The Royal Eure Valley
Just like the Kings of France, who used to love staying in the different châteaux in this valley, come and enjoy its wealth of heritage buildings and gentle way of life.
Have a holiday in the Royal Eure Valley just like the Kings of France !
Discover the story of Madame de Maintenon, a real-life fairy tale of a woman born in prison who became the secret wife of King Louis XIV ! Maybe you have heard of Diane de Poitiers, Diane the huntress, a modern, sport loving woman much loved by Henry II. And if you thought that all the Kings of France are buried in the Basilica of Saint-Denis, then think again ! Louis-Philippe has a majestic tomb in the Chapelle Royale in Dreux.
History buffs can discover or rediscover these pages of history by visiting the Château d’Anet, the Château de Maintenon, the Chapelle Royale Saint Louis at Dreux and many other fine residences and fortified farms. The Château de Maintenon organises a remarkable event every year, just before Christmas : Le Fabuleux Noël du Château de Maintenon, a show which recounts the story of Madame de Maintenon featuring more than 800 actors.
Children can also have fun learning about life in a château or the history of the monarchs of France through booklets available at the different places to visit. The Eure Valley has lots of outdoor activities too and cycle trails which take you past magnificent buildings.
In summer, the Château de Maintenon organises ‘ Parties de Campagne’, riverside picnics in a 1900’s setting where you can encounter the Duke and Duchess de Noailles, your hosts for an evening wher the Belle Epoque has pride of place.