Just about 40 km (24 miles) to the north of Paris lies the amazing town of Chantilly, in the Picardy region of France. This town that was famed for its beautiful porcelain and fine lacework in the 18th century, today, has become even more popular for its park, château, racecourse, and associated stables. Fun fact, scenes from the popular James Bond film “A View to Kill” were filmed in the magnificent Château de Chantilly.
In this article, we will take you on a discovery ride of this majestic chateau and provide a few of our best recommendations for enjoying a visit to Chantilly.
Château de Chantilly
The Domain of Chantilly was shaped from between the Middle Ages to the 19th century by its different owners. It is one of the few Chateaux never to be lived in by kings or queens, but it has belonged to Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, and the son of the last King of France, Louis-Phillipe. While it may not be as majestic as the golden Versailles castle, Chateau de Chantilly leaves an impression less with its opulence and more with its quiet sprawling fields and fairytale-like turrets.
The gardens are open from 10.30 am to 5.30 pm, 6 days a week, and closed on Tuesday. We all look forward to the re-opening of the château and the great stables as the pandemic eases off.
The Château de Chantilly has two open seasons. During the low season from late October to late March, it’s open every day but Tuesday, 10:30 am to 5 pm. During the high season, from late March to early October, it’s open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The château is closed on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and for several weeks in mid-January.
The Recently Restoration
In 1830, the state was inherited by the Duke of Aumale, one of the eight children of the king, Louis Philippe d’Orléans, after its rightful heir was shot by a firing squad on Napoleon’s orders.
The private apartments of Duc and Duchesse d’Aumale in the Renaissance Petit Château built from 1557-1558 by the architect Jean Bullant are among the rooms of Château de Chantilly with the most historical connections. These have been restored and are open to visitors again.
Things to do in Chantilly
The proximity of this city to Paris makes it an ideal location for many day trips for visitors from Paris. Here are a few of our top recommendations.
1. Art Visit to Musée Condé
The Musée Condé is one of the museums within Domaine de Chantilly and is regarded as among France’s most prestigious art galleries. It was designed in the 19th century by Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, and was primarily used in displaying his extensive art collection. The layout and paintings of this museum have remained more or less the same since its creation. Next to the louvre, the Musée Condé holds the second-largest number of antique paintings in France. This visit would be especially interesting for adults and teenagers.
2. Touring the Great Stables
Upon visiting Chantilly, it is easy for visitors to observe its long history and love for horses. The town has been very active in Horse Racing since 1834 and is one of Frances’ principal horse training centers. Visitors would be thrilled as they discover the role these animals play in Chantilly’s history at the Musée du Cheval (Museum of the Horse), found in the great stables or in French, Les Grandes Écuries, at the Chantilly Castle. Visitors would have a full historical immersion that includes sculptures, paintings, and of course, ethnographic objects.
3. Visit Notre-Dame of Chantilly
Just beside the stables at Domaine de Chantilly, the Church of Notre Dame of Chantilly is a work by the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart. The construction of this classical building took 4 years – 1687 to 1691, making it Chantilly’s first church. This building was enlarged a few years later because it was considered too small and did not fit the town’s growing population. Later in 1965, it was labeled a Historical Monument of France because of the quality and uniqueness of its architecture.
4. A visit to Le Potager des Princes
Le Potager des Princes translated as the Prince’s Vegetable Garden is an animal park and garden located in the heart of the city, just on the banks of the Canal Saint-Jean. Altogether, it is made up of a bamboo maze, a Japanese garden, a broad array of exotic plants, and beautiful animals including peacocks, hens, and parakeets. Visitors would also love an experience in the small garden theater, Théâtre de la Faisanderie, where concerts and plays are held all summer, a great experience for kids and teenagers.
5. A Discovery of the Chantilly Forest
Accompanied by a guide lecturer, this is one of the best ways to spend time in Chantilly. A forest discovery could often end with a glass of Champagne, replicating the life of the princes when they went hunting.
Other than strolls through the forests, visitors could also enjoy riding along the tracks and experiencing this magnificent forest on a horse. The forest is open to a wide range of visitors including hikers, hunters, and farmers. Along the trails, visitors will be guided by the large forest paths and directional signs. Some tracks are specifically kept for horse training every day until 1 PM.
6. Visit to the Troglodyte Houses in Gouvieux
Gouvieux is a neighborhood that lies about 6 minutes outside of Chantilly. It has a unique heritage and is known for its charming homesteads. Visitors would be intrigued by the row of cave-like houses on the Impasse des Carrières. They give the impression of a time warp, taking visitors to an ancient era.
Up until the 19th century, these ancient homes served as housing for low-income families. Today, many of them remain inhabited and architectural masterpieces. During the summer, they become naturally cooler, and warmer during the winter.
Where to stay in chantilly?
Many visitors enjoy day trips in Chantilly from Paris, but indeed, this little town has some perfect accommodation gems. Our top recommendation is Auberge du Jeu de Paume*****
Auberge du Jeu de Paume*****
This polished 5-star hotel lies on the prestigious Domaine de Chantilly country estate, just a 10-minute walk from the Château de Chantilly and 2 km from Golf De Chantilly. It is a wonderful laid-back facility with suites and rooms set in 18th-century style, adorned with antiques and original artwork.
One of the biggest draws to this hotel are its two upscale restaurants; Michelin-starred La Table du Connétable and Le Jardin d’Hiver. La Table du Connétable opens out onto the beautiful lawns and gardens of the Château de Chantilly and offers exquisite views that make dining a true dream experience.