Background

Marie Antoinette's Grotto: A Royal Hideaway

Discover Marie Antoinette's Grotto in Versailles: a picturesque retreat embodying the elegance and charm of French royal history.

4.7

Tucked away in the English Garden of Versailles' Trianon Estate, Marie Antoinette's Grotto offered the queen a serene escape from court life. This enchanting retreat features a whimsical, naturalistic design with rock formations, a small waterfall, and lush greenery, providing a glimpse into the private world of French royalty.

A brief summary to Marie Antoinette's Grotto

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on potentially uneven paths.
  • Check the Palace of Versailles website for the garden's opening hours, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or summer to see the gardens in full bloom.
  • Explore the surrounding English Garden, including the Temple of Love and the Belvedere.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Palace of Versailles, exit the main gates and walk towards the Grand Canal. Follow Avenue de Paris to the Grand Canal, turn left, and walk along the waterfront. Pass the Petit Trianon on your left and continue to the English Garden. The grotto is a short walk from the garden entrance.

  • Public Transport

    From Versailles Rive Droite train station, take Bus Line 26 towards 'Château de Versailles'. Get off at the 'Château de Versailles' stop and walk towards the palace. Follow the walking directions above to reach Marie Antoinette's Grotto. A single bus ticket costs €2.

  • Car

    From Paris, take the A13 motorway towards Rouen. Take exit 5 for Versailles and follow signs to the Château de Versailles. Park in one of the designated parking areas, such as Place d'Armes, which costs €4.80/hour for the first 4 hours, then €2.40/hour. From the parking area, walk towards the gardens and follow signs for the Domaine de Trianon and the English Garden.

Unlock the Best of Marie Antoinette's Grotto

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Marie Antoinette's Grotto

Marie Antoinette's Grotto, nestled within the expansive gardens of the Palace of Versailles, is a captivating testament to the queen's desire for a private sanctuary. Completed in 1782, the grotto is part of the Domain of Trianon, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature, away from the formalities of royal life. The grotto's design reflects the 18th-century taste for Anglo-Oriental gardens, replacing Louis XV's botanical gardens with a more naturalistic landscape. The structure incorporates stalactites, seashells, and colorful stones, creating a visually stunning interior. A small waterfall cascades down the rock face, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. Light filters through openings in the rock, casting shadows within the cave-like space. Legend has it that Marie Antoinette was in the grotto when she received news of the approaching mob in 1789. The grotto's secluded location and hidden entrance at the peak of the artificial outcrop fueled rumors of secret passages and illicit activities. Today, visitors can wander through the grotto's winding paths, imagining the queen seeking refuge within its walls. The surrounding English Garden features meticulously designed landscapes, charming pathways, and diverse flora that changes with the seasons.

Popular Experiences near Marie Antoinette's Grotto

Popular Hotels near Marie Antoinette's Grotto

Select Currency