The Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse, located on the heights of Hautvilliers, offers a breathtaking view over the Yvette valley. This medieval fortress, built between the 11th and 14th centuries, has become an emblematic symbol of Chevreuse and a must-see site in the Ile-de-France region.
There is free access to the inner courtyard, the ramparts with their panoramic views over the Chevreuse valley, the guard tower and the cellars, which explain the history of the château. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, Château de la Madeleine is a great way to discover French medieval history.
In 2023, the Conseil départemental des Yvelines is organizing several weekends of historical re-enactment at Château de la Madeleine. These events, known as"Les rendez-vous de la Madeleine", reveal different facets of medieval life, including:
The youngest visitors can be introduced to the activities on offer, making the visit a memorable experience for the whole family.
The château is a prime example of feudal architecture in the Île-de-France region. Owned by the département since 1981, it offers a unique view of history and the environment. It is also home to the Maison du Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, an ideal place to discover the local flora and fauna.
There are several hiking trails leading up to the château, making it a must for hikers and nature lovers alike. These include the chemin Jean Racine, the GR 11, and the GR 655, among others.
There are several options for getting to the château: take the RER B to the Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse stop, cycle along the Véloscenie Paris/Le Mont Saint-Michel itinerary, or take the Baladobus from the La Verrière station.
The château is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. from April to September, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. from October to March. It is closed on July 14, December 25 and January 1. The interior of the château is not open to the public, but the inner courtyard, the châtelet floors and the keep already offer plenty to discover.
In conclusion, a visit to Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse is an escapade rich in history and nature. You'll discover an exceptional panorama of the Yvette valley, a plunge back in time to medieval times, and an invitation to stroll and discover the flora and fauna of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse.
For the more curious, exhibitions and historical re-enactments will give you an insight into daily life, craftsmanship, healthcare and medicine, as well as the art of warfare at the time. An adventure for young and old alike, where history comes to life before your very eyes.
And if you're a hiking enthusiast, don't forget that Château de la Madeleine is a key stop on several walking and hiking routes. For example, the Chemin Jean Racine, the GR 11 and the GR 655 are all routes that will take you through the enchanting landscapes of the Vallée de Chevreuse to the medieval fortress.
And for families, don't forget the discovery booklet created by the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse. It's a fun way for youngsters to discover the castle.
Finally, we can't talk about Château de la Madeleine without mentioning the village of Chevreuse itself. This little corner of paradise in the Ile-de-France region is brimming with charm and heritage. A bucolic stroll through fields and heritage awaits you.
In short, a visit to Château de la Madeleine is an opportunity to immerse yourself in history, reconnect with nature and share a unique moment with family and friends. So why not come and discover this jewel of the Ile-de-France region? Château de la Madeleine in Chevreuse opens its doors to you and promises an unforgettable experience.
Discovery of Chevreuse: the Little Venice of the Yvelines and its Little Bridges Stroll
Chevreuse, known as the little Venice of the Yvelines, hides a sublime stroll of the small bridges, a real green setting at only 40 minutes from Paris and accessible by RER. We embark you for an adventure with unsuspected charm. [Read more]
Want to break the routine? Take a leap into the funny and poetic world of Raymond Devos, by visiting his house in Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, near Paris. [Read more]
In the heart of the Yvelines, discover the green setting that hosted the love story of the two writers Louis Aragon and Elsa Triolet, in an old water mill. Enjoy a fascinating guided tour and the quietness of the six-hectare park, conducive to daydreaming and creation. [Read more]
Domaine du Château de Dampierre-en-Yvelines is now open all year round. There will be no more winter closures. A host of new features await you, including some great events, the opening of guided tours of the château and free admission for under-18s. [Read more]
Location
Château de la Madeleine
Maison du parc
78460 Chevreuse
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.sortir-yvelines.fr
Discovery of Chevreuse: the Little Venice of the Yvelines and its Little Bridges Stroll
In Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, a funny escape in the house-museum of Raymond Devos
The Elsa Triolet-Aragon House, museum and residence of the writer couple in the heart of the Yvelines
Domaine du Château de Dampierre en Yvelines open and free to under-18s
