The Queen's Hamlet, Paris, France

The Queen's Hamlet is a rustic retreat built for Queen Marie Antoinette. The construction of the Hamlet can be divided into two phases: in 1777 the creation of the English Gardens and from 1783 to 1786 the extending of the gardens and the building of a whole rural village around an artificial lake. The Queen would often come here to escape the pageantry of Versailles and enjoy the pleasures of a simpler life. Twelve thatched-roof houses were built on the site, of which ten can still be seen, including the billiard room, the boudoir, the mill and the diary.
Built without much thought, the cottages aged badly. Between 1810 and 1812 Napoleon ordered a full restoration; a second campaign of restoration saved the Hamlet from certain ruin in the 1930s. It was restored for the 3rd time in the late 20th century, with some buildings returning to their original configuration.

Opening hours: the estate of Trianon opens from 12 p.m. to 6.30 p.m., except on Mondays.
Entrance fee: €20 (whole estate, including the Palace of Versailles); €12 (excluding the Palace of Versailles).
How to go: Take the RER C in Paris and get off at Gare de Versailles station.








Local: Versalhes, França

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