Wednesday (Versailles)…

After quiche and chocolate croissants for breakfast; fueled by hot coffee, we headed out for a long day of walking and exploring every nook and cranny of Versailles. 

It was a peaceful morning in the gardens. The fully-laden busses from Paris were most certainly in-bound, but for now the grounds were for us and the occasional startled dove. 

After a leisurely walk thru numerous allée and another stop at the Anish Kapoor cube in the Étoile Bosquet, we arrived at the gate of Le Grand Trianon…getaway for Louis XIV and subsequent monarchs and presidents. Each room with tall ceilings and equally tall windows led from one to the next with views out to the carefully framed views of trees, flower and endless sky. The rooms though very grand exuded a homey feel…albeit one of luxury. Sitting room led to bedroom, led to games room, led to billiard room. This was a house to relax and enjoy versus the rigid formality of the main palace a short distance away. What a difference…even in the crowds who have the time and wherewithal to venture this far. Rooms of malachite and interesting place of colors caught our eye. A highlight was the long gallery featuring paintings from the 17th century of the many bosquets designed and built for the pleasure of Louus XIV and his court. With the light streaming thru the windows creating long light and shadows across the marquetry floors, we were inspired to linger and partake in some photography in each of our styles. The end attraction was the wing in the bois (wood) which is normally closed due to its use as a residence of the President of France, but with restoration work ongoing, the museum has staged an exhibit highlighting the historical use of the Trianon from Louis XIV to present. 

Exiting from the exhibit, we immediately headed towards our next destination…Le Petit Trianon.
Le Petit Trianon was originally built for Louis XV and his mistress du jour, but after his death, it was gifted by Louis XVI to his wife, Marie Antoinette. After coming of age after marriage at a young age, Marie Antoinette yearned for some privacy and a place to call her own. Her mark is everywhere… monograms at ever turn, a gem of a theatre in the garden, beautiful garden buildings (Temple of Love), and her very on fleek addition…Le Hameau. 

This village of rustic buildings replicated a model farm on the outside recalling simpler times, but exuded luxury on the inside not to jar her discerning guests. All makes for an idyllic walk from one view to the next. With fluffy clouds, we snapped away on our cameras trying to capture the scene for future memories and to share with those not yet able to experience. The history of the place draws the crowds, but the setting in the modern world should provide the wonder. It is simply beautiful regardless of its provence. 

After partaking in a delightful afternoon snack of quiche Lorraine and a vanilla custard pastry, we headed back out towards the Grand Canal in the park. Following it’s contours towards the main palace and its glowing facade in the setting sun. From this far distance, the entire palace seems to float above the green park like a golden necklace. Only Anish Kapoors temporary exhibit of art breaks up the rhythm of palace and park. Stopping at the Fountain of Apollo at the base of the canal, we turned out attention towards the main attraction…the wondrous setting sun. 

Dinner of sea bass and a succulent filet. Wine at a tiny bar called No Water. 31,719 steps today!! Approximately 13 miles. No wonder our legs are so tired!!