Palace of Versailles Park | Uncover the Stunning Canal And Lake

Overview Of Palace Of Versailles Park

The Palace of Versailles, also known as Château de Versailles, is a magnificent royal residence located in Versailles, France. The palace was originally built as a hunting lodge in the 17th century, but it was later expanded and transformed into an opulent palace by King Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. Today, the Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous and visited attractions in France, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The palace is located just 20 kilometers southwest of Paris and is easily accessible by train or car. The palace complex includes the main palace building, several beautiful gardens, and a large park. The park is one of the largest in Europe and covers an area of over 800 hectares. It is home to numerous fountains, canals, lakes, and gardens, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Explore The Park at The Palace of Versailles

The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal is undoubtedly one of the most striking features of the Palace of Versailles. It is a massive body of water that stretches for over 5 kilometers and is lined with stunning gardens and fountains. The canal was originally built in the early 1660s by Louis XIV's landscape architect, André Le Nôtre, as part of his overall design for the gardens. The Grand Canal was designed to be a visual centerpiece of the garden and was intended to be used for boating and other recreational activities.

At the time of its construction, the Grand Canal was the largest body of water in the gardens, and it remains so today. The canal is over 60 meters wide and features a number of fountains and statues, including the Bassin de Neptune, which is located at the southern end of the canal. The Bassin de Neptune is a large fountain that features a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, surrounded by several other mythological figures. The Grand Canal is a popular attraction for visitors to the Palace of Versailles. It is possible to rent a rowboat or a pedal boat to explore the canal and enjoy the surrounding gardens. There are also several walking paths that run alongside the canal, allowing visitors to take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Recommended Read: Activities to Do in Palace of Versailles

Lake Of The Swiss Guard

Another notable body of water in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles is the Lake of the Swiss Guard. This small lake is located near the Grand Trianon, a pink marble palace that was built by Louis XIV as a private retreat. The lake is named after the Swiss Guard, a group of soldiers who have been responsible for the security of the palace since the 18th century.

The Lake of the Swiss Guard is relatively small, measuring just over 70 meters in length and 50 meters in width. Despite its size, the lake is a popular spot for visitors to the gardens. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and features several small islands, adding to its charm and beauty.

Must Visit: Gardens of Palace of Versailles

Rivulet Of Gally

The Rivulet of Gally is another body of water that is worth exploring in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles. This small stream runs through the gardens, connecting several smaller bodies of water and adding to the overall beauty of the landscape. The Rivulet of Gally is named after the nearby village of Gally, which was once known for its fruit orchards and vegetable gardens.

The Rivulet of Gally is relatively narrow, measuring just a few meters in width. However, it is an important element of the garden's design, as it provides a naturalistic element to the otherwise formal and geometric landscape. The stream is lined with lush vegetation, including willow trees, reeds, and water lilies, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Also Read: Plan Your Visit to Palace of Versailles

Know Before You Go to Palace of Versailles Parks

Essential Information

Accessibility

Opening Hours of the Park: The Park is open every day, year-round, from 8:00 AM until sunset. However, the opening hours may vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to check the official website before planning your visit.
Best time to Visit the Park: Visit the park during the spring and summer months, from April to October. The gardens are in full bloom during this time, and visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of the flowers. The musical fountains show, which features music and water displays in the garden, also takes place during this time. However, it is important to note that these months can be crowded and lines can be long. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the fall or winter months when there are fewer tourists, although some parts of the garden may be closed during this time. It is also recommended to visit on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid crowds.
How to get to The Park:

By Bus: Take the bus from Paris to Versailles and get off at the Versailles Château stop. The park is a short walk from there.
By Train: Take the RER C train from Paris to the Versailles Rive Gauche station. The park is a 10-minute walk from there.
By Car: Take the A13 highway from Paris and follow the signs to Versailles. The park has several parking lots available.

You can Also Visit: Versailles Fountain