If you enjoy outdoor strolls infused with a touch of mystery, head over to the Cave aux Fées in Brueil-en-Vexin, a charming and tranquil village in the Yvelines. This intriguing site reveals itself along a hiking trail, nestled in a peaceful, wooded area. Look up and observe the upright stones—what appears to be a simple ruin is actually one of the oldest funerary monuments in Île-de-France.
Why is it called the "Cave of the Fairies"? This name, like many others, stems from local folklore—a rich tapestry of imagination that has grown over time. The semi-buried structure, its somewhat dark and mysterious atmosphere, the imposing stones, and its isolated location have all fueled legends and fantastical stories. In the past, people would say that a white cow emerged from it at midnight, or that a headless spirit named Blaisot roamed the area on foggy evenings, confusing travelers. Local children often felt afraid of it, which likely helped preserve the site, as few dared to get too close. But while the name conjures images of fairy tales, it’s the history—really, the grand story—that one can discover there on site.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not a medieval cellar nor even a tunnel. The “Cave aux Fées” is actually a covered passage, which is a type of collective burial site dating back to the Neolithic period, likely constructed around 2200 BCE.
This site was used as a burial ground for members of the same community. During archaeological excavations at the end of the 19th century, researchers uncovered the remains of at least 150 individuals, along with funerary artifacts: flint tools, pottery, jewelry—everything that might have been offered to accompany the deceased into the afterlife.
So, why is there this confusion with the Middle Ages? Simply because, for a long time, nobody knew its true origins. Instead of imagining a 4,000-year-old tomb, local residents crafted stories based on what they saw: a mysterious stone vault, naturally ancient-looking… therefore thought to be medieval. But archaeological excavations have settled the matter: this site predates the age of knights by many centuries.
The best way to explore the Cave aux Fées is to include it as part of a hike through the Vexin Regional Nature Park. The surroundings are stunning, with rolling fields, lush forests, and charming rural villages. You can extend your visit to the village of Brueil-en-Vexin or continue on to La Roche-Guyon, another hidden gem in the area.
If you’re a fan of quirky spots, stories worth sharing, and peaceful walks in nature, this hidden gem steeped in history is definitely worth a visit. You don’t need to believe in fairies to fall a little bit in love with it.
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Location
The Fairy Cellar – Brueil-en-Vexin
la cave aux fées
78440 Brueil en Vexin
