It began life as a modest hunting lodge built by Louis XIII in 1623, but under the ownership of Louis XIV, Versailles became a magnificent palace renowned throughout the world. Over the course of more than 100 years, and during numerous successions to the throne, the building was embellished and enlarged to accommodate the court of Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI. Now considered one of the finest achievements of French art, the Palace of Versailles remains a cultural …
It began life as a modest hunting lodge built by Louis XIII in 1623, but under the ownership of Louis XIV, Versailles became a magnificent palace renowned throughout the world. Over the course of more than 100 years, and during numerous successions to the throne, the building was embellished and enlarged to accommodate the court of Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI. Now considered one of the finest achievements of French art, the Palace of Versailles remains a cultural symbol of royal splendour.
Set within the gates of Versailles, this historic mansion, called "Le Grand Contrôle," was built in 1681 by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, Louis XIV’s favourite architect and an icon of French classicism. The grandiose building once played host to Europe’s political and cultural elite, from ambassadors and artists, to musicians, writers and scientists of the Enlightenment.
Now, more than two centuries later, Le Grand Contrôle has been entirely restored, offering guests an exclusive peek into the world of Versailles. Unlock access to the 2,000 acre-strong gardens, retrace famous footsteps and explore the palace halls and apartments like never before.
With 14 sumptuous Rooms and Suites replete with period furnishings and fittings for a royal stay, guests are invited to step back in history, but one coupled with contemporary comforts.
Paying homage to the rich history, every element at Le Grand Contrôle touches upon its former 18th-century splendour, from carefully-sourced interiors, right down to the uniforms worn by the welcome team. Furniture and paintings that once had a place in the palace have been reunited with their former home. Technology has been thoughtfully considered throughout; in place of TVs, guests will instead discover views of the Orangery Garden and the Lake of the Swiss Guards beautifully framed by drapery, whilst the lighting has been sensitively designed in keeping with 18th-century styling.
Throughout their stay, guests will enjoy revamped takes on royal classics - from the Alain Ducasse restaurant to the Valmont Spa. As always, the art of French service is taken to sublime levels as guests are treated like nobility at every opportunity.
When it comes to sustainability, historical traditions have been replaced with 21st-century thinking, with new technology embraced throughout the hotel. Geothermal energy has been used to heat the building whilst LED lights give new life to antique chandeliers. Ingredients for the restaurant have been sourced from local suppliers, and guests will find zero single-use plastics in rooms.
To ensure a memorable trip, every stay at Le Grand Contrôle will unlock a host of exclusive benefits and privileged access to Château de Versailles and its grounds. A highlight of any stay, explore a different part of the Palace ‘after hours’ every evening with a complimentary exclusive tour. Along with access to the main areas of the Palace of Versailles, your guide will also reveal previously unseen spaces. Keen to venture beyond the gardens of Versailles? As part of your stay, you can also enjoy a complimentary exclusive tour of the Domaine de Trianon every morning, as your guide uncovers a new room and garden every time.
For a seamless experience from check in to check out, every guest will be assigned a dedicated butler, with no request too big or small. To keep guests fueled for adventure, breakfast - created by Alain Ducasse - is included in the stay, along with complimentary minibar and daily Afternoon Tea.
Perfect for exploring, guests will also receive unlimited complimentary access to electric golf carts and electric boats. For those keen to keep up with fitness goals, private yoga and fitness classes are available on request whilst full access to the Valmont Spa allows for royal relaxation.
For those seeking something incredible special, this stay allows you to book Le Grand Contrôle for privatization as a whole. Whether it’s for a whirlwind 24 hours, a decadent weekend or a week long takeover, you can own the keys to Le Grand Contrôle. With every detail considered, the dedicated team will be available to help curate and create an unforgettable stay, complete with delicious feasts and daily itineraries packed full of adventures.
With the option to host up to 36 guests, shared between the lavish 14 Rooms & Suites, expect to sleep, dine and relax like royalty, with exclusive use of the Alain Ducasse bar & restaurant and Valmont Spa. With the hotel closed to the public, this will be your chance to retrace famous footsteps and indulge uninterrupted...
Explore the Palace and the Estate of Trianon like never before thanks to exclusive after-hour tours.
Wedding proposal, birthday party, mother-daughter weekend, or renewal of vows -- no matter the occasion, we will be able to fulfill your wildest ideas. Entrust us with your celebrations, we will give them all the panache they deserve.
The Fargeon Room is dedicated to Jean-Louis Fargeon, Marie-Antoinette's perfumer. Designed for two people, the 25m² attic room boasts spectacular period features, from its original exposed wooden beams to its natural stone tiled floor, authentically restored based on the apartments of Le Petit Contrôle.
Located in Le Petit Contrôle, the Orry Room is dedicated to Philibert Orry, the esteemed French statesman and Louis XV’s second longest-serving minister. The luscious, light-filled room for two people pays homage to the original spirit of the building, with a statement marble fireplace, chevron parquet flooring and 18th-century furniture. Guests will enjoy views over the main courtyard and of the Lake of the Swiss Guards.
Located on the second floor of the Grand Contrôle, the Calonne Room is dedicated to Charles-Alexandre de Calonne, Controller-General of Finances and minister of Louis XVI from 1783 to 1787. Designed for two people, the generous ceiling height, along with charming views over the Palace, chevron parquet flooring and period furniture, give this 35m² Room unique character. For a playful nod towards the French inventors, the Montgolfier brothers, and their ties with the Palace, guests will discover hot air balloon motifs throughout the interior.
Located on the third floor of Le Petit Contrôle building, the Rose Bertin Room pays tribute to Rose Bertin, the first dressmaker of the Kingdom, seen by Marie-Antoinette as the "Minister of Fashion”. The charm of the old and the historical character are perfectly restored here thanks to the superb terracotta tiles on the floor and the exposed period beams.
The story of Jules Hardouin-Mansart, architect of the Hôtel du Grand Contrôle, the Hall of Mirrors, the Grand Trianon and the Royal Chapel, comes to life in this Room with its hushed and intimate atmosphere, located in Le Petit Contrôle. Designed for two people, the elegance of this Room, with its wall panelling, chevron parquet flooring, period fireplace and furniture, is enhanced by beautiful views of the Orangery Garden, the Lake of the Swiss Guards and the main courtyard of Le Grand Contrôle.
The Baron de Staël-Holstein Junior Suite takes over the apartment that was once home to Baron de Staël-Holstein, Chamberlain of Queen Sophia Magdalena and Swedish ambassador to France. Designed for two people, this Junior Suite is beautifully decorated with antique furniture, handcrafted 18th-century ornaments, and chevron parquet flooring. Guests will discover a freestanding bathtub and generously sized bed to ensure the utmost comfort. For the ultimate Versailles experience, this Suite overlooks the main courtyard of Le Grand Contrôle, with additional views of the south wing of the Château.
The Turgot Junior Suite pays tribute to Anne-Robert-Jacques Turgot, one of Louis XVI's most important ministers and Controller-General of Finances from 1774 to 1776. Designed for two, guests will enjoy impressive high ceilings (over four metres high!), a generously sized bed and beautiful Versailles parquet flooring throughout the light and airy 50m² Suite. For those requiring a little more space to prepare for the day ahead, guests will discover a separate dressing Room. With views overlooking the Lake of the Swiss Guards, this is a very special Suite.
The elegant Orangery Room is inspired by Marie-Antoinette’s estate, Petit Trianon, gifted to her by her husband in 1774. Overlooking the garden, the Orangery Room features refined and historic details, including chevron parquet floors, a period marble fireplace, a wall tapestry and a thoughtfully sourced 18th-century crystal chandelier. Designed for two people, the 55m² Room boasts a sumptuous king-size bed. Perfect for apéritifs at sunset, the Room opens to an expansive 40m² terrace with extraordinary views of the Orangery Garden and the First Hundred Steps. It’s important to note that the Orangery Room also allows access for people with reduced mobility.
The Madame de Fouquet Room is inspired by the extraordinary life of the celebrated socialite who married the Marquis de Fouquet, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. Together they lived at Le Grand Contrôle until 1787. Designed for two people, this beautiful Room benefits from impressively high ceilings and a generous 60m² layout, with two bathrooms included. Meticulously adorned with delicate woodwork and period Versailles parquet floors, guests will discover 18th-century cornices and original bas reliefs that have been lovingly restored. Reminiscent of a royal bedchamber fit for Louis XVI, the Madame de Fouquet Room boasts a generous ‘à la polonaise’ four poster bed. Guests can relax and unwind on the spacious 30m² terrace that offers sprawling views of the gardens.
The spacious Premier Suite, decorated with wall panelling, chevron parquet flooring, a period fireplace and furniture. The Suite comes with a separate living room area, with sweeping views over the main courtyard of Le Grand Contrôle but also over the Lake of the Swiss Guards. La Suite Beauvilliers pays homage to the first ever resident of Le Grand Contrôle. This most auspicious space was once the office of the First Clerks, who held immense influence over France’s Secretaries of State. With a separate living room and convertible sofa bed, this large 70m² Suite is designed for three adults, or two adults with two children for those wanting to experience Versailles as a family. For the added wow factor, the Suite benefits from beautiful views over the main courtyard of Le Grand Contrôle and also of the Lake of the Swiss Guards.
The spacious Suite Loménie de Brienne, decorated with wall panelling, chevron parquet flooring, a period fireplace and furniture. Each Suite comes with a separate living room area, with sweeping views over the main courtyard of Le Grand Contrôle but also over the Lake of the Swiss Guards. | The Suite Loménie de Brienne, former office of Marc Etienne de Villiers du Terrage, lawyer at the parliament and First finance Commis, is dedicated to Cardinal Étienne-Charles de Loménie de Brienne. With thoughtfully sourced 18th-century antique furnishings and period fireplace, guests will also discover a beautiful roll top bathtub and a walk-in shower. This 70m² Suite comfortably sleeps three adults, or two adults with two children for those wanting to travel as a family thanks to a separate living room and convertible sofa bed. With views over the main courtyard of Le Grand Contrôle and also of the Lake of the Swiss Guards, the Loménie de Brienne Suite offers the ultimate Versailles experience.
This former apartment of the Marquis de Fouquet, a hero of the American Revolutionary War, has been restored in meticulous detail, staying true to the style of its original owner. A hark back to its storied past, the Marquis de Fouquet Suite draws focus to the heritage features, including antique wooden panelling, chevron parquet flooring throughout, a statement marble fireplace and meticulously sourced original period furniture. Designed for four people, the generous 90m² Suite boasts a separate living room area (with sofa bed) and for complete comfort, two bathrooms. With views over the Lake of the Swiss Guards, this is a special Suite rich in Versailles history.
This impressive Suite was once home to writer and philosopher Madame de Staël. The Madame de Staël spirit comes to life in this exceptionally spacious 150m² Suite, with triple aspects views of the Lake of the Swiss Guards, the Palace and the Orangery Garden. Designed for six people, it features two beautiful bedrooms, a spacious living room area (with sofa bed) and two bathrooms. | Fit for a royal bathtime, guests can enjoy a freestanding roll top bath with breathtaking views over the Orangery Garden. Throughout the Suite, discover pretty detailing in the 18th-century crystal chandeliers, whilst in the living room, intricate wall hangings and embellished drapery feature motifs inspired by Petit Trianon, where the former Queen, Marie-Antoinette once lived.
The spacious Necker Suite is the former private apartment of Jacques Necker, the finance minister and statesman who became a significant figure in the French Revolution. Serving under Louis XVI, he was arguably the most popular minister of the era. Designed for two, the grandest suite at Le Grand Controle boasts four metre high ceilings, and an impressive 120m² layout, perfect for those wanting to relive the lavish Palace lifestyle. | With Versailles parquet flooring throughout and a magnificent four-poster bed, guests will also benefit from a generous living room space. Featuring a freestanding bathtub of dreams, guests will enjoy breathtaking views over the lush Orangery Garden and the Palace from their bathroom. With triple aspect views, this light filled suite is a must for experiencing Le Grand Contrôle in all of its 18th-century splendour.
The morning, a Majestic Sunrise: Admire the breathtaking views of the Orangery and its gardens while enjoying an exceptional breakfast created by Chef Alain Ducasse. The breakfast that includes pastries, fresh fruits, cereals and organic cooked eggs, as well as French toast with salted caramel, and other classics with a twist.
At lunchtime, a Royal Feast Reimagined: As in the days of kings, lunch rivals dinner when it comes to the quantity of food on offer. Here, tradition and modernity blend together happily around a menu served over two, three or five courses. Take a seat at the king's table and be seduced by delicious dishes inspired by the great classics of French cuisine. Look out for the delicate mallard Galantine with foie gras and pistachios, the traditional Vol-au-vent, the Great Scallops with Jerusalem artichokes and truffles, and save room for the desserts; signature sweet plates such as L'Elixir de Louis XV with citrus fruits and cascara or L'Orangerie with chocolate and its crunchy praline. An immersive, gourmet experience to enjoy in the Grand Cabinet with its carefully reproduced period décor, or on the terrace. The chef invites you to take a culinary journey through time.
Afternoon Tea, All the Delights Marie-Antoinette would have enjoyed: In homage to Marie-Antoinette, afternoon tea will be served in the sitting room. Expect an assortment of finger sandwiches, Viennese-style brioche rolls, treats made by the pastry chef or even the much-adored Le Chocolat Alain Ducasse hot chocolate.
Not just a dinner, but an unforgettable experience: In the evening, the doors to the restaurant are thrown open and guests are treated with the same reverence and care as they would have been in the era of royalty. Take your seat and relish the immersive experience on offer. Inspired by the royal feasts, the seemingly endless dishes, designed by Chef Alain Ducasse, are brought out in successive waves called "services". Soups and starters are followed by roasts and salads, then puddings, and finally dessert. Like players in a well-orchestrated ballet, the team will place refined tableware from Alain's private collection. If you wish to dine in private, you will be welcomed in Marie-Antoinette's Cabinet in complete discretion.
Le Bar de la Chapelle: Synonymous with conviviality and enjoyment, the bar is the ideal place to while away a few hours before dinner. Discover the impressive collection of drinks on offer, each prepared by our head sommelier, and enjoy signature cocktails such as the “Royal Snowflake”; Champagne poured over a seasonally scented granite. We offer a wide range of sweet and savoury snacks, created by Chef Alain Ducasse, with our drinks in the Grand Salon or on the sunny bar terrace. Guests are invited to sit in the Grand Salon or on the sunny bar terrace.
The Sunday Brunch, the Unforgettable Feast: Every Sunday, the team has a feast prepared, signed Alain Ducasse – and to do so they have borrowed from the days of the Grand Couvert, when the mid-morning Sunday meal was open to the public and hosted by the king and queen, and their children and grandchildren. Classic dishes and seasonal ingredients are proposed to the guests, some of which are placed directly on the table and some of which are on the menu. You’ll discover the King's Soup on offer, chosen as a nod to the past. Guests with a sweet tooth will also be tempted by the irresistible buffet of pastries on display.
The Valmont Spa
Created in conjunction with the prestigious Swiss brand Valmont, the spa reflects the splendour of the Palace of Versailles. The statues and hand-painted frescos which surround the pool simply invite relaxation. Made up of several different areas, the spa offers a luxurious pool, sauna and hammam.
For a regal experience, Valmont offers a signature ritual in homage to Marie-Antoinette’s legendary beauty. ‘Majestic Mirror’ is a treatment which rejuvenates both your face and décolleté. Or you could be tempted by the Sun King Massage, designed with Maison Caulières, for an unequalled sense of wellbeing. For a manicure or pedicure, head to Salon Léonard, named after Marie-Antoinette’s favourite hairdresser Léonard-Alexis Autier.
A selection of snacks and hot and cold drinks are available for you to enjoy by the pool or in the spa salon. And for children, a menu of ‘Nougatine’ treatments takes care of their skin while gorgeous aromas transport them to a fairy tale land. In the gym, you can use cardio and weights machines overlooking the Lake of the Swiss Guards, with a personal trainer available by reservation.
Marie-Antoinette Workshops: Maison Caulières and Le Grand Contrôle have combined their expertise to create workshops that put guests in the shoes of Marie-Antoinette's craftsmen and the Queen herself! During this true moment of escape and sharing, discover her beauty secrets and recreate the unique treatments used by the Queen such as Eau de Rose or La Pâte Royale.
EXCLUSIVE TOUR OF THE TRIANON: Beyond the gardens of Versailles lies Trianon, and the Estate of Marie-Antoinette. As part of your stay at Le Grand Contrôle, enjoy complimentary access to this Le Grand Contrôle guests' exclusive tour, as your guide will unlock a new room and garden for you every morning, before opening hours. With a different tour route each time, expect to discover the true gems of Versailles - everything from Louis XIV’s Grand Trianon to the English Gardens lovingly created for Marie-Antoinette.
EXCLUSIVE TOUR OF THE CHÂTEAU: A highlight of any stay at Le Grand Contrôle, explore a different part of the Palace every evening, with our complimentary Le Grand Contrôle guests' exclusive tour after opening hours. You will discover the Palace of Versailles like never before. With access to the main areas of the Palace; the Hall of Mirrors, the State Apartments, or Marie-Antoinette's Private Chambers, your guide will also reveal previously unseen spaces and rooms.
AFTER HOURS ACCESS TO THE HALL OF MIRRORS: Enjoy Le Grand Contrôle guests' exclusive tour, after hours access to the most famous room in the Palace - The Hall of Mirrors. Explore the room and its 357 mirrors completely uninterrupted, as your personal guide helps you navigate the space at your own pace. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, this tour is packed full of wow factor, just remember to bring your camera!
STEP INTO THE WARDROBE OF VERSAILLES: A must-do for fans of the much-adored TV series, Versailles, enjoy exclusive access to the costumes used in the production, followed by a photoshoot in your suite to capture the moment.Whilst the photographer heads back to the ‘editing suite’ to prepare your photos, enjoy a decadent room service dinner served by your private butler, reminiscent of Louis XIV dining in his private apartment.
A SUPPER & SYMPHONY: Dine like royalty in one of our private salons classified as a Historical Monument and dedicated to Marie-Antoinette. In an original setting with breathtaking views of the Orangerie gardens this is a special opportunity for guests to dine like never before, and savour a feast of nine dishes imagined by Alain Ducasse, accompanied by a chamber music concert.
FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF MARIE-ANTOINETTE: Trace Marie-Antoinette’s fashionable footsteps with a day packed full of the former Queen’s favourites. Begin the day with your butler knocking on your door and live an unforgettable experience: «Le Lever de la Reine». After the exclusive visit of the Domaine de Trianon, enjoy a pamper session fit for royalty, with the Signature Treatment at the Valmont Spa, closely followed by a macaron tasting session. After lunch, you will be shown beautiful costumes and can put on the one of your choice, before having your hair and make-up done like Marie-Antoinette. While remaining in costume, we will propose you to taste our Afternoon Tea ''Les Délices de Marie-Antoinette'', in one of our private salons, classified as a Historical Monument and dedicated to the Queen. During this moment, you will plunge into her daily life: you will make a rose-infused water from the gardens of Versailles, just like the one used by the Queen, lover of Nature and its gardens, to obtain a fresh and soft skin.
FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ANDRÉ LE NÔTRE: One for keen horticulturists, explore the gardens of Versailles and the work of former Head Gardener to the royals, André Le Nôtre, with this exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. Begin with an exclusive tour of the gardens to work up an appetite, followed by a lavish three course picnic for two, set up by your butler on the Grand Canal lawns, out of sight. Following lunch, you’ll be invited into our vegetable garden by our Head Chef for an all-access tour. With a glass of Champagne, navigate the gardens and pick your own seasonal produce before heading to the kitchen for a one on one cooking lesson with our culinary team. Later on that evening, sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labour over a decadent Ducasse feast.
FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF BLAISE-HENRI ARNOULT: A true gem tucked away inside the Palace, The Royal Opera pushed mechanical boundaries, reinventing the way royalty entertained. Retrace the footsteps of Blaise-Henri Arnoult, First Theatre Technician to the King, with this lavish all-access experience. With the best seats in the house, enjoy your own private box for the show. Afterwards, go behind the stage curtain and join the cast for a celebratory toast, accompanied by your personal photographer to help capture the moment. Once the audience have departed, enjoy a very special 15 minute private concert on stage - a true once in a lifetime moment. Exit through the stage door, where your butler will be waiting with a lantern to accompany you back to Le Grand Contrôle through the gardens.
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Please note that pool heat is not guaranteed. If pool heat is available at this haven, it must be requested via email at least 7 days prior to check-in.
Our dedicated concierge team will be pleased to assist you in tailoring your one-of-a-kind stay. You can request services, experiences, and local area recommendations after booking. Please note that options will be subject to availability for your destination and travel dates.
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Discover a new standard for residential stays with havens bringing together the best of hospitality and home. Every reservation is backed by our signature triple-diamond Haven Guarantee, offering enhanced booking flexibility, professional 24/7 guest and emergency support, and an industry-leading Peace of Mind Guarantee.
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Enjoy a 24-Hour Risk Free Guarantee for bookings placed more than 30 days prior to check-in. Beyond that, we'll make every effort to work with property management to find options if your plans change, but refunds cannot be guaranteed and are on a best-effort basis. Cancellation fees may apply. Please note that any reservation overlapping with the week of major holidays, including Christmas and/or New Year’s, is fully non-refundable upon submission. We strongly recommend securing travel insurance, including Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, to protect against unexpected changes to your plans.
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