PARK AND GARDENS OF VERSAILLES NATIONAL ESTATE
2025
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Domain with fountains, marble or bronze statues, trellis cradles and topiaries
The success of Fouquet, Intendant of Finances, was so intolerable to Louis XIV that he decided to transform the hunting lodge into an estate worthy of him. He called upon those to whom the magnificence of Vaux was owed: the gardener Le Nôtre, the architect Le Vau and the decorator Le Brun. More than 25 years of work were necessary to shape what will become a world reference in terms of gardens, trianons, the Queen's Hamlet and the Water Theatre grove.
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Opening time and information on PARK AND GARDENS OF VERSAILLES NATIONAL ESTATE
Remarkable garden. Low season: open daily from 8am to 6pm. High season: daily from 8am to 8:30pm. Free admission. The gardens are subject to a fee in high season during the Grandes Eaux Musicales. Guided tour. Label Jardin Remarquable.
Members' reviews on PARK AND GARDENS OF VERSAILLES NATIONAL ESTATE
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Stepping into the Gardens of Versailles feels like entering a living masterpiece. Designed by André Le Nôtre over 40 years from the 1660s onward, these gardens epitomize formal French landscaping—symmetrical parterres, sculpted bosquets, and grand fountains all stretching toward the horizon .
Highlights include:
• Grande Perspective & Grand Canal: A breathtaking vista aligned perfectly from the Hall of Mirrors, with water and greenery uniting in architectural harmony .
• Fountains & Statues Galore: Over 50 ornate fountains and 300 sculptures depict mythological scenes—especially magical during the “Grandes Eaux” water shows .
• Bosquets & Hidden Groves: Intimate “natural rooms” secluded within lush foliage—once hosting royal festivities and still a delight to discover .
• The Orangery: A stunning 17th-century structure housing over 1,000 citrus trees—both functional and breathtakingly beautiful ().
???? New Interactive Features: Scan QR codes and “talk” to the statues via AI-powered chat—an innovative way to learn hidden stories .
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Visitor Tips:
• Most of the gardens are free to access, except during fountain shows when a small fee applies .
• Arrive early—ideally by 9 AM—and plan at least 2 hours to truly explore the vast acres .
• Bring water, snacks, and comfy shoes—plus consider renting a golf cart or bike to cover more ground ().
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Final Verdict:
The Versailles Gardens are a union of artistic grandeur and royal ambition—a place where nature and human creativity soar together. Whether it’s strolling through emerald parterres, marveling at dancing fountains, or feeling the hush of a secret grove, visiting here is truly unforgettable. ????
For a full immersion, time your visit during the musical fountain shows or try the VR experience to walk Mary Antoinette’s lost gardens. No matter the season, Versailles always has something magical to offer. #VersaillesGardens #LivingMasterpiece #RoyalSplendor
You can walk here all day.