The charming Village of Dampierre en Yvelines and its treasures to discover

Looking for the most beautiful villages in the Ile-de-France region, particularly in the Vallée de Chevreuse ? Let's head for Dampierre-en-Yvelines, the stronghold of hikers and bikers, to discover its charming assets and rich heritage.

As soon as you enter Dampierre, you'll be seduced by the majesty of the château that has given the village its reputation for centuries. Imposing and elegant, the château bears witness to the architectural grandeur of a bygone era. Nearby, the hamlet of Mousseau and the Valence plain offer an authentic rural atmosphere. But Dampierre's originality doesn't stop there. Maincourt, with its town hall-church, free-thinking quarrymen's graves and discovery trail, is a hidden gem to be explored.

A little further away, on a wooded hill, the Maison de Fer, built for the 1889 Universal Exhibition and designed by a relative of Gustave Eiffel, now welcomes hikers. The hamlet of Mousseau and the Valence plain, with their intact rural character, as well as the uniqueness of Maincourt - once one of the smallest communes in France before its merger with Dampierre in 1974 - testify to the diversity of this commune's heritage.

In its center, the 13th-centurySaint-Pierre church, although extensively modified in the 19th century, houses precious religious objects. Nearby, the 16th-century Mairie-église de Maincourt, which serves as both town hall and place of worship, illustrates the local religious and political history.

Opposite the church, the 17th-century Presbytery, built of slate and local stone, is another architectural gem. Most spectacular of all, however, is the Château and its grounds. Built in the late 17th century, it is set in a 400-hectare estate with magnificent gardens designed by Le Nôtre. While the château is still being renovated for its forthcoming opening(a visit is possible during the Heritage Days), the Domaine de Dampierre is a must-see. Its gardens are perfect for exploring, and there's also a refreshment bar to relax in.

Where to eat and drink in Dampierre A favorite stopover for hikers, walkers and bikers, Dampierre offers a wide range of places to eat and drink. Among the latest is the gastronomic restaurant"La table du Château". And to quench your thirst or nibble on a plate, or for a relaxed evening,"Les 17", a newly opened wine and craft beer bar, warmly welcomes you in part of the former Auberge Saint-Pierre.

• To be read
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• Walks and discoveries in the Vallée de Chevreuse, 17 must-see treasures
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The Sentier de Maincourt, developed by the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, offers a richly varied getaway for nature lovers. This 1 to 2-hour walk crosses one of the region's largest marshes and follows the Yvette River, rich in migratory birds. Along the way, educational panels provide information on the history, fauna, flora and ecology of the area. On the wooded hillside, visitors come face to face with impressive sandstone boulders, evidence of quarrying in the 19th century. And the good news is that even the mobility-impaired can enjoy this walk, thanks to a specially laid-out wooden path winding between vegetation and a pond.

The Lavoir de Maincourt, nestled in the heart of the village, is also worth a visit. This 19th-century vestige, once frequented by washerwomen, is a reminder of the importance of community life in days gone by. Fed by the Yvette River, the old stonework and wooden framework evoke the echoes of conversations and laughter of yesteryear. Now restored, it remains a symbol of Dampierre en Yvelines' historic heritage and a haven of serenity.

From Moulins, lavoirs and wells to historic buildings and natural wonders such as the Maison de Fer and the Marais de Maincourt, Dampierre en Yvelines promises an enriching experience. A true invitation to discovery in an unspoilt setting. So, are you ready for adventure in this jewel of the Vallée de Chevreuse?

To discover :

The Maincourt Trail, a Natural Oasis in the Chevreuse Valley to discover
The Vallée de Chevreuse is home to a natural gem, the Sentier de Maincourt, a stone's throw from the Château de Dampierre. Accessible all year long by families, even with strollers and people with reduced mobility, this jewel offers a beautiful nature walk between fauna and flora, only 40 minutes from Paris. [Read more]

Domaine du Château de Dampierre en Yvelines open and free to under-18s
Domaine du Château de Dampierre-en-Yvelines is now open all year round. There will be no more winter closures. A host of new features await you, including some great events, the opening of guided tours of the château and free admission for under-18s. [Read more]

Château de Dampierre launches its guided tours
Can't wait to get inside Château de Dampierre? We'd like to take you on an exclusive tour of this hidden heritage site, currently under renovation. Guided tours are now open to you from this March 23, 2024. [Read more]