Why
Fontainebleau Chateau
is special

The Fontainebleau is a large, sprawling country royal palace with lavishly decorated rooms and a photogenic architectural design.

Fontainebleau
tips & insights

Original funtion

This wonder was initially a royal hunting lodge in the 12th century. It was built to take advantage of the abundance of game in the surrounding forest.

Evolved

Then, over the centuries, each royal family enlarged or enhanced the Fontainebleau chateau. However, most of what we see today was the inspiration of the 16th-century King Francois I.

Must-sees

Inside:

Grand (royal) Apartments
Ballroom

Outside:

Horseshoe-shaped staircase
Gardens

Fontainebleau Forest

Also visit the surrounding Fontainebleau Forest, a weekend-escape favorite of the Parisians. Activities include hiking, strolling, horseback riding, bicycling, rock climbing, and picnicking.

Near Paris

Fontainebleau Chateau is only 60 kilometers (about 40 miles) from Paris, making it a popular daytrip for tourists.

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