Less than an hour's drive from Paris, bordering the Hauts-de-Seine, lies the royal department of Yvelines. You will find the most beautiful castles in France and beautiful castle gardens. Enjoy the vast and unspoiled nature on the many hiking trails that this green department has to offer. It is not without reason that this department owes its name to the ancient forest of Yveline, of which the current forest area near Rambouillet is a relic.
Immerse yourself in French history by visiting the castles of Yvelines. An absolute must is that of Versailles. It is not only one of the best known, but with its 700 rooms and over 2500 windows it is certainly also one of the most spectacular castles in the world. Follow in the footsteps of the Sun King, Louis XIV, and marvel at all the splendor that he had installed in the immense castle. Or walk through the royal park full of classical statues, fountains, water features and shrubs. A lust for the eye! Other beautiful chateaux are also worth visiting, such as the castles of Monte-Cristo and Saint-Germain-en-Laye.
Do you want to discover even more impressive or romantic gardens? Then make a trip to neighboring Essonne, which is also known as the secret garden of Île-de-France.
During your holiday in Yvelines, a visit to Villa Savoy should not be missed. This white villa on stilts, built in 1930, is seen as one of the masterpieces of the famous architect Le Corbusier.
Did you know that Yvelines is also called the green lung of Île-de-France? This department consists of 30% forests where you can enjoy walking, cycling and horse riding, just like in the neighboring department of Val d’Oise. Discover the beautiful forest of Rambouillet where wild animals such as deer, deer, aurochs and wild boars grow up in their natural environment that you can watch from the many view towers. Or visit the extensive Regional Natural Park of the Chevreuse Valley where you can not only enjoy a wonderful walk on the many hiking trails that this varied nature park has to offer, but where there is also plenty to discover for culture lovers, such as the castles of Breteuil and Dampierre or the Vaux de Cernay abbey.
Another must, especially for families with children, is France Miniature in Elancourt; a beautiful recreation park in the shape of the map of France where you have seen the highlights of France within a day. In miniature form then.
In short: In Yvelines there is something for everyone!