, this hamlet is anything but ordinary! And it is for all these reasons and more that this pretty village is in the running to become the French people’s favorite.
Dampierre-en-Yvelines: France’s favorite village in 2026?
This small village of around 1,000 inhabitants has everything going for it: a magnificent panorama by the water, a dazzling castle built in the 17th century by the architect of the Palace of Versailles , and 400 hectares of gardens designed by André Lenôtre. It is also the largest private castle in the region, and its stunning architecture will leave you spellbound. It’s no surprise that this jewel of our heritage has welcomed kings and queens of France. Listed as a Historic Monument, the estate was a hub of intellectual, artistic, and political activity. Interestingly, the entire village center was built around the castle, incorporating some of its architectural elements into the buildings.
© Chloé DAUMAL
Other attractions in the village include the only town hall-church in France and the impressive Maison de Fer (Iron House), built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition. And yes, it was indeed designed by Gustave Eiffel. Inspired by colonial architecture, this building is a fascinating architectural feat. Also listed as a Historic Monument, it can still be visited today.
An authentic village, full of charm, it is a wonderful playground for all lovers of nature and history. Among the 14 villages in the running to become France’s favorite village, will Dampierre-en-Yvelines win the title? You have until March 6 to vote here!