Age
0+
Group size
1-3
Transport
On foot
Language
English
Duration
3 hours 30 minutes
About this experience
Just 35 kilometers from Paris, there is a valley that used to be a favorite hunting ground of French kings in the past, and now it is the official country residence of the President of France. You will see picturesque hills with broadleaf forests flowing down them, castles, ancient abbeys linked to prominent figures in French history, authentic villages that have preserved their unique charm.
What to Expect
- The excursion route takes you through picturesque villages where every stone is steeped in history. These places miraculously avoided 'plastic surgery' and mass development spilling over from the edge of Paris. You won't find this route in standard guidebooks.
- The 12th-century Madlen Fortress. Francis I gave it along with neighboring estates to the husband of his favorite. In the 17th century, it was restored by one of the prominent playwrights, Jean Racine.
- The Dampierre Palace, whose walls still remember the tumultuous Duchess de Chevreuse, known for her beauty and constant intrigues. Later, it was expanded by Jules Hardouin-Mansart for Colbert's son-in-law, who held lavish celebrations during the reign of Louis XIV.
- The 12th-century Vau-de-Cernay Abbey and the castle of a genuine marquis (by the way, he has Russian roots). Marcel Proust, the Prince of Galilee, and the world-famous storyteller Charles Perrault have visited here.
- Visiting farms (optional). You will have the opportunity to visit a snail farm, cheese farms, and a pastry shop that won the competition for the best macarons in France. You can visit these places and, of course, try everything.
Organizational Details
On the website, you pay 25% of the cost, and the remaining amount is paid to the guide on the spot (in euros or rubles).
How the Excursion Works
- The starting point is the final RER station in Saint-Remy-les-Chevreuse (travel time from Notre Dame de Paris is 45 minutes, trains run every 12 minutes). I will meet you at the station by car, and we will begin our exciting journey. In this case, the number of participants is no more than 4 people.
- Visiting farms is possible by prior reservation and for an additional fee. The duration of the excursion is extended in this case.
Additional Expenses
- Tastings at farms
- Admission tickets to the abbey on weekends and holidays 8 euros
- Admission tickets to the marquis' castle 16.40 for adults and 13.40 for children
- Also, upon your request, I can arrange a transfer (including a minibus).
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