The entire 800-hectare (2,000-acre) park is laid out according to a precise symmetrical plan. From the terrace behind the castle, there is an astounding view that runs past two parterres, down a central lawn (the Tapis Vert), down the Grand Canal and seemingly on into infinity. Le Nôtre’s masterpiece is the ultimate example of French-style gardens; geometric, logical, and in perfect harmony—a reflection of the divine order of the cosmos. Given that the Sun King was the star of this particular cosmos, a solar theme is reflected in the statues and fountains along the main axis of the perspective; the most magnificent of these is the Apollo Fountain, where the sun god emerges from the waves at dawn on his chariot. On the sides of the main axis, near the castle, are a set of six groves, or bosquets, leafy minigardens that are hidden by walls of shrubbery; some were used as small outdoor ballrooms for festivities, others for intimate rendezvous out of reach of the prying eyes of the court. Today, you can picnic, bike ride (bikes can be rented next to the restaurant La Flottille), rent a Segway (from opposite side of the Grand Canal), or even row a boat on a sunny day.
Versailles
Travel Guide
Versailles› Attraction
Versailles Gardens
pl. d'Armes
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Versailles
Hours
Apr–Oct daily 7am–8:30pm; Nov–Mar daily 8am–6pm
Phone
01-30-83-78-00
Prices
Free except during evening fountain shows (see "Planning a Trip")
Web site
The Chateau of Versailles
Map
pl. d'Armes VersaillesNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.