Les Jardins de Versailles - Part II

After exploring the the sumptuous rooms of the palace Mamma T and I decided that it was time to venture into the gardens to enjoy the sunshine, have a picnic and to stroll around the grounds. The gardens are free to everyone which means that there is a mix of tourists, joggers and couples shading themselves leisurely amongst the trees. Despite being formal gardens and in France we were free to sit on the grass and decided to picnic by one of the grand statues. Unfortunately the water was not on for the fountains and I was informed that there are specified water shows which really show the garden off in all its glory. 

I love how happy Mamma T looks in this photo

The main formal gardens are set out in a rectangular grid that leads down to the Grand Canal and we weaved our way amongst the wide shady boulevards and the lush green hedges that bordered the paths. Statues greeted us around every corner and the views of the Chateau were absolutely incredible. Unlike the beautifully planted and overflowing gardens that are often synonymous with large palaces, the gardens at Versailles were divinely understated. I mean that in the pleasantest way. 

We stopped for a sorbet and sat on the banks of the Canal, lying in the sun and just appreciating the incredible display of natural and man-made beauty that surrounded us. The old fashioned sorbet stall was an old car and the vendor was the friendliest ice cream man I have ever come across. My lemon sorbet was so bitter and refreshing and gave me the energy to walk back to the Palace. The chateau de Versailles is not a day out for the faint hearted and the ache in my feet proved how much we walked. 

My favourite part of the gardens was the Orangerie were we stopped to pick a few oranges, fresh from the trees (or pretended to anyway). The palm trees, the hazy heat and the fresh smell of vegetation transported us to a tropical land and it was impossible not to be impressed at the incredible sculpture and topiary. 

The best thing about the gardens was that they are absolutely free and would make the perfect afternoon trip for a picnic with friends or even just a good book. 

Mood - Refreshed 

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