Book a private shuttle service from Versailles to Disneyland Paris

 

• Discover the Historic Gardens of Château de Versailles
• Explore the Grand Waters of the Gardens of Versailles
• Discover the King's Vegetable Garden in Versailles
• Discover Marie-Antoinette's Estate in Versailles
• Experience Le Hameau de la Reine in Versailles
• How to go by van from Versailles to Disneyland Paris ?

 

Discover the Historic Gardens of Château de Versailles

The Château de Versailles is a centuries-old historic monument, each part of which is distinct and remarkable. During your visit, don't miss the opportunity to explore the iconic Gardens of Versailles, a true masterpiece of French landscape design.

 

A Garden Rich in History

Nestled to the west of the château, the Gardens of Versailles were brought to life by the renowned architect André Le Nôtre in 1661. The extensive landscaping of the garden commenced simultaneously with the construction of the château, a process that spanned more than 40 years. It's noteworthy that the trees throughout the garden are replanted every century to maintain their health and grandeur. Occupying over 830 hectares of land, the gardens are home to an impressive 386 works of art, including 221 statues. The verdant expanse is divided into two main sections: the Grand Park and the Petit Park, with the Gardens of Versailles forming a significant part of the Grand Park.

 

The Varied Zones of the Garden

Designed in the classical French garden style, the Gardens of Versailles were carefully segmented into various areas to enchant visitors, and of course, the royal inhabitants of the château. These sections include groves, an orangery, sculptures, ponds, fountains, pathways, and flowerbeds. The groves are scattered across the garden, embellished with fountains, vases, and statues. The Gardens of Versailles also hold the distinction of being the world's largest open-air sculpture museum, featuring an array of statues cast in bronze, marble, or lead. The château's orangery boasts a vast selection of orange trees from Portugal, Spain, and Italy, as well as other species such as lemon trees, oleanders, palm trees, and pomegranate trees, some of which are over 200 years old. The ponds and fountains, meanwhile, depict various heroes from Greek mythology, contributing to the overall grandeur and historical aura of the estate.

 

Explore the Grand Waters of the Gardens of Versailles

 

A distinctive feature of the Gardens of Versailles is the incredible variety of fountains and basins. These grand waters provide a spectacular setting for awe-inspiring shows that take place each year.

 

An Introduction to the Grand Waters

The Grand Waters of Versailles were created in 1666 during the reign of Louis XIV. The garden boasts a total of 55 fountains and basins, among which the Apollo and Neptune basins are the most celebrated. The Apollo basin features a depiction of Apollo, the god of the sun, standing on his chariot. The chariot, drawn by four horses symbolizing strength and fury, emerges from the water amidst sea monsters to illuminate the Earth. The Neptune basin, meanwhile, pays tribute to Neptune, the god of the seas and oceans. It also features representations of Neptune's wife, the god Ocean, dragons, and Cupids. The construction of this magnificent spectacle spanned over a century.

The Grand Waters Spectacle in the Gardens of Versailles

Every summer, the Gardens of Versailles host the Grand Waters spectacle. The show comprises two major segments: the Grand Musical Waters and the Grand Night Waters. It's important to note that the Neptune basin serves as the venue for the finale of the Grand Waters show at the Palace of Versailles. The twenty-two central jets and the twenty-two additional jets gushing from vases adorned with marine animals, combined with an array of nearly one hundred special effects, provide a truly exceptional visual experience.

 

Two Breathtaking Shows to Stir the Senses

The Grand Musical Waters allow you to embark on a leisurely stroll accompanied by the fountains and the enchanting music that once animated them. This magnificent spectacle narrates a royal history that continues to captivate audiences. Lasting a little over two hours, the Grand Night Waters present the groves and fountains bathed in a thousand lights, casting an ethereal glow and illuminating breathtaking water bubbles. This spectacle captures the spirit of the lights that have illuminated the château for centuries, providing an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

   

Discover the King's Vegetable Garden in Versailles

Established in 1683, the King's Vegetable Garden in Versailles sprawls across 9 hectares of land. Classified as a historic monument and one of France's remarkable gardens, the vegetable garden also hosts the Ecole Nationale Supérieure du Paysage.

 

An Introduction to the King's Vegetable Garden

The construction of the King's Vegetable Garden in Versailles took place between 1678 and 1683. The garden was entrusted to Jean-Baptiste de La Quintinie, the director of the royal gardens at the time, under the direct orders of Louis XIV. The vegetable garden is located adjacent to the Swiss pond, not far from the Orangerie. The garden is divided into two main sections: the central part or "large square," and twelve individual 'rooms'. The King's garden also hosts an orchard, which contains over 5,000 fruit trees representing more than 400 different fruit varieties. However, it should be noted that the King's Vegetable Garden is not a conservatory of genetic resources. The collection of fruit trees and vegetable plants mainly stems from purchases from nurseries or donations.

 

Understanding the Function of the Vegetable Garden

Since 1991, the King's Vegetable Garden has been open to the public. Each year, a range of cultural events, including dance performances, exhibitions, and open-air theater performances, take place in the garden. Additionally, an event titled "Les Saveurs du Potager" (The Flavors of the Vegetable Garden) showcases and promotes the diverse array of fruits and vegetables grown in the garden. For gardening enthusiasts, guided tours led by knowledgeable guides are offered from April to October, but only on weekends and public holidays. Moreover, the King's Vegetable Garden holds demonstrations of different historical techniques in fruit and vegetable cultivation, thereby maintaining the mission of preserving traditional gardening practices.

 

Discover Marie-Antoinette's Estate in Versailles

Among the queens of French monarchy, Marie-Antoinette undoubtedly left the most indelible mark on Versailles. Her estate consists of various unique components, including the Petit Trianon, its charming theater and chapel, the pavilions of the French garden, and the Grand Trianon château.

 

The Petit Trianon

The centerpiece of the estate, the Petit Trianon, is a château that was constructed under Louis XV and subsequently gifted to Marie-Antoinette by Louis XVI. This square building spans three floors, with the central door opening onto an impressive grand staircase, adorned with a wrought iron banister. The queen's apartments and reception rooms occupy the first floor. Surrounding the Petit Trianon, visitors can explore the renowned sites that contribute to the palace's fame: the French garden, home to a chapel and Marie-Antoinette's intimate theater; and the English garden, featuring the Belvedere, the Temple of Love, and the Queen's Hamlet.

 

The Grand Trianon

Also known as the "Marble Trianon," this château was erected during the reign of Louis XIV. It was later occupied by Emperor Napoleon and restored by Louis Philippe. Originally, this château was built to provide the king a tranquil retreat, secluded from the rest of the world. Traditionally, visitors reached this palace by boat via the Grand Canal. The palace consists of two buildings linked by a peristyle flanked by columns. This Italian-style architecture provides an exquisite view of the garden with its vibrant flower beds. Further, the architecture features a ground floor topped by a flat roof, hidden behind a balustrade, lending the château a uniquely elegant aesthetic.

 

Experience Le Hameau de la Reine in Versailles

A visit to the Palace of Versailles would be incomplete without exploring Le Hameau de la Reine. Built in 1777 by Marie-Antoinette, this English garden is a unique feature within the vast property. A guaranteed change of scenery awaits you in this distinct haven.

 

12 Unique Spaces Not to be Missed

Le Hameau de la Reine stands out for its meticulous arrangement and its soothing atmosphere. The twelve distinct areas that compose this idyllic hamlet are beautifully preserved. These include the Farm, the Cleansing Dairy, the Marlborough Tower, the Old Preparation Dairy, the Old Large House, the Guard House, the Dovecote, the Billiard House, the Queen's House, the Réchauffoir, the Boudoir, and the iconic Mill.

 

Historical Background

The Queen's Hamlet was commissioned by Queen Marie-Antoinette herself. Construction began in 1777, driven by the queen's desire for her own personal space and a secondary residence to escape the courtly rigors of Versailles. However, the actual construction didn't commence until 1783 and was completed in 1786.

 

How to Visit the Queen's Hamlet?

As expected, the Queen's Hamlet is open to the public. During the height of the tourist season, it's accessible from 12 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. However, it's best to avoid visiting on public holidays and during official ceremonies to ensure an unimpeded exploration of this historic and enchanting spot.

 

How to go by van from Versailles to Disneyland Paris ?

67.1 km separate Versailles from Disneyland Paris. To begin the journey, take General de Gaulle Avenue and exit Versailles. The driver will take the A86 to Paris and Créteil. You will then have to continue on A4 / A86 / E50 (East Highway) and take Champigny tunnel. After entering Coupvray, it will still be necessary to go through Chessy. Just roll a few meters to reach Disneyland Paris.