Pierrefonds_chateau ©CRTC Hauts-de-France_Hervé HUGHES

Visit Pierrefonds

A historical escape

Don your knight’s armour and embark upon a quest in search of hidden treasures in the Château de Pierrefonds. Immerse yourself in this magical and grandiose medieval setting that was entirely restored by prominent architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, who was also responsible for the restoration of Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris. Just a stone throw’s away lies Pierrefonds lake, a haven of peace swathed in lilies that is great for a relaxing family day out or a romantic boat ride with your other half. Lastly, the spellbinding Forest of Compiègne populated by giant oak and beech trees provides the idyllic environment for unwinding and disconnecting.

Getting there

Northern France _Pierrefonds_ Château de Pierrefonds © Centre des Monuments Nationaux - Christian Gluckman

In the words of Viollet-le-Duc…

To restore a building is not to maintain it, repair it or remake it: it is to re-establish it in a complete state which may never have existed at any given moment.

Viollet-le-Duc, architect who restored the castle in the 19th century

4 experiences to whet your appetite

Pierrefonds_Vue aérienne sur l'étang et le château©CRTC Hauts-de-France_Nicolas Bryant

The peace and quiet of a whimsical village

Treat yourself to a calm and secluded break away from the hustle and bustle in the quaint village of Pierrefonds, a former spa town permeated by a sense of nostalgia. While it may be most famous for its castle, a stroll through its narrow streets will reveal some of its more well-guarded secrets, such as the fairytale creatures that adorn the façades. They are uncannily similar to those found on the château. Round your trip off with a ride out on the lake against the backdrop of the majestic castle. An amazing feeling you won’t forget in a hurry!

Visit Pierrefonds

Compiègne _ Forêt de Compiègne © CRTC Hauts-de-France – Comdesimages.com

Forest of Compiègne, unparalleled rejuvenation

Roam through the Forest of Compiègne and get your fill of fresh air purified by the towering oak, beech and pine trees. The giant residents, some dating back to the 16th century, are so old that they will have witnessed the capture of Joan of Arc and the signing of the Armistice. Take a moment to stroke the tree that calls out to you most and feel the connection between skin and bark. The bond is highly beneficial for your well-being and will help you re-energise.

La-Chaussée-Tirancourt_Parc Samara_Accorbranche © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Guillaume Crochez

Get the adrenaline flowing at the Saint-Pierre de Trivisy adventure park

Treat your budding Tarzans to some high-flying fun at this tree-top adventure park where they can test their balance with nets to catch their fall. Specific routes have been created for children of all ages and the night-time run gives you a chance to explore the forest under the starry sky, cheered on by hooting owls. A fun experience for the entire family.

Northern France _Pierrefonds_ Château de Pierrefonds © CRTC Hauts-de-France - Stéphane Tatinclaux

The fairy tale Château de Pierrefonds

Nearly all of us have dreamt of living in a chateau and the stunning castle in Pierrefonds in the Oise is a classic example. Chateau de Pierrefonds has everything you’d expect in a magical kingdom, from a drawbridge, battlements and dungeons to towers and turrets…