All about the Versailles Park

About the Versailles Park

The Versailles Park, a masterpiece of 17th-century French landscape architecture, invites visitors on a journey through meticulously designed spaces. Expansive lawns, sculpted into intricate parterres, stretch towards the horizon, while towering hedges create a sense of order and grandeur. The iconic Grand Canal bisects the landscape, reflecting the sky and surrounding architecture, while the serene Lake of the Swiss Guard offers a tranquil counterpoint. As you wander, you'll encounter magnificent fountains, and perhaps even glimpse the Ru de Gally, a smaller stream that meanders through the park, showcasing the ingenuity of human engineering and the harmonious blend of human artistry and natural beauty.

Explore the Versailles Park

The Grand Canal

André Le Nôtre's masterpiece, the Grand Canal, is the centerpiece of the Versailles gardens. This 1,670-meter waterway, a product of 11 years of ambitious construction from 1668 to 1679, dramatically reshaped the Palace landscape. The canal served as a vital element of the palace's hydraulic system. It hosted lavish royal events, from parties to boat rides, and an ice rink during winters. Today, the canal hosts special events like the annual July 14th fireworks display. In a contemporary touch, Danish artist Olafur Eliasson added a captivating waterfall to its eastern end in 2016, enhancing its allure for modern visitors

Lake of the Swiss Guard

The 12-hectare body of water in the southern part of the Versailles Gardens was created between 1679 and 1686 to replace a marshy old pond. This ambitious project, undertaken to improve drainage, also marked the end of the main north-south axis of the gardens, culminating at the Neptune Fountain. Today, the lake remains a prominent feature of the Versailles landscape, offering visitors a serene escape. Enjoy peaceful walks along its shores, admire the surrounding greenery, and keep an eye out for small wildlife.

Rivulet of Gally

The Ru de Gally or Rivulet of Gally is a 22-kilometer stream originating in the Versailles Park, showcasing the Estate's biodiversity. Flowing from the Grand Canal, it meanders through diverse zones, offering sightings of frogs, dragonflies, and various bird species. A pleasant walk along its banks, especially in spring when water irises (resembling the royal fleur-de-lys) bloom, provides a tranquil escape within the grandeur of Versailles. The Palace encourages visitors to explore this unique ecosystem, highlighting its rich variety.

Versailles Park - frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours of Versailles Park?

Versailles Park opens daily at 8:00am. It closes at 8:30pm from April to October, and at 6pm from November to March. Last admissions are typically 30 minutes before closing.

Is there an entrance fee for Versailles Park?

Entry is free for pedestrians and cyclists. Vehicles are subject to an entrance fee. Free parking is available for individuals with reduced mobility upon presentation of official proof.

What activities can I enjoy in Versailles Park?

Visitors can indulge in boating on the Grand Canal, cycling along designated paths, and leisurely walks through wooded areas and agricultural fields. Boat and bicycle rentals are available on-site.

Is picnicking allowed in the park?

Yes, picnicking is permitted in designated areas within the park.

Are pets allowed in Versailles Park?

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Are guided tours available in the park?

No, the park is open to explore by yourself

Are there restrooms available in the park?

Yes, there are restrooms at various points within the park for visitor convenience.

Can I rent a bicycle or boat in the park?

Yes, rentals for bicycles and boats are available near the Grand Canal, allowing visitors to explore the park's vast landscapes.