Near Paris lies Versailles, one of the most impressive royal palaces in Europe. The palace is on the RER train line only about 45 min from downtown and well worth the trip. The French royal family made this their home until a minor disagreement with the population forced the removal of the family from power and the removal of their heads from their bodies - aka the French Revolution.
Unfortunately, the palace buildings are closed on Monday like many things in France. We were able to access the gardens and even rented an electric golf cart to drive a fixed route through the gardens. An audio tour also highlighted the features. It is still amazing that the palace is well maintained including impressive rows of trees all manicured to the exact height and width. The French hated their king, but apparently were fine with the palace. It must be sweet revenge to have the commoners now hiking around the royal grounds.
The gardens also have large water features that are very popular with the locals. Boats can be rented or just relaxing by the water. Notice how the rows of trees are all in perfect alignment.
Also in Versailles is a gothic style cathedral open to the public. The cathedrals of Europe are very impressive and have lots of neat stained glass and carved wood. The above picture captured the afternoon light passing through the glass casting colored light on the chapel.
Rest assured that the interior of Versailles is even more impressive, just make sure to avoid Mondays! Enjoy the rest of the pictures below.
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