Great stories

Great stories shape our region, with famous historical figures who have left their mark on the stones of our towns and drawn inspiration for their creative genius from our landscapes. Discover the places where they grew up, the castles they built and the museums that immortalise them. Here, stories are whispered in the streets, towns and villages you’ll come across.

#1 MEET RENOIR at the Fournaise museum

And if you had to meet one of your favourite historical figures, who would you choose? A writer like Dumas, a musician like Debussy or a painter like Renoir? Here at the Musée Fournaise, in Chatou, we invite you to meet Pierre-Auguste Renoir, the world-famous painter whose one of his finest works, “Le déjeuner des canotiers”, was painted right here! It is he, or at least his hologram, who will take you on a tour of the museum: welcome to Maison Fournaise!

The Musée Fournaise is waiting for me!

#2 Welcome to Dumas At Monte Cristo Castle

The Three Musketeers, D’Artagnan, Milady, Queen Margot, the Count of Monte Cristo – if cinema has brought Alexandre Dumas’ masterpieces to light, it’s here that you’ll appreciate their grandeur. The stones of the château, the finesse of the materials, the energy of the place – everything here reflects the exuberance of this multi-faceted artist, who was a visionary writer, an insatiable traveller, an eccentric gourmand and a great lover of women. You’ll be won over by this extraordinary estate and rediscover a man of innumerable talents.

One for all and all for one!

#3 JOURNEY TO THE TIME OF THE GAULS The National Archaeology Museum

“By Toutatis! If you think archaeology is a dusty discipline, the Musée d’Archéologie Nationale de Saint-Germain-en-Laye will change your mind. Housed in the sumptuous Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, this museum invites you to delve into the fascinating history of France, from the earliest mankind to the High Middle Ages, via the mythical era of the Gauls.

Journey to the time of the Gauls

©Museum of the Royal Estate of Marly, exterior façade

#4 A ROYAL ESCAPE AT THE MUSEUM OF THE ROYAL ESTATE OF MARLY

“Sire, Marly? Like the courtiers of King Louis XIV, say these two little words and become one of the Sun King’s privileged guests. You too can discover this emblematic place, described as a “water palace”, hunting lodge and above all the intimate residence of Louis XIV. With its captivating history, precious works of art and splendid models, this visit to the Museum of the Royal Estate of Marly will take you back in time.

Escape to the Royal Museum of Marly

#5 A musical journey Claude Debussy's birthplace

Did you know that the famous composer of “Clair de Lune” was born in Saint-Germain-en-Laye? Located in the historic heart of the town, Claude Debussy’s birthplace has just been restored and reopened to the delight of music lovers and fans of this great musician. This intimate setting invites you to discover the composer’s early years, and the creative world of an artist who revolutionised classical music.

Time for a musical journey

©Bust statue of Claude Debussy at his birthplace in Saint-Germain-en-Laye

#6 THE POET OF COLOURS Maurice Denis Museum

Located in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, the Musée Départemental Maurice Denis offers a unique cultural getaway in an exceptional setting. Housed in a former priory, this place steeped in history and art invites visitors to discover the fascinating world of Maurice Denis and his contemporaries.

Meeting Maurice Denis

After your visit...

Treat yourself to a well-deserved break in one of our restaurants, relax in one of our charming addresses, take the time to recharge your batteries and enjoy life.

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All our beautiful escapes

What if you were to look on the bright side of life?

With the Saint Germain Boucles de Seine Tourist Office, every outing becomes an enchanted interlude: unusual walks, charming visits and local discoveries to savour without moderation. Whether you come with friends, family or on your own, there’s always a great surprise waiting for you. Book your next getaway now!