For years, a favorite yuletide activity for Parisians is a day trip to the splendid Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte for the Christmas festivities. Dating from the 17th century, the privately owned chateau—the original inspiration for the palace of Versailles—stages a Noel to remember. Festive decorations fill each room, the smell of cinnamon and spices wafts through the corridors, the gardens are strung with lights, and an enormous Christmas tree lords over the Grand Salon. There are gifts and games for the children, and sometimes theater productions take place.
New in 2019: The Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte is swinging open its gilded gates on Christmas Eve exclusively for the guests of La Réserve Paris. The palace hotel has teamed up with the chateau for an evening to remember. Transported via helicopter the 35 miles from Paris, guests will enjoy a Christmas dinner prepared by the hotel’s Michelin-starred chef Jérôme Banctel paired with wines from Cos d’Estournel. (The dinner is available for up to 15 friends and family.) Following the feast, guests will take a carriage ride around the gardens, designed by Andre Le Nôtre, the Sun King’s gardener. The cherry on the gateau: The soiree will conclude with a fireworks display over the chateau.
As part of this exclusive experience offered by La Réserve Paris, guests will also be privy to a cruise on the Seine, a VIP visit of the Eiffel Tower, a guided tour of the Louvre, and a private shopping trip around the city. While you’re at La Réserve Paris during the holidays, don’t miss the limited edition yule log, accented with champagne and fruit.
Related Articles
French Grandeur: Top Suites in Paris
Diane Von Furstenberg Will Design Claridge's' Christmas Tree