Château de Rambouillet

Built back in 1368, this once medieval fort has transformed over the centuries, most recently serving as a homestead for French presidents from 1896 to 2009.

Adjoining the castle are gardens that have been awarded the “Outstanding Garden” label, canals and islands to explore.

There are two notable monuments you’ll find here. The first being the Queen’s Dairy, commissioned by King Louis XVI for Marie-Antoinette. It’s built in a classical Greek style and includes an artificial cave with a marble statue of the nymph Amalthea with the goat that nurtured Jupiter. You’ll find mythological themes throughout.

The second is the Shell Cottage whose rustic exterior belies its ornate and sophisticated interior. It is adorned with Doric pilasters, mother-of-pearl domes, and walls encrusted with thousands of seashells that give the cottage its name. Please note: the Shell Cottage is closed due to Covid-19. Please check the website for additional information.