Planning a trip to Paris and looking for a way to escape away from the capital city for a day ? Explore the beautiful village of Chevreuse, France located just 45 minutes southwest from central Paris.
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Explore the beautiful village of Chevreuse
The small village of Chevreuse is located in the Yvelines department, in the Chevreuse Valley. It is on the banks of the Yvette river, 28 km southwest of Paris. Chevreuse and its valley are great places for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. If you are looking for a day of hiking and cycling in a country setting, this village is one not to miss. In addition, enjoy a scenic stroll along the little bridges, greenery landscapes and beautiful medieval houses.
What to do in Chevreuse
There are lots of activities to do in this former medieval village. Chevreuse is for people who love nature, long walks, biodiversity, hiking and cycling. It is a also for travelvers who love art, history and old stones. Start your day by doing the activities below.
Château de la Madeleine old ruins
The Château de la Madeleine is a medieval fortress who was built from the 11th century onwards and was the focus of fierce battles, particularly during the 100 Years’ War. This château, which is free offers superb views over the Chevreuse Valley.There Visitors can explore the inner courtyard, ramparts, cellars. You can get there on foot from the village center, but it’s a bit of a climb. Walking poles are recommended but you can still climb up there without them. The address is Château de la Madeleine, Chemin Jean Racine,78472 Chevreuse Cedex.
The Grataloup Museum
The Grataloup Museum is a center of contemporary arts in the chapel of the Prieuré Saint-Saturnin. It is the only remaining evidence of the abbey built in Chevreuse in the 10th century. Located in the historic heart of the village, the GRATALOUP museum aims to showcase the work of French visual artist, painter and plastician, Grataloup.
Visitors can admire the artist’s work in various forms (paintings, objects, drawings and urban art). The museum also showcases other artists’ contemporary art through annual exhibitions. It is located at 3 rue de l’Eglise, 78460 Chevreuse. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 2-6 pm and time and days may vary depending of the season. Groups are highly encouraged to book a reservation. For more information, feel free to visit the Grataloup Museum website here.
Small bridges promenade
The village has so many small bridges ready to be discovered and that are a reflection of its vibrant past. Along your promenade discover the (washhouse, tannery, etc.) along the Yvette river. All these bridges are truly astonishing, and what’s more, relaxing!
Cycling
Start at the Saint-Remy-Lès Chevreuse train station. From there, take the cycling lane that takes you from Saint-Remy directly to the village of Chevreuse. The cycling lane is located right accross the street from the bus terminal station once you exit the train station. Along the way take the time to enjoy the beautiful country scenary.
Walk
I departed from the village of Saint-Remy to get to Chevreuse. Walking takes about 30-40 minutes along the cycling lane depending of your speed. Because it is quite a distance by foot, I highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes/clothes and carry something to drink and to protect you from the sun.
Ferme de Coubertin
The Coubertin Farm is open for visitors to buy a wide variety of cheeses, cow and goat dairy products directly from the local farmers. The farm is accessible along the cycling/walking lane. Stop by if you want to support their work. To limit the use of packaging, it is highly recommended that people bring their own cheese bottle or jar. Business hours vary so contact them before heading there. Visit their website (in French) to see their business operating hours here. Scroll down until you see, ” nos horaires” meaning in English, “business hours”.
Parc naturel régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse
The park offers stunning natural beauty. Next, there are diverse trails for all skill levels. Additionally, hikers can enjoy rich biodiversity. Also, the peaceful environment provides a perfect escape away from Paris. Therefore, it’s an ideal destination for nature and biodiversity lovers not familiar with the outskirts of the French capital.
Where to eat in Chevreuse
In the center of the village ( Mairie stop), there are small shops where you can grab a bite. Keep in mind that it is a small village so there aren’t as many choices coompared to Paris.
How to get to Chevreuse +itinerary from Châtelet
From the Châtelet metro/train station in central Paris, with your Navigo pass, take the RER B train to the last stop, Saint-Rémy-Lès Chevreuse. At the last stop, although the train station serves both the villages of Saint-Remy and Lès Chevreuse, once you exit the train station, you are at Saint-Remy. To reach Chevreuse or Lès Chevreuse, non drivers have several options:
- Take the bus 3917 going to La Verrière and get off at Mairie or tell the driver to drop you off there.
- Start your walk/cycling exploration at Saint-Remy by taking the cycling/walking lane and walk for about 30-45 minutes until you reach Chevreuse.
- During your walk/ride take the time to admire the scenery
Once you reach Mairie which is about 5 stops on the bus from the train station, start exploring the village.
How to get to Chevreuse +itinerary from Gare Montparnasse
Take Suburban lines N or U at gare Montparnasse in the 14th arrondissement and exit at La Verrière train station. From there, take the bus 3917 to get to Mairie. Exit there and start exploring the beautiful village of Chevreuse.
Final thoughts
Chevreuse is a charming village worth exploring for a day not only for its medieval architecture but also beautiful scenery. Additionally, it is very accessible from Paris by taking public transportation with just a zone 5 Navigo pass. Its Château de la Madeleine offers stunning views on the Chvreuse Valley. Moreover, the nearby Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Park is perfect for hiking. Finally, Chevreuse is a hidden gem worth discovering for those who want to discover a different side of the Parisian outskirts.
Wondering what other day trips you can do and accessible from Paris? You might like these posts:
- Vincennes: Beautiful Sights and Hidden Treasures
- Discover The Enchanting Charm of the Town of Ecouen
- Discover the Beautiful Charm of Saint-Germain-en-Laye
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