Nestled against the historic grandeur of The Palace of Versailles and just a short 30-40 minute journey from the heart of Paris, Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace, offers a retreat that beautifully merges royal history with the comforts of modern luxury. It’s a place where timeless elegance meets contemporary indulgence, and I couldn’t wait to share our magical family getaway to this beautiful place with you.
A Grand Royal Welcome
From the moment we arrived, this stunning hotel left us in awe. Situated just steps away from the iconic gates of the Palace of Versailles Gardens, the hotel’s majestic presence made us feel as though we were part of its storied history. The Waldorf Astoria’s exterior is a masterpiece of French classical architecture, featuring elegant balconies, grand windows, and a façade that exudes timeless sophistication.
Entering through the breathtaking Hall—bathed in natural light streaming through its towering glass windows—we felt instantly transported into a world of luxury and grace. The hall is a visual delight, with its checkered marble floors, high arched ceilings, and opulent chandeliers that sparkle in the sunlight. The atmosphere is a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern elegance. As we strolled through the hallways, we were captivated by the intricate details: polished columns, plush velvet seating, and striking artwork that adds a splash of contemporary flair. It’s a space designed for relaxation and conversation, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon drink or a quiet moment of reflection.
These corridors lead you deeper into the heart of the hotel, where you’ll find its stylish bar and renowned restaurants, including the Gordon Ramsay restaurant. Although it was closed during our stay, it’s yet another reason we’re eager to return and fully experience everything this magnificent hotel has to offer.
Luxury Accommodations
Our King Deluxe room was incredible. The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by the beautiful crown molding and intricate trim that framed the space, lending a touch of classic sophistication. The room’s centerpiece was an exquisite fireplace, adding a cozy, romantic charm that made us feel like we had our own private retreat.
But what really took our breath away was the balcony. Stepping out, we found ourselves overlooking the beautiful property gardens which neighbor the stunning gardens of the Palace of Versailles. The view was simply mesmerizing—a sea of perfectly manicured greenery stretching into the horizon. We spent our morning here, sipping coffee as the first rays of sunlight danced across the leaves. It was a moment of pure tranquility, feeling the gentle breeze and taking in the scent of the outdoors.
The pool at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles is nothing short of spectacular—a true highlight of the hotel's serene spa experience. Nestled beneath a magnificent glass ceiling, the pool is bathed in natural sunlight, creating a tranquil, airy atmosphere that feels both luxurious and inviting. The elegant architecture features classic balustrades and crisp white pillars, giving the space a refined, almost regal look that complements the historic setting of the hotel.
Breakfast at The Veranda: A Sunny Start to Our Day
Breakfast was served at The Veranda Room, a bright and airy sunroom filled with natural light. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered panoramic views of the gardens, making it the perfect spot to start our day. The buffet was a feast, featuring an array of freshly baked pastries that filled the room with the most delightful aroma. There was something for everyone—from buttery croissants and pain au chocolat to fresh seasonal fruits and a variety of hot breakfast options. We found ourselves lingering over our meal, enjoying the warm morning sun and the serene view outside. It was the kind of breakfast that makes you want to slow down and savor every moment.
Savoring Flavors at The Peacock Room
Dining at The Peacock Room was one of the highlights of our stay. The space was thoughtfully designed, with high ceilings, plush couches and low tables that created an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. This setup was perfect for our family, especially for Samuel. He had plenty of room to move around and explore, making it a stress-free experience for us as parents. We could enjoy our meal without constantly worrying about keeping him still, and the staff were wonderfully accommodating, even providing little treats to keep him entertained.
The food, of course, was nothing short of spectacular. We savored every bite of our gourmet burgers, which were perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. And the Royal Mojitos—what a refreshing twist with a splash of champagne! It was a celebratory drink that perfectly matched the elegance of the surroundings.
Unmatched Service with a Personal Touch
It’s the little moments that make a place unforgettable, and the service at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles was filled with thoughtful, heartwarming touches. It was during the evening, after a long, magical day of exploring the property, that we heard a gentle knock at our door. A kind lady from the hotel staff greeted us with a warm smile and asked if we needed anything—perhaps some extra water or an extra blanket for the night. As she noticed Samuel, her eyes softened, and she disappeared for a moment, only to return with a beautifully illustrated children’s booklet.
“Would you like a bedtime story for the baby?” she asked, her voice as gentle as the evening itself. It was such a small gesture, but it felt incredibly personal and thoughtful, like we were staying in a relative's home rather than a hotel. It was one of those sweet, unexpected moments that made us feel seen and cared for, a memory we will cherish long after our trip.
Worthy Trip from Paris
For anyone planning a trip to Paris, consider staying in Versailles for a few nights. It’s a fantastic option that allows you to be among the first to explore the Palace of Versailles, avoiding the typical crowds. The town itself is like a mini version of Paris—equally charming and beautiful but far more relaxed and less congested. We thoroughly enjoyed wandering the quaint streets, popping into delightful little cafés, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It was the perfect escape from the busy city, allowing us to savor every moment and truly connect with our surroundings.
Our stay at the Waldorf Astoria Versailles was a blend of luxury, history, and warm hospitality. It offered the perfect base to explore the charm of Versailles and an easy retreat from the bustle of Paris. We’re already planning our next visit, especially to try their legendary lobster roll. If you get there before we do, I’d love to hear about your experience!
Travel Tips:
- Reserve Dinner Early: The hotel’s restaurants can get booked quickly, so make your dinner reservations as soon as you arrive.
- Don’t Miss Breakfast: The Veranda Restaurant serves a delightful breakfast that’s well worth indulging in.
- Plan Ahead for the Palace of Versailles: Book your tickets online well in advance to ensure a spot. The Palace of Versailles is one of the most visited attractions in France, so arriving early is key. Aim to get there right when it opens (typically at 9 AM). This way, you can enjoy the main rooms, like the Hall of Mirrors, before they get packed with visitors. Also, remember that the palace is closed on Mondays! When exploring the gardens of Versailles, consider renting a golf cart for a comprehensive tour or hop on the charming little train—it’s both fun and affordable.
- Getting There Made Easy: Taking the train (RER C line) from Paris is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to reach Versailles. However, these trains can get very busy, especially during peak times. Consider taking an early train to avoid the rush, or opt for a slightly later train after the morning rush hour has passed.
- We took an Uber since it was more convenient for us traveling with a toddler and luggage but slightly pricier than the train; check the prices and plan based on your preferences.
- Use the Palace's Secondary Entrances: Many visitors flock to the main entrance at the front of the palace. However, there are secondary entrances, such as the Queen’s Gate entrance (Porte de la Reine), which are often less crowded. This can be a great way to bypass the crowds and get inside more quickly.
- Explore the Trianon Palaces and the Hamlet in the Afternoon: The Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet are lesser-known parts of the estate and tend to be quieter, especially in the afternoon. After visiting the main palace in the morning, spend the rest of your day exploring these hidden gems at a leisurely pace.
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