At the heart of the French Vexin Regional Nature Park, in the municipality of Chaussy, the Domaine de Villarceaux estate is a listed Historic Monument with a magnificent park and two châteaux. This huge property, whose story began in the 11th or 12th century, to be resting on the water as it has so many pools, fountains, waterfalls and lakes. Open to the public from April to October, the park and its charming, peaceful gardens is a treat for visitors and admirers of leafy landscapes.
When you arrive, head towards the Ninon Pavilion, or "lower château". This beautiful Renaissance manor house, built in the 16th century, is where the famous courtesan Ninon de Lenclos conducted a love affair with the Marquis de Villarceaux, a close associate of Louis XIV. This was the first fortified construction on the estate, and only a few parts of it remain today. You will have access to the St. Nicholas Tower, with its medieval terrace featuring a garden of aromatic and medicinal plants, as well as the Ninon Pavilion, opposite a superb box hedge parterre de broderie by the water.
Then climb the hill to the "upper château". Built in the 18th century, during the Enlightenment, it stands proudly on top of the hill. From there you can admire a lovely view of its main pond, called the Grand Étang, and the French Vexin. Discover its various drawing rooms, dining rooms and impressive collection of 18th-century paintings and furniture.
Round off your visit with a stroll in its 70-hectare park, a listed Remarkable Garden. The Grand Étang offers an idyllic setting for a moment of relaxation. The estate, where protected wildlife and plants thrive, was certified as an "Ecological Plant Space" ("Espace végétal écologique") by ECOCERT in 2012, and is part of the Epte Valley Natura 2000 site.
In the summer, the Domaine de Villarceaux hosts a wide range of events, such as concerts, plays and educational workshops.
