The Palace of Versailles, located in Versailles, France, is one of the most famous and magnificent palaces in the world. However, what many people may not know is that the palace is surrounded by an expansive park that is just as impressive as the palace itself. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Park of the Palace of Versailles and all it has to offer.

History of the Park

The Park of the Palace of Versailles was originally designed in the 1660s by landscape architect André Le Nôtre. Le Nôtre was also responsible for designing the gardens at the Palace of Fontainebleau and the Tuileries Gardens in Paris.

Le Nôtre's vision for the park was to create a grandiose landscape that was both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The park was designed to be a place where the king and his courtiers could escape from the formalities of court life and enjoy leisurely activities such as hunting, boating, and walking.

The Park Today

Today, the Park of Palace of Versailles covers over 800 hectares and features a variety of gardens, fountains, canals, and sculptures. Visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring the park and all it has to offer.

One of the most iconic features of the park is the Grand Canal, which stretches over 1.5 kilometers long and is lined with hundreds of trees. Visitors can rent rowboats or take a boat tour to fully appreciate the beauty of the canal and the surrounding landscape.

The park is also home to a number of smaller gardens, each with its own unique style and features. The Orangery Garden, for example, is home to over 1,000 orange trees that are housed in greenhouses during the winter months. The Fountain Garden is another popular spot, featuring a variety of fountains and statues that come to life during the summer months.

One of the most impressive parts of the park is the Parterres, a collection of ornate gardens that surround the palace. These gardens feature intricate patterns of flowers, hedges, and gravel that are meticulously maintained year-round.

In addition to the gardens, the park also features a number of pavilions, statues, and other architectural features that are worth exploring. The Grand Trianon, for example, was a residence built for King Louis XIV in the late 17th century and features stunning marble and gold interiors.






Visiting the Park

Visitors to the Park of the Palace of Versailles have a number of options for exploring the park. The most popular option is to purchase a ticket to the Palace of Versailles, which includes access to the park and gardens. However, visitors can also purchase a separate ticket just for the park if they prefer.

There are also a number of guided tours available that focus specifically on the park and its history. These tours are a great option for visitors who want to learn more about the park's design and the role it played in the daily life of the French court.

There are several ways to purchase the Versailles tickets. You can buy them online through the official Chateau de Versailles website, which is the most convenient and reliable option. 

Tips for Visiting

If you're planning a visit to the Park of the Palace of Versailles, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the park is massive, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and plan to spend several hours exploring.

Second, it's a good idea to bring a picnic lunch or snacks with you, as there are plenty of beautiful spots to sit and enjoy a meal throughout the park.

Finally, be sure to check the weather forecast before you go. While the park is beautiful in all seasons, some areas may be closed or inaccessible during inclement weather.