Pièce d'Eau des Suisses, Versailles Travel Guide

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Discover the tranquil Pièce d'Eau des Suisses in Versailles, a historic lake offering scenic walks and a peaceful escape within the palace grounds.

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Pièce d'Eau des Suisses

The Pièce d'Eau des Suisses is a large artificial lake located in the park of the Palace of Versailles. Dug between 1679 and 1682 by a regiment of Swiss Guards, it was initially created to drain the King's vegetable garden. Today, it offers a peaceful retreat with walking paths and scenic views.

A brief summary to Pièce d'Eau des Suisses

Versailles, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pièce d'Eau des Suisses.

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, as it's a popular spot for relaxation and scenic views.
Take a leisurely walk along the perimeter of the lake to fully appreciate its size and beauty.
Visit during the cooler hours of the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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Explore Pièce d'Eau des Suisses on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pièce d'Eau des Suisses, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Palace of Versailles, exit through the Orangerie gate. Follow the Allée des Peupliers. The Pièce d'Eau des Suisses will be visible on your left. There are multiple access points around the perimeter of the lake.
Public Transport

From Versailles Chantiers train station, take bus line 171 and get off at Place d'Armes. From there, walk south along the Avenue de Paris, then turn left onto Rue de l'Indépendance Américaine. The lake will be on your right. A single bus fare is approximately €2.

Discover more about Pièce d'Eau des Suisses

The Pièce d'Eau des Suisses, or Swiss Water Basin, is a prominent feature of the Versailles landscape, situated at the southern end of the palace gardens. This expansive body of water was created between 1679 and 1682 when a regiment of Swiss Guards, in the service of King Louis XIV, excavated a marshy area to drain the land for the Potager du Roi (the King's vegetable garden). The lake's name is a direct reference to these Swiss Guards.Measuring 682 meters in length and 234 meters in width, the Pièce d'Eau des Suisses covers an area of approximately 13 hectares, with an average depth of 1.70 meters. Its creation not only served a practical purpose but also contributed to the aesthetic appeal of the Versailles gardens, enhancing the perspective from the Orangerie. Bordered by double rows of two-century-old plane trees, the lake provides a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls and picnics.Over the centuries, the Pièce d'Eau des Suisses has served various purposes. In the past, it was often the site of nautical festivals during the Ancien Régime. Today, it is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. A statue of Louis XIV on horseback, sculpted by Bernini and later transformed into Marcus Curtius, stands at the southern end of the lake, adding a touch of history and art to the scenery. The lake is open to pedestrians and cyclists from 7 am to 7 pm.