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Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum: A Living Museum of Trees

Explore a world of trees at the Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum, a verdant escape near the Palace of Versailles. Discover nature's beauty and diversity.

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The Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum, a 200-hectare botanical garden near the Palace of Versailles, showcases a vast collection of trees from around the world. Part of the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, it offers visitors a chance to explore diverse plant species in a serene setting.

A brief summary to Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Take advantage of the free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the extensive grounds.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic area.
  • Check the Arboretum's website for seasonal events, guided tours and temporary closures.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From any of the three Versailles railway stations (Versailles-Chantiers, Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche, or Versailles-Rive Droite), take bus B or H to the 'Centre Commercial Parly 2' stop. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the Arboretum entrance. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

  • Walking

    From the Palace of Versailles, the Arboretum is a considerable walk (approximately 5km). Follow the Route de Saint-Germain (D186) north. The walk takes approximately 1 hour.

  • By Car

    From Paris, take the A13 motorway and exit at Versailles Notre Dame-St Germain. Follow signs to Versailles, then take the entry ramp to the Parly II shopping mall and turn right. Parking is available near the Arboretum entrance. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum

The Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum, located a short distance north of the Palace of Versailles, is a living testament to the diversity of the world's temperate and cold-climate trees. Spanning 200 hectares, this botanical garden is part of the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, offering a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Originally conceived to complement the plant collections of the Jardin des Plantes in Paris, the Arboretum has a rich history dating back to Louis XIV, who incorporated the land into his hunting grounds. Over time, the estate evolved from farmland to a scientific arboretum, officially established in 1927. Today, it houses over 2,500 species and varieties of trees, with 8,000 plant species in its greenhouses, making it one of the largest collections in continental Europe. The Arboretum is thoughtfully organized into geographical and botanical zones. Visitors can wander through areas showcasing trees from Europe, Asia, and the Americas, as well as sections dedicated to specific botanical families. The site also features specialized collections, such as spruces, maples, lindens and oaks. The greenhouses display tropical plants that cannot survive in the Parisian climate. A visit to the Arboretum offers a chance to connect with nature, learn about plant species, and appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons. Whether exploring the vast outdoor collections or discovering exotic flora in the greenhouses, the Arboretum provides an enriching experience for all.

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