Overview

A magnificent private Chateau near Paris, Chateau de Villette is located 35 minutes northwest of Paris near Versailles. Designed by architect Francois Mansart around 1668 for Jean Dyel, the Comte d’Aufflay, Louis XIV’s ambassador to Venice and finished around 1696 by his nephew Jules Hardouin-Mansart. Jules Hardouin-Mansart and Le Notre designed the Palace of Versailles at the same time as they designed Chateau de Villette in the 1680s. Therefore Villette was nicknamed “Le Petit Versailles.”

One of the most significant historical chateaux in France, Villette is at once both simple and sumptuous with the great octagonal salon in white and blue that has dessus-de-deportes by Boucher, the elegant dining room with the original 17th Century carved stone buffet, magnificent boiseries and the stone entry hall which completely exalts the classicism of the Period.

The gardens, by Le Notre, spread out behind the chateau; in the central axis, the spectacular fountain that resembles the cascade at Louis XIV’s Chateau Marly, are surmounted by a Neptune from Saint Ouen. There are two rectangular-shaped lakes on each side of the gardens. The 185-acres grounds provide privacy, serenity and numerous outdoor activities for the chateau. Jules Hardouin-Mansart and Le Notre designed Versailles at the same period of time. The magnificence and elegance in the smaller scale was evident in the Chateau de Villette.

The chateau is also a spectacular location for meetings, seminars, vacations, weddings and other special events. The story of The Da Vinci Code, the #1 Best Seller book in 2003, took place at Chateau de Villette from chapter 52. Columbia Pictures filmed the movie version here as well.

Note: The rate quoted is for the 6 bedroom main house. The 7 bedroom guest annex is available at additional cost. Max capacity 30 with additional beds.

Property Details

Main Chateau – Sleeps 13:

• Multiple living and drawing rooms
• Music salon
• Library
• 6 suites
• 6 full bathrooms with bath and shower
• Large formal dining room
• Two service kitchens
• State of the art main kitchen with pantries and breakfast room

Guest Annex – Sleeps 14:

• 6 double bedrooms (queen and king) with bathrooms
• Suite with 2 double bedrooms and one bathroom
• sitting room

Outside/Outbuildings :

• Gated entry
• Extensive lawns and elaborate gardens, fountains, lakes
• Swimming pool
• Tennis court
• Chapel
• Reception room for parties/weddings
• Greenhouse/Orangerie/Banquet room