Welcome to the magical world of Versailles! Get ready for an adventure that will transport you back in time to the era of kings and queens. With a special passport in hand, you have the freedom to explore the entire Versailles Estate at your own pace.
The heart of this grand estate is the Palace of Versailles, a colossal masterpiece that served as the residence for the Kings of France and their courts for over a century. Your journey begins with the aid of an audio guide, a magical device that tells captivating stories and provides interesting stories about the palace's history. As you wander through the halls, marvelling at the Baroque architecture, exquisite artworks, and luxurious decorations that once housed the likes of Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI.
As you visit the Palace of Versailles, covering a mind-boggling 721,000 square feet with over 700 rooms, your trusty audio guide becomes your compass. It leads you through the King's Grand Apartment, a collection of seven salons dedicated to different gods, each more splendid than the last. The Queen's Grand Apartment, a mirror image of the king's, reveals treasures like the Coronation Room and the Queen's Bedroom, where Marie Antoinette once resided.
Prepare to be awestruck by the legendary Hall of Mirrors, a colossal room designed to dazzle visitors with its 17 windows and 350 mirrors. Imagine the grandeur of the Sun King's receptions, where guests were both received and left in awe. From this magnificent hall, you can also catch breathtaking views of the palace's splendid gardens, a sight that will surely linger in your memory.
But the adventure does not stop within the palace walls. With your passport in hand, explore the enchanting gardens of Versailles, an oasis of beauty and tranquillity. Discover more than 200 statues, witness fountains that dance to music during the "Grandes Eaux" in the summer, and stroll through flower beds and woodlands that whisper tales of a bygone era.
As you wander through this historical wonderland, you will come across the Trianon, a collection of architectural gems including the King's Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon. These structures offer a glimpse into the private lives of the royals, providing a stark contrast to the grandeur of the palace.
Take your time to absorb the rich history that seeps through every stone of Versailles. Your passport is not just a ticket; it is a key to unlock the secrets of a UNESCO World Heritage site that has stood for over three centuries. Let the stories of kings and queens, the whispers of the gardens, and the grandeur of the palace transport you to a time when Versailles was the epicentre of royal extravagance.
In the end of your day at Versailles, you will carry with you not just memories but a deep appreciation for the art, history, and sheer opulence that defined the lives of those who once graced these hallowed halls.
