Built in Versailles near the palace between 1678 and 1683 at the behest of Louis XIV, the Potager du Roi is a unique example of a French kitchen garden from the Baroque era. Its purpose was to supply the King’s table with fruit and vegetables and to showcase French agricultural expertise. Since the 17th century, the art of pruning and training fruit trees into espalier or half-espalier forms has been practised and passed down here. Today, the seventeen gardeners cultivate vegetables, herbs and nearly 4,000 fruit trees. The mission to “nourish and innovate”, entrusted to Jean-Baptiste de La Quintinie, director of Louis XIV’s orchards and kitchen gardens, is more relevant than ever.
Book your tickets now and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Potager du Roi!
Further information
Prices
Full price: €13 /
Reduced rate: €10 (entry + guided tour)
Opening times
Sundays 3, 10, 17, 24 May, 14, 21 June, 5, 12, 19 July, 27 September, 11 and 18 October from 3.30 pm to 5 pm
Access
By public transport
RER C from Invalides: Versailles Château Rive Gauche, then a 10-minute walk
Line N from Paris-Montparnasse: Versailles Chantiers, then a 15-minute walk
Line L from Paris-Saint-Lazare: Versailles - Rive Droite, then a 30-minute walk or take bus route 6203
Travelling by car
Saint-Louis Cathedral car park
Car park at the École nationale supérieure de paysage (weekends only and subject to availability): flat rate of €3 per day (please go to the shop reception)
In accordance with the Vigipirate security plan, no bags or luggage may be left at the shop reception.
