The Gardens of Versailles

Though the iconic chateau is extravagant in all it's excess, what I love most about Versailles are the expansive and well-tended gardens. Stretching for what seems like miles, the gardens are filled with row upon row of hedges, more fountains than you can count, and stunning views of the palace. 

During our trip to France, we opted to skip the chateau altogether (and the lines and stress that come with it) and instead head straight to the gardens as soon as they opened. The early morning is a spectacular time to visit, as the sun is just rising above the palace (where most of the crowds still are) and you nearly have the garden all to yourself to explore. It's fun to simply wander and get lost in the beauty, admire the statues and wonder what it may have been like to stroll these very same paths as a royal a couple hundred years back.

Until next time,

- B