Well had this on other towns and not in my beloved Versailles! I need to put this in my blog and use my pictures from my vault to tell you a bit on the wonderful gorgeous Grand Canal of the Château de Versailles, part II !!! Hope you enjoy it as I.
We came to the Grand Canal,many times, it is a wonderful spot for walks and jogging all the way to Gally. It occupies 24 ha, measuring 1500 meters long and 62 meters wide ,and 1070 meters by 80 meters for the transverse arm with an average depth of 2 meters, and a total periphery of 5.5 km, extends in its main axis the perspective of the garden of the Palace of Versailles towards infinity. Bordered by beeches, oaks, fresnes and cherry trees, it forms a harmonious whole. The Grand Canal in the Domaine de Versailles is the largest basin in the park. In the shape of a cross, it was built between 1667 and 1679, at the instigation of Le Nôtre. Before that date the park, closed by a gate, stopped behind the bassin des Cygnes or Swan Basin. This monumental piece of water was nevertheless successfully built, cutting off the Ru de Gally which was used to feed the canal.
You can do a tour of the Grand Canal that will allow you to discover superb views of the Palace of Versailles. The distance to be covered is 5.5 km. It takes approximately: 1h to 1h15 by walk, 25 to 30 minutes by bike ,and 35 to 40 minutes in rollerblading ,so they tell me. The Allée des Matelots from Route de Saint Cyr D10 Also from the Grand Trianon along the Ave de Trianon into the Allée de Bailly Most visitors stop by the resto area after the Char of Apollon, but go further keep walking is gorgeous we used to do a lot walks and jogging here with the boys, By the allée de Bailly you can continue on the right side with back on palace ,continue to the Etoile Royale , go around it into the allée Royale if the grille Royale is open you can go into the Ferme de Gally (see post) ,this provide foodies to the palace and same family now since 1741! It is independant and a great source of fruits, veggies, flowers, plants for us to buy there, you too,All wonderful sublime Versailles !!!
The Grand Canal’s layout today takes the form of a cross, with the main east-west perspective located along the axis of the palace and measuring 1.67 km. The perpendicular branch (which was dug first), oriented north-south and 1 km long, consists of two arms: the northern one leading to Trianon is 400 meters long, while the southern one, which heads towards the Royal Menagerie (now disappeared), is 600 meters long. These two north-south and east-west axes are both 62 meters wide and cover an area of 24 hectares, with a perimeter of 5.5 km. Initially bordered by four rows of elm trees, it is adorned with statues by Tuby, created from sketches by Le Brun, depicting children and seahorses. Once the work was completed in 1679, the Grand Canal would serve as the starting point for the fireworks displays given during the sumptuous royal celebrations that Louis XIV organized at Versailles.
The boat ride on the Grand Canal. A truly relaxing experience, ideal as a bucolic interlude between a visit to the Palace and the Trianon Palaces.A boat trip is truly magnificent! Rental point on the banks of the Grand Canal, near Little Venice. Call the palace, tourist office ahead for schedules and current tariffs, You can have maximum of 4 people per boat or 5 if children are present. An adult (18 years old) must be present in each boat. The boats are easy to access and in good condition, and are a very comfortable size. They are wide and relatively stable. They are made of plastic.A number to call ahead for info is +33 (0)1 39 66 97 66, Some encouragements to do it in my dear palace of Versailles, are majestic Perspective: Cruising these waters offers a panoramic view of the palace, highlighting its imposing facades and French gardens. It’s an opportunity to see the palace from a lesser-known perspective, far from the usual clichés. A haven of peace: Amidst the hustle and bustle of tourism, the Grand Canal offers an oasis of tranquility. The gentle lapping of the water, the sound of birdsong, and the caress of the wind create a soothing atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of large crowds. A journey through time: While rowing along, it’s easy to imagine the lavish parties organized by kings/queens, where courtiers sailed in small boats. Ecological discovery: The Grand Canal is also a rich biotope. Observe the carp, ducks, and swans, and familiarize yourself with the aquatic fauna that inhabits this water. Intergenerational activity: Whether families with children, couples seeking romance, or seniors looking for a gentler experience, rowing is universal and brings together all generations. Sports and relaxation: For those at the helm, it’s a great opportunity to combine physical activity and relaxation. The physical effort is moderate, accessible, and enjoyable. Intimacy and romance: For couples, this is an opportunity to share a special moment, a romantic tête-à-tête in a majestic setting, evoking the legendary love affairs that have marked the palace’s history.
The official Château de Versailles on the park and canal : https://en.chateauversailles.fr/discover/estate/park
The Versailles tourist office on the park : https://en.versailles-tourisme.com/park-of-versailles-palace.html
The city of Versailles on Versailles: https://www.versailles.fr/65/decouvrir-versailles.htm
There you go folks, enjoy this masterpiece of a pond in a gorgeous sublime palace for all humanity. We love it, hope you do too, its a must even for it alone! indeed our favorite playground with the boys! Again, hope you enjoy this post on the Grand Canal of the Château de Versailles, part II as I.
And remember, happy travels, good health, and many cheers to all !!!
Paris1972-Versailles2003 