Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte Guide
A Vision of Grandeur: Experience the Splendor of Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte Guide
Prepare to be captivated by the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a masterpiece of 17th-century French architecture and landscape design. Located just outside of Paris, this magnificent château is a testament to the ambition and vision of Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV's superintendent of finances. Its harmonious blend of architecture, gardens, and interior design set a new standard for French elegance and served as a direct inspiration for the Palace of Versailles. Nicolas Fouquet commissioned the most talented artists of the time – architect Louis Le Vau, painter Charles Le Brun, and landscape architect André Le Nôtre – to create his dream estate. Completed in 1661, the château was the site of a lavish fête that so impressed and enraged Louis XIV that he had Fouquet arrested shortly thereafter. The king then employed the same team of artists to build Versailles, effectively eclipsing Vaux-le-Vicomte in royal grandeur, but not in architectural significance. Today, visitors can explore the opulent interiors of the château, wander through the meticulously manicured gardens, and admire the stunning fountains and sculptures. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the grounds, rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal, or enjoy a picnic in the gardens. During the summer months, the château hosts candlelit evenings, creating a magical atmosphere. Don't miss the Musée des Équipages, which showcases a collection of historical carriages. The on-site restaurant offers a taste of French cuisine.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte from Paris is by train. Take the SNCF train from Gare de l'Est to Verneuil l'Etang station (approximately 35 minutes). From Verneuil l'Etang, a shuttle bus (Châteaubus) operates to the château on certain days and times. Check the château's website for the Châteaubus schedule. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the station to the château (approximately 15 minutes).