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The hunting lodge and favorite residence of seven centuries of French royalty, from Louis VII to Catherine de Medici to Napoleon, the Chateau de Fontainebleau has 1500 rooms and is set on over 130 acres of gardens and parkland. The sprawling palace showcases French architecture from the 12th through the 19th centuries. Because of the renovations done during the 16th century, including Florentine style frescos, it is said that the Renaissance was introduced to France at Fontainebleau. In 1814 Napoleon signed The Treaty of Fontainebleau, ending his reign of France and from the chateau he left for exile in Elba. Arguably, Fontainebleau is one of the most historically significant chateau in France.
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After visiting the chateau and exploring its gardens, consider renting a bike in town and riding through the stunning Fontainebleau Forest. Or, you may just prefer a relaxing stroll along the peaceful forest path. The forest was originally the royal hunting grounds and encompasses over one hundred square miles.
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You may want to ride the 6 miles through the forest to the quaint little village of Barbizon…the former artist colony known for the “Barbizon School” of artists, such as Camille Corot, Charles-François Daubigny, Theodore Rousseau and, my personal favorite, Jean Francois Millet, who had such later influence on the Impressionists.
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L’Angélus, Jean-François Millet, Musee d’Orsay
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But, you will have to visit the Musee d’Orsay to see my favorite painting by Jean Francois Millet.
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There are some charming little cafes, brasseries and salons de thé in town where you can stop for break before riding back to Fontainebleau.
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Things to Remember:
The Chateau de Fontainebleau is closed on Tuesdays.
For more information about hours and tickets at the chateau, go here.
For more information about how to get to Fontainebleau, go here.
For more information about bike rentals, go here.
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Bonjour Sandy!
Another exhilarating tour of my favorite countryside! I have a gorgeous etching of Fontainebleu in my dining room that we bought at the Louvre; what an enchanting place back then when it was captured in this piece, and what a special place NOW. Thank you for participating in this party that has been such a fun pleasure for me. I knew you would be great at this, with your travel skills! BISOUS BISOUS! Anita
Wow, such fantastic pix – i want to visit all these places. Have been to Versailles – but long ago – the countryside is so beautiful! Thanks for posting – and visiting me.
Sandy, I feel as if you have opened my travel diary from France this week. Fountainbleu is another spectacular place to visit. The gardens and the house a beautiful.