We came to France in early June this year because there were a number of family birthdays to celebrate and a special milestone day for one of my grandsons that my wife and I were looking forward to attending. On a day that looked like it might not bring fair weather, I decided to take a chance and traveled solo to the place pictured above.
Château de Chantilly is only a short train ride out of Paris. It was built by Prince Henri d’Orléans, the son of the last King of France, Louis-Philippe. It is one of the best Châteaus in all of France and because Henri had no heirs, he decided to gift it to the Institut de France in 1886. He gave it under the condition that his substantial collection of paintings and other collectables remain in the location that he had placed them in his lifetime. In addition to the Château there is an impressive stable complex where if you arrive at the right time you can watch an equestrian show that would please the Prince. It would probably have impressed me too, if I hadn’t arrived just as the show was ending. In that area they also have a Museum of the Horse that I was able to see. If you would like to see photos from the day click here.