Palace of Versailles (Chateau de Versailles): is a royal chateau just outside Paris. When Louis XIV moved to Versailles from Paris in 1682, the Court of Versailles became the focus of power in France and remained so until the royal family was forced to return to the capital in 1789. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is particularly famous for the Hall of Mirrors, containing 357 mirrors and is a spectacular sight.
Rouen: also makes for a pleasant break from the city, with a number of parks and woodlands as well as some interesting architecture. The focal point of the town is the Notre Dame Cathedral with its 14th century gatehouse and large gilt clock. There is a good art gallery, Musee des Beaux-Arts which contains predominantly 17th to 19th century works, including masterpieces by Monet and Renoir. The journey from Paris takes just over an hour by car.
