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South of the Abbey on the D91 is the tiny village of Dampierre-en-Yvelines, dominated by the Mansart-designed Château de Dampierre (☎ 01 30 52 53 24), built in the 17th century for the Duc de Luynes and still inhabited by his descendents. The interior has a few well-preserved architectural features and sculptures, with intricately carved woodwork and a mural by the painter Ingres representing the Golden Age. The château sits smack in the middle of parklands and formal gardens designed by the prolific Le Nôtre, with a lake, Grand Canal, and tiny islands set throughout the waterways. Open daily from April 1 to October 15, 2 to 6:30pm (park open 11am to 6:30pm). Entry to the park and château costs €9.50, €7.50 for students. Entrance to the park and gardens only is €6, €4.50 for students (picnics allowed). There is also a gourmet restaurant, Les Ecuries du Château (closed in August, see page 408 for details), in the château’s former stables.
TIP:Climb up the hill across the street from the château gates for a free bird’s eye view of the estate and its gardens. |
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