Our essentials
1. Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye & its national estate
The Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye is a historical and architectural gem. Built in the Middle Ages and remodeled by François I, it now houses the Musée d’Archéologie Nationale. Explore its magnificent formal and formal gardens designed by André Le Nôtre, including the Grand Terrace with its breathtaking views over the Seine Valley and Paris.
2. Musée Fournaise in Chatou
Located on the Île des Impressionnistes, the Musée Fournaise is dedicated to the history of Impressionism. This iconic location was frequented by famous artists such as Renoir, who painted his famous picture “Le Déjeuner des canotiers” at the present-day Restaurant Maison Fournaise. The museum offers immersive exhibitions and digital animations for a unique experience.
3. Forêt de Saint-Germain-en-Laye
For nature lovers, the Forêt de Saint-Germain-en-Laye offers a vast network of hiking and cycling trails. The Grande Terrasse, an almost 2-km-long promenade designed by Le Nôtre, offers panoramic views over Paris and the Seine valley.
4. The Impressionist Trail
Follow in the footsteps of Impressionist painters such as Monet, Pissarro and Sisley along the Chemins des Impressionnistes along the Seine and through charming villages such as Le Port-Marly, Le Pecq and Croissy-sur-Seine. These paths are punctuated by explanatory panels and reproductions of the artists’ works.
5. Château de Monte-Cristo
Discover the Château de Monte-Cristo, the home of the famous writer Alexandre Dumas, creator of the masterpiece The Count of Monte-Cristo. Surrounded by English-style gardens, this neo-Renaissance château is a journey back in time, where you can explore the life and works of Dumas.
6. Old Village of Marly-le-Roi
The Vieux Village de Marly-le-Roi is a charming historic village with cobbled streets and colorful old houses. Don’t miss a visit to the Domaine National and the Domaine Royal de Marly museum, which traces the history of the château and gardens built by Louis XIV.
7. Le Vésinet, France’s only park town
Built in the mid-19th century to plans drawn up by the Comte de Choulot, Le Vésinet is a veritable haven of peace, with its lush greenery, lakes and rivers. Le Vésinet was also the birthplace of many famous people. Take a stroll around the parks and waterways, and look up at the majestic facades of some incredible homes.
Further information
We’ve thought of you, lovers of hiking and biking, with its many itineraries between towns, forests and villages, our region is a veritable playground. Here’s a list of hikes and walks you can do to discover all the treasures of our region.
Are you more interested in heritage and history? You’ll find what you’re looking for on this page. By the end of it, the history of Saint Germain Boucles de Seine and its castles and museums will no longer hold any secrets for you.
And if you’re more of a Seine-side stroller? We’ve found the right page for you.
Chateau Sgl Nicolasmauge
Chateau Monte Cristo Chateaumontecristo2017
Musée Fournaise à Chatou 
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Les maisons colorées du village de Marly-le-Roi
Pique-nique Le Vésinet famille
