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Bassin du Miroir: Reflecting the Grandeur of Versailles

Experience the serene beauty of the Bassin du Miroir, a jewel within the historic Gardens of Versailles.

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The Bassin du Miroir, or Mirror Pool, is a captivating water feature in the Gardens of Versailles, France, designed by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century. Its reflective surface enhances the visual experience, offering a glimpse into the opulence of King Louis XIV's era.

A brief summary to Bassin du Miroir

  • Monday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene reflections on the pool.
  • Check the official website for the schedule of Musical Gardens and Fountains shows to witness the water displays.
  • Bring comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the Bassin du Miroir.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Palace of Versailles, walk along the central path towards the Latona Fountain. Continue past the Parterre d'Eau, and the Bassin du Miroir will be on your left, near the Allée du Mail. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No additional costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Versailles Rive Gauche train station (accessible via RER C from Paris), walk towards the Palace of Versailles. Enter the gardens and follow the signs towards the Grand Canal. The Bassin du Miroir is located between the Grand Canal and the Palace, a short walk from the Bosquet de la Colonnade. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.90.

  • Driving

    If driving, several paid parking options are available near the Palace of Versailles. From the Place d'Armes car park, enter the palace grounds and walk towards the gardens. Follow signs to the Grand Canal; the Bassin du Miroir is a short walk away. Parking rates vary, with the Place d'Armes car park charging €1.20 for 15 minutes for the first 4 hours. The Palace Park entrance fee via the Grille de la Reine is €12 per car.

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Discover more about Bassin du Miroir

The Bassin du Miroir, also known as the Mirror Fountain, is a stunning reflecting pool located within the Gardens of Versailles. Created around 1702 under the supervision of landscape architect André Le Nôtre, it exemplifies classical French garden design. The pool was strategically designed to mirror the sky and surrounding landscape, creating a visually striking effect that adds to the garden's sense of infinite space. Located near the Grand Canal and the Bosquet de la Colonnade, the Bassin du Miroir is a key feature of the Versailles gardens. Originally, it complemented the grand Bassin de l'Île Royale, now the Jardin du Roi. The wall supporting the Île Royale was designed with architectural cascades, creating a dynamic interplay between the two water features. The fountain is spread across three levels adorned with sculptures. The lower level features sculptures of children, while the upper level showcases sculptured Cupids by Jean Hardy. Two impressive dragon sculptures, also by Hardy, flank the fountain, adding a mythical touch. Today, the Bassin du Miroir continues to enchant visitors with its beauty and historical significance. During the Musical Gardens and Musical Fountains shows, the fountains come alive with choreographed water displays set to Baroque music. These performances highlight the fountain's dynamic beauty, offering a sensory delight for visitors. The gardens, including the Bassin du Miroir, are accessible to visitors with mobility issues, with wheelchairs available for rent and paved pathways throughout.

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