The Great Outdoors of Versailles

Isabella Scarinzi is a student at the Oklahoma Baptist University and is an ISA Featured Blogger. She is studying abroad with ISA in Paris, France.

It has been four weeks since I arrived in Paris for my fall study abroad program, and there is so much to see and do! Going to museums, eating incredible food, seeing historical locations, and people-watching in my favorite café are just some of the options I have been presented with.

Figuring out what to visit first can be a little overwhelming, as it’s difficult to make a decision. So my plan for this semester is to first explore the outdoor locations while it’s still warm outside, and then visit the museums and indoor places when the weather cools down. From what I had a chance to see so far, the Versailles Gardens are definitely on the top of my list.

Even though Versailles is not in Paris, getting there by train is easy and already included in the Navigo (a monthly pass that gives unlimited access to the metros, buses, and trains in the region of Paris). The gardens cover 800 hectares, which means that walking around can take the whole day, and it is worth it!

It was laid out by the landscape architect André Le Nôtre for Louis XIV, and the garden’s original design from 1661 remains mostly the same. It is a dynamic visit, combining a view of nature and historical sculptures.

The Great Canal is in the center of the garden, and it gives a perspective of an infinite property to the visitor. It was a place where the French kings held parties, sailed on boats, and had firework shows. A must see!

My favorite parts about this day trip included packing lunch for a picnic in a royal location, getting lost while wondering around, and seeing how every detail plays a part in making this one of the most beautiful gardens in the world!

If you are ever around the region of Paris and looking for a great outdoor location to visit, I recommend you go explore the great outdoors of Versailles!

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