Louis XIII, Louis XIV and Louis XV have notably stayed in this estate, historically owned by the Dukes of Chevreuse and Luynes. Its proximity to Versailles, its game-filled valley and its entertaining activities (large parties, theatrical performances, fireworks, delicious dinners...) have made it, since its construction at the end of the 17th century, one of the favorite places of royalty.
Built in the classical style of Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the architect of Versailles, the Château de Dampierre is one of the largest in France. In the heart of the bucolic Chevreuse Valley (Yvelines), it is surrounded by a 400-hectare forest park delimited by a 14-kilometer (!) wall and has a 90-hectare park.
It is not surprising that this site, which has been listed as a historical monument since 1928, has inspired many filmmakers.
Patrice Leconte shot "Ridicule" there, Sofia Coppola several scenes from "Marie-Antoinette" and Diane Kurys images from her "Children of the Century".
Another artist, and not the least, inspired by this majestic site: Ingres to whom we owe 2 of the murals in the first floor gallery and who, for the background of his painting "The Odalisque with a slave », was inspired by the flowers of the garden designed by Le Nôtre.
The Luynes family, linked to royalty by a union with one of Colbert's daughters, owned the Domaine de Dampierre-en-Yvelines for nearly 4 centuries. Today it is managed by an enthusiast of 17th century art history and architecture, which makes it one of the largest private castles in France.
And if the marshes and oak forests of the former hunting reserve are a delight for fallow deer and pheasants, the "Dragonfly Trail" walk will amuse young and old alike with a circuit in the gardens (punctuated by QR codes to be scanned) allowing them to discover the biodiversity and history of the place.
The Chimera trail plunges visitors into a riddle: following in the footsteps of Louis XV, they must help the King find his gardener in a lost garden whose plans have just been discovered in the castle's attics!
In this rural setting, playgrounds also invite families to picnic or take a pony ride. Whether it's to get some fresh air, to marvel or to have fun, there are plenty of reasons to come to the Domaine de Dampierre-en-Yvelines. To prepare your visit go here.
Valérie from Comme des Français
---
Stay in royal company with these other articles