Among the many pleasures of living in Paris is the city’s proximity to a wealth of grand, historic châteaux. Many of the best known – Versailles, Fontainbleau, Vaux le Vicomte and Chantilly – can all be reached by train within an hour or so, making them a perfect day trip. Additionally, the immediate region around Paris is also home to numerous smaller but no less beautiful châteaux, indelibly woven into the incredible heritage of the area. I’ve been making a point of seeking them out since living here, following my passion for French gardens, chateâux and design, which I know many of you share.
My latest adventure was to Château de Champs-sur-Marne, an exceptionally pretty and beautifully restored 18th-century country retreat only 20 minutes from Paris on the RER A train (plus a 25 minute walk from the station). Built between 1703 and 1707, and once the home of Madame Pompadour herself, it offers an intimate glimpse into an estate rich with royal associations throughout its history.
The rooms rival larger châteaux in exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, but on an accessible and human scale.
Chandliers, woodwork and wall paintings as breathtaking as any found at Versailles.
The extensive grounds offer tranquility and expansive views and, as you can see, on the early August weekday afternoon of my visit, were not crowded.
The intricate and graceful outdoor pavilion “Salon de Madame” (below) had been in a near ruined state, with the wood deteriorated to the point of crumbling. A painstaking restoration project was undertaken to bring it back to its glorious perfection. I felt very fortunate to see it not long after completion. It is located in a quiet area in the park, ringed with benches for contemplation or a peaceful summer picnic.
Each piece of wood has been cut and assembled by hand. See the link below for a video on the entire restoration process, which took five people over 18 months to complete.
I am so appreciative of the work of the Centre des Monuments Nationaux and other entities to restore and maintain these magnificent properties. Supporting them through visits and purchases enables them to endure for future generations to be able to marvel at and learn from.
So, for an immersion into fabulous 18th-century French architecture and decor, minus the crowds present at the more famous palaces, I highly recommend this jewel. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the peaceful grounds and revel in a few hours detached from everyday life. I will absolutely be returning to do the same!
Château de Champs sur Marne
31 rue de Paris
77420 Champs-sur-Marne
Read the fascinating history of the Château HERE.
See a beautiful flyover video of the Château and grounds HERE.
A truly inspiring video of the detailed restoration of the “Salon de Madame” outdoor pavilion HERE.
À bientôt!
xo
GORGEOUS AND BREATHTAKING. The flyover of the grounds are awe inspiring. Definitely rivals any of the other famous chateaus.
Thank you for bringing such beauty in your posts.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the tour. I loved the flyover, too. It’s amazing that they designed the gardens hundreds of years ago without the benefit of aerial views, yet they are absolutely perfect. My best, Georgianna
This is a special visit to a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing all with us.
My pleasure! I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Ellen.
The exterior of this chateau reminds me of The Elms in Newport, RI (which was modeled after the 18th C Chateau d’Asnieres). Plus, The Elms also has a similar pavilion. Love going there for music festivals, and you can eat lunch in the gardens. My daughter did a photo shoot there a couple of summers ago.
Hi Linda, I wasn’t familiar with The Elms but now I do see the influence of classic French architecture. What a beautiful venue to have access to! Thanks for stopping by. G
Oh my goodness! You have just introduced to many of us a dream Chateau. The beauty and design is incredible and you captured it in the gorgeous way that you do!! I will put a visit at the top of my list! Thank you Georgianna……………..and, PS. I ordered 3 of the little 5×5 photos that will look so pretty framed in my study/studio! Cate Tuten