The other night as I watched Marie Antoinette for the hundredth time, I was reminded of how I fell madly in love with the Château de Versailles. After visiting Versailles in the summer of 2011 when I lived in Paris, I felt convinced that God had made a serious mistake by not birthing me as French royalty. As an aspiring princess and lover of all things French, this ornate and lavish castle left me awestruck. I was entranced by the elaborate gold decorations, extravagant chandeliers, ornate fountains and flawless gardens. I'll admit that everything in Versailles is completely over the top, but that is exactly what makes it so majestic. Besides, the entire purpose of creating Versailles back in 1682 was to boast France's supreme power and authority. "Modesty" was the last thing on Louis XIII's mind when creating this marvelous castle. From the Hall of Mirrors to the King's Chamber, every little detail about Versailles exudes glamour, luxury and grandiose fabulosity. So really, it's no surprise that I'm completely obsessed.
My favorite part of Versailles was undoubtedly Marie Antoinette's estate outside of the château, the Petit Trianon and the surrounding countryside village. In this quaint, quintessentially French village lies several picturesque cottages, a small farm, and a beautiful lake comfortably situated next to a field of golden sunflowers. It is a haven full of luscious flowers, overflowing nature and timeless charm. Despite being completely exhausted from touring the castle and getting lost in the gardens all day, I did not want to leave this charming escape.
Another magnificent highlight was doing some serious damage at Ladurée within the castle - home of the world's best (and most expensive) macarons. Heaven. Although I toted my large gift bag through the expansive gardens and Marie Antoinette's sprawling domain, the extra baggage was completely worth it when I finally sat down in the middle of the countryside village and enjoyed my decadent rose and blackcurrant violet macarons. What can I say, when in Versailles...
My only complaint is that I wish I didn't have to leave. I could have wandered the castle for hours more, explored the gardens for days, and lounged about Marie Antoinette's estate for the rest of my life. Let them eat (gluten free) cake!
Another magnificent highlight was doing some serious damage at Ladurée within the castle - home of the world's best (and most expensive) macarons. Heaven. Although I toted my large gift bag through the expansive gardens and Marie Antoinette's sprawling domain, the extra baggage was completely worth it when I finally sat down in the middle of the countryside village and enjoyed my decadent rose and blackcurrant violet macarons. What can I say, when in Versailles...
Post Comment
Post a Comment