Unusual visits in Yvelines
To the west of Paris, the Yvelines shine thanks to the sumptuous Château de Versailles and the famous Thoiry Zoo. Nevertheless, the department is full of many hidden treasures.
Far from the beaten track, why not explore these few unusual places that could surprise you.
Listed as a historical heritage site, this landscaped park was created in the 18th century thanks to François de Monville, an architecture enthusiast.
On 17 hectares, you will be able to discover 7 picturesque, even extravagant architectural creations, called fabriques:
For this visit, bring good shoes and long clothes for your whole tribe.
Also note that there is an application for children that will allow you to answer games, quizzes and puzzles.
📍Address: Désert de Retz, allée Frédéric Passy, 78 240 Chambourcy
⌚️Opening hours: every Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. until October 26
💵Prices: from €5 to €10
Have you ever heard of this Russian Orthodox monastery nestled in the heart of the Bois du Fay?
Cross the monumental entrance porch and admire the sumptuous domes of the Byzantine-style building.
Built in 1938, the site contains many treasures, frescoes and icons. You will be captivated by the beauty of the place.
📍Address: Skit du Saint-Esprit, 7 avenue des Bruyères 78 320 Le Mesnil Saint-Denis
⌚️Opening hours: reservation required.
Continue your escapade with the former apothecary of the Saint-Germain-en-Laye hospital decorated with original woodwork and listed as a Historic Monument.
In this historic place, you will discover a large collection of objects such as earthenware pots, glass jars, boxes of medicinal plants and measuring instruments.
📍Address: Jardin des Arts, 3 rue Henri IV 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye
⌚️Opening hours: every day, Saturdays on request only.
💵Rates: free
Other sites to discover include the Villa Sapène in the heart of the Mesnil-le-Roi forest, the Château de Monte-Cristo or the Villa Savoye in Poissy.
Between Chartres and Versailles, discover our comfortable hotel, ideally located for your getaway in the Yvelines.
The menu at the La Table de Baptiste restaurant offers dishes cooked with fresh, seasonal produce. Little gourmets can enjoy a children's menu.
During your stay, let yourself be pampered in this oasis of tranquility. Enjoy the benefits of the sauna and hammam to eliminate toxins and relax. To prolong the experience, opt for a facial treatment or a manicure.
Far from the beaten track, why not explore these few unusual places that could surprise you.
The Retz desert in Chambourcy
Listed as a historical heritage site, this landscaped park was created in the 18th century thanks to François de Monville, an architecture enthusiast.
On 17 hectares, you will be able to discover 7 picturesque, even extravagant architectural creations, called fabriques:
- the Destroyed Column;
- the Tartar Tent;
- the Ruined Gothic Church;
- the Temple of the God Pan;
- the Little Altar;
- the Discovered Theater;
- the Pyramid Icehouse.
For this visit, bring good shoes and long clothes for your whole tribe.
Also note that there is an application for children that will allow you to answer games, quizzes and puzzles.
Practical information
📍Address: Désert de Retz, allée Frédéric Passy, 78 240 Chambourcy
⌚️Opening hours: every Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. until October 26
💵Prices: from €5 to €10
Le Skit du Saint-Esprit in Mesnil-Saint-Denis
Have you ever heard of this Russian Orthodox monastery nestled in the heart of the Bois du Fay?
Cross the monumental entrance porch and admire the sumptuous domes of the Byzantine-style building.
Built in 1938, the site contains many treasures, frescoes and icons. You will be captivated by the beauty of the place.
Practical information
📍Address: Skit du Saint-Esprit, 7 avenue des Bruyères 78 320 Le Mesnil Saint-Denis
⌚️Opening hours: reservation required.
The Royal Apothecary of Saint-Germain-en-Laye
Continue your escapade with the former apothecary of the Saint-Germain-en-Laye hospital decorated with original woodwork and listed as a Historic Monument.
In this historic place, you will discover a large collection of objects such as earthenware pots, glass jars, boxes of medicinal plants and measuring instruments.
Practical information
📍Address: Jardin des Arts, 3 rue Henri IV 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye
⌚️Opening hours: every day, Saturdays on request only.
💵Rates: free
Other sites to discover include the Villa Sapène in the heart of the Mesnil-le-Roi forest, the Château de Monte-Cristo or the Villa Savoye in Poissy.
Book your hotel in Rambouillet, at the gateway to the Chevreuse Valley
Between Chartres and Versailles, discover our comfortable hotel, ideally located for your getaway in the Yvelines.
The menu at the La Table de Baptiste restaurant offers dishes cooked with fresh, seasonal produce. Little gourmets can enjoy a children's menu.
During your stay, let yourself be pampered in this oasis of tranquility. Enjoy the benefits of the sauna and hammam to eliminate toxins and relax. To prolong the experience, opt for a facial treatment or a manicure.
