Domaine du Château de Dampierre en Yvelines open and free to under-18s

The Domaine de Dampierre-en-Yvelines, located in the heart of the Vallée de Chevreuse, is a place steeped in history and natural beauty. Since 2019, the estate has been opening its doors every year to allow the public to discover the château, its gardens and its forest park. This initiative is much appreciated, as it offers a unique opportunity to experience heritage in a different way. This year marks a turning point, as the château will now remain open all year round. We can't wait to discover what Christmas has in store for us here.

In 2024, Domaine de Dampierre reaches a significant milestone with the completion of the restoration of the château's exterior spaces, including the reinstatement of the majestic main entrance gate. At the same time, visitor facilities such as the parking lot and visitor center will be completed, to provide an even better visitor experience.

This year is also marked by a nice surprise for young people and families in particular. Admission is now free for under-18s accompanied by an adult, demonstrating the company's determination to be open to all audiences.

Exceptionally, the château is also opening its doors for guided tours even before its restoration is complete. This is an unprecedented chance to explore the sumptuous interiors and their decor, including Ingres' remarkable unfinished fresco, during exclusive guided tours offered by our tour guides, subject to booking.

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]

The new features don't stop there: the estate's farm has been enriched by the presence ofdomestic animals for the enjoyment of visitors, while a new dedicated trail will enable wildlife to be observed from the gardens. The already popular horse-drawn carriage rides will continue to reveal the historical mysteries and natural beauty of Dampierre's park and gardens, for a complete immersion in the heritage of this exceptional place.

Designed by two great French artists, Jules Hardouin Mansart and André Le Notre, the Château de Dampierre estate is an exceptional example of 17th century architecture and garden design. Since the purchase of the property by Mr. Franky Mulliez, the estate has undergone a period of renewal and restoration. Work to refurbish the courtyards and reception facilities is nearing completion in early spring, and the view of the château, its facade and courtyard can now be rediscovered without the palisades and scaffolding.

The Château de Dampierre estate offers a wide range of walks through formal gardens, groves and ponds, making it ideal for family outings. For the new season, there are plenty of events to look forward to. In addition to the traditional Chasse aux oeufs, or rather Chasse aux cloches, the château will host the Trail des Lavoirs, the Paris Rambouillet and its beautiful old cars, the Olympiades as part of the Cultural Olympiad for the Olympic Games, and even an Opera in the new paved courtyard.

The estate also offers activities to suit all tastes, including carriage rides in the forest park with the American mules, boat trips on the pond, and rides in the 90-hectare gardens in rosarias and electric buggies.

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For the adventurous with sea legs, why not opt for a boat trip, which you can also order at the entrance. It's a chance to get some fresh air and take a tour of the immense lake.

The season is punctuated by a program of exciting events, culminating this year with Christmas decorations.

A food and beverage kiosk awaits you inside the park, facing the lake.

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]

The charming Village of Dampierre en Yvelines and its treasures to discover
Dampierre en Yvelines, nestled in the heart of two valleys, reveals its charms with its majestic castle, picturesque hamlets and rich heritage. This village is a must-see for history and nature lovers. We reveal its treasures for you to discover. [Read more]