Château de Versailles

VERSAILLES is probably the most opulent and extravagant example of the decadence of the French court. This was the Sun King’s (Louis XIV) testament to his achievement and wealth – this was his commissioned palace. It served as the principal residence of the French kings from Louis XIV to Louis XVI and exemplifies, with all the extravagant embellishments commissioned with each reign, the ultimate royal palace. Straight out of our childhood history books, experience the famed Hall of Mirrors but also be sure to take the beautiful walk through the forest of Versailles to Marie Antoinette’s charming dollhouse dairy. Just a few miles distant in the direction of Trianons, in autumn the ground is cushioned with a carpet of gold and orange leaves, in winter, the bare, gray and brown trees contrast with the virgin snow – in any season, the walk is memorable. Driving: Take the Porte d’Auteuil off the Boulevard Périphérique following the A13 for a short distance to the outskirts of Paris. Take exit at number 14 and then follow directional signs. Travel by train: Using an extension of the Métro, the RER (Regional Express Network), take the C line, Versailles Rive Gauche to Château de Versailles. Also commuter trains depart regularly from the Montparnasse station.