There's so much to see, do and learn about, that the following is just a dip in the ocean...
Fontainebleau has something to offer for all tastes and interests and the picturesque surrounding villages make for lovely weekend escapades. The area has been home to and the inspiration of figures such as Victor Hugo, George Sand, Camille Pissaro and Jean Renoir. It is also just a hop, skip and jump away from Paris.
The 12th century Château that was home to French kings from François I and Louis XIV to Napoleon is a must-see for anyone coming to INSEAD. It is open everyday except Tuesday for guided and non-guided as well as theme visits, set amidst beautiful gardens and lakes which are open daily.
Click here for more details on visits, entrance fees and times.
At INSEAD's doorstep and covering 25,000 hectares of land, the forest of Fontainebleau provides walkers and hikers of all levels with spectacular trails. It is particularly well-known for its unusual rock formations and attracts climbers throughout the year. Whether walking or horse riding, the forest provides the perfect setting to unwind and often delights visitors with unexpected sightings of deer, wild boar and other birds and animals.
Fontainebleau is considered the capital of equestrian France and has a long tradition in the equestrian arts. It boasts two race tracks : The Hippodrome 'Grand Parquet' which hosts international competitions throughout the year including the "Grande Semaine de l'Elevage" - a week-long competition for young riders from across the world; and the Hippodrome de la Solle inaugurated in the 19th century by Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie.
Riding schools throughout the region offer courses and day excursions for riders of any age and experience. And riding through the forest is an incomparable experience.
The idyllic town of Barbizon is just a 15-minute drive from Fontainebleau and is a haven for artists and art lovers alike. Visitors can wander the picturesque streets or dine at one of the village's renowned restaurants.
Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV's superintendant of finances built the stunning chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte in the 17th century. It was such a lavish construction that the king himself was envious and court intrigue bought about Fouquet's downfall. The king then commissioned the construction of Versailles which drew its inspiration and even some of its furnishings from Vaux-le-Vicomte.
Today it is a popular location for period dramas and films. From May to September in the late evenings visitors can visit the chateau by candlelight and enjoy classical music in the grounds.
This seventh-century medieval city is also the former fortress of the Dukes of Champagne. The middle ages come alive again through the many events organised here from March through November. An underground labyrinth of tunnels creates a maze beneath the town and can be visited throughout the year.
This sleepy village offers a delightful view of one of the oldest stone bridges and weirs in the Ile-de-France region. Two impressive fortified gateways date back to the middle ages while cobblestone roads and half-timbered houses add to the charm of the scenery that inspired so many impressionists. The painter, Albert Sisley, spent his last years here, and the Albert Sisley Museum on the banks of the river is a tribute to his work.
Click here for information on activities and exhibitions.
The Champagne region is situated a mere hour to the northwest of Fontainebleau and the fine vineyards of Burgundy can also be reached in less than 90 minutes. Visitors can enjoy a scenic journey by car or train and tour the chateaux to sample the fine wines and champagnes.
For further information on any of the features above or for general information when visiting Fontainebleau, contact the Fontainebleau Tourist Office
OFFICE DE TOURISME
4 rue Royale
77300 FONTAINEBLEAU
Tel: + 33 (0)1.60.74.99.99
Fax: + 33 (0)1.60.74.80.22
fontainebleau.tourisme@wanadoo.fr
