With a population of over 80,000, this town boasts many beautiful green spaces. You'll easily find a park in Versailles where you can stroll and commune with nature. Of course, thanks to the formidable Versailles estate and its 815 hectares, the people of Versailles are not to be pitied. But for those who want to take advantage of the city's other green spaces and woods, the commune has plenty to offer. Take advantage of your visit to the Château de Versailles to take a stroll through the town's green spaces.
The grounds of Madame Elisabeth's estate
Also known as the Château de Montreuil, the Domaine de Madame Elisabeth is a 7.2-hectare park in the heart of Versailles. It bears the name of Elisabeth de France, sister of Louis XVI. Thanks to Madame Elisabeth's initiative, this royal residence housed a dispensary for the local poor. To this end, she also had medicinal plants grown in the kitchen garden of the Montreuil estate.
Today, while the estate is only open to guided tours, the park is freely accessible, with a winter closure from late November to late February.
Balbi Park
Some of the estate's features are the fruit of love stories. Among them is the Balbi park. Named after the Countess de Balbi, who was the mistress of the Count of Provence, himself the brother of King Louis XVI. This park at Versailles is open to the public, who appreciate its English garden layout. A pleasant, intimate place for lovers to stroll.
What about the château's gardens?
The French gardens and parks of the Palace of Versailles are free to visit. For the parks, you'll have to pay an entrance fee if you have a vehicle (motorcycle, car, coach). Before you head off to enjoy the talents of André Le Nôtre, be sure to check the dates of the musical water shows. On these days, the park and gardens are open to the public. Similarly, from April to October, you won't be able to enjoy the park's paths free of charge every day of the week.
If you'd like to get away from the glitz and glamour of the Versailles court, it's a good idea to imitate Queen Marie-Antoinette by heading for the Petit Trianon. Donated by Louis XVI, it was here that the queen lived independently, even though it was frowned upon at court. Around a large lake is a Norman-style house with a real farmhouse. This is the Hameau de la Reine.