Paris Chateaux  Although the Loire valley or the Dordogne are really the places to go for chateaux lovers, the Paris region boasts two chateaux that are totally spectacular!  With so much space in the grounds the children will love the freedom here (I still remember a trip to the Château de Versailles when I was in my teens, more than twenty years ago - Webmaster!)

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
Location: On D215, 6km NE of Melun (55km SE of Paris).
General Description: 77950 Maincy. Tél: 0(1) 64 14 41 90. www.vaux-le-vicomte.com. Open 14th March – 8th Nov ’09. Closed Wednesdays except in July/Aug. The summertime candlelight visit is  magical and can be enjoyed 2nd May-10th Oct (except 12th Sept). The Château is closed between 13.00-14.00. Prices: Adults €12.50 and children aged 6-16 €10. €39 for family of 2+2.
Description: This magnificent Palace is a delight to visit at any time of the year. There is much to see and do, not least in the splendid Le Nôtre designed gardens. The château was the inspiration (by the jealous Sun King, Louis XIV) for the Royal Palace at Versailles which gives some indication of its grandeur and opulence. Special events are held throughout the year – check their web-site for details.
Our Recommendations: Make a day of your visit and in good weather picnic in the park or else enjoy an excellent lunch at the Restaurant l’Ecureuil.
For the children: Obtain the English booklet ‘The Great Mystery Game’ at the main Château entrance whereby children can search for clues regarding the life of Fouquet and the history of Vaux-le-Vicomte during their visit. Also visit the Dôme for splendid views over the grounds (age restrictions apply).

If you have a car you could easily make a day trip to one of the superb renaissance chateaux of the Loire valley.