Chantilly isn’t only a wonderful alternative to Versailles for those who want to escape the busloads of tourists, but it’s also a nice daytrip for Parisians in need of some fresh air. Getting there isn't simple, though.
Tag - castles
In 2006 I went to the Château de Bourdaisière to interview Prince Louis-Albert de Broglie, aka Le Prince Jardiner, about his world-famous Tomato Conservatory for France Magazine’s Loire Valley edition. The only thing I knew about the Prince Jardinier was that...
The crowds have kept me away from Versailles for many years, but when I announced it wouldbe open to a restricted number of visitors after Covid-19 lockdown, Secrets of Paris readers Karl and Marsha booked their visit right away. Here is their report, with...
Despite all of the wonders and delights of Paris that I've discovered in my 18 years of living here, even I have to begrudgingly admit that when it comes to "must see sights", the reality can often be a huge let down compared to the fairy tale image many...
The Duke D'Aumale's princely apartments at the Château de Chantilly will be reopened this month after several years of careful renovations.
For all of you Marie-Antoinette aficionados out there, the Centre des Monuments Nationaux has quietly launched a special new Pass’ Marie Antoinette good for four lesser-known monuments in and around Paris that have a strong connection to the young French...
If you’re in the mood for bucolic country hikes, medieval fortress ruins, and secluded château visits less than an hour from Paris, head to the Natural Regional Park de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse. Vallée de la Chevreuse, Château Breteuil, Château de la...
Traveling to France is exciting anytime of the year, but going for Christmas is a vacation you won't soon forget.
The Château Vaux-le-Vicomte is hosting a three-day chocolate show, Palais du Chocolat, featuring awesome chocolate sculptures, tastings and demos November 9-11.
A very unique, once-in-a-lifetime event! Participate in an unforgettable evening April 7th at the gorgeous Château de Chantilly and its Grand Stables, with dinner and music in the presence of legendary French actress Leslie Caron and couturier Hubert de...
Last week I got to spend six days guiding a group of South African garden enthusiasts around the private gardens of the Ile de France, from tiny kitchen gardens to vast chateau gardens. Here are a handful of the hundreds of photos I took.
Avoid the crowds and the lines at the Grand Palais (and other Parisian "must see" monuments and museums) by checking out some of the lesser-known sights around town. Here are three of Heather's favorites.
