Our beautiful region is bursting with magnificent châteaux to visit this summer. Under the shade of the gardens or in the cool of the halls of these historic buildings, castles are the perfect summer destination for a change of scenery.
The historic capital of France for centuries, Paris and the wider Île-de-France region boast a unique cultural wealth. Museums, cultural centers, political establishments past and present… A whole region to explore, and discover its secrets. This summer, with the uncertain condition of our vacations, it’s now or never to focus more on what’s around us. Paris Secret invites you to discover the region’s most beautiful châteaux! Former royal residences, different architectural periods, treasures of elegance and refinement… Places that ensure the region’s international reputation, within easy reach!
The Château de Breteuil
A veritable nugget to be admired in the Yvelines, the Château de Breteuil is a jewel not to be missed. A château owned by the same family for 10 generations, lost in time. What’s more, the estate is located in a national nature park, making the château’s gardens one of the most magnificent green spaces in the region. And to add a touch of enchantment to this already enchanting château, wax sculptures created by the Musée Grévin depict characters from Perrault’s fairy tales throughout the estate. Puss in Boots, Little Red Riding Hood, Bluebeard, Tom Thumb… All there to entertain the little ones (or the grown-ups, we won’t judge) while the grown-ups admire the castle’s architecture. We’ll also try our hand at the labyrinth challenge, to feel like Cinderella.
Château de Breteuil, 78460 Choisel.
The Château de Fontainebleau
We won’t keep you waiting any longer to talk about one of the most beautiful châteaux on this list. What makes the Château de Fontainebleau so special is that it was built over 8 centuries. Its architecture has thus been marked by several movements over the years, from its medieval construction to its classical finishes, after a Renaissance transformation. With 4 museums, a vast estate and far fewer visitors than Versailles, the Château de Fontainebleau is a must-see. From Philippe Le Bel to Napoléon III, each resident has left his mark on the area.
Château de Fontainebleau, 77300 Fontainebleau. (Parks and gardens currently open, indoors from July 1, 2021).
The Château de Vincennes
Did you know that Europe’s tallest keep is located in the Paris region? At 50 metres high, the dungeon at Château de Vincennes outshines all its rivals. A truly imposing fortress at the gateway to Paris, the Château de Vincennes is the most beautiful castle to be discovered on the immediate outskirts of the capital. An authentic medieval building, surrounded by a 7-meter-deep moat, the château is only accessible via stone bridges, which give it all its character. After climbing 250 steps, you can also admire the breathtaking view from the imposing keep. And if you’ve finished visiting the château early, the Bois de Vincennes awaits you for a siesta in the shade.
Château de Vincennes, Avenue de Paris, 94300 Vincennes.
The Château de Malmaison
In Rueil-Malmaison, just a few kilometers from Paris, the Château de Malmaison is a historical treasure to be discovered. The private residence of the Bonaparte couple, bought by the couple in 1799, the Château de Malmaison underwent a complete renovation. Decorated in the style of Antiquity, the first floor resembles the atrium of a Roman villa. Before the couple divorced and Josephine took over the mansion, Napoleon held balls and other festivities here. Transformed by Josephine Bonaparte into a veritable botanical garden, the Château de Malmaison is a voyage of refinement and fresh air.
Château de Malmaison, Avenue du Château de la Malmaison, 92500 Rueil-Malmaison.
The Château de Versailles
The château that needs no introduction. But usually crowded, the tourist vacuum caused by current sanitary conditions prompts us to add the Palace of Versailles to this list, to remind you to go and visit this world treasure we have. The largest château in the world, its estate covers almost 900 hectares. Before the Revolution, Versailles defined more than 8,000 hectares! A rich, historic heritage still clearly visible today. A symbol of royal wealth and extravagance, Versailles has been home to several generations of French kings. With its gardens, Petit and Grand Trianon, Orangerie, Hall of Mirrors, Chappelle Royal and other magnificent monuments, Versailles is undeniably one of the most beautiful jewels in the Île-de-France region. The world, even.
Palace of Versailles, Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles.