Chantilly – la Crème de la Crème

Town of Princes, city of the Horse

Its easy to get to Chantilly from London by Eurostar with only a simple platform change at Paris Gare du Nord. The town has a long association with the English racing fraternity. But there’s more to this place than cream and gee-gees.
During the middle ages the Lords of Senlis built a castle that was subsequently transformed by the Duke of Condé. Chantilly is famous for the Chateau as well as horse racing and breeding. You can also enjoy the extensive Forest of Chantilly which offers the opportunity to explore the indigenous flora and fauna.
The Chateau is now the Condé museum and houses some very important works of art – it is considered the best collection in France outside the Louvre. You can compare the two with a day trip to Paris on the fast local train (journey time about 25 minutes). Next to the Chateau is the Grande Stable Block (now the Living Horse Musem). It is said that

the 7th Prince de Condé believed he would be reincarnated as a horse so he made sure the stable block he built was very comfortable! There is now a one-hour equestrian show held on the first Sunday of each month throughout the year. There is a famous fireworks show every two years (on even years) centred on the chateau and the gardens.
Hotels can arrange excursions to nearby Chaalis or Royaumont Abbeys or nearby Senlis.
We have chosen the 4 star Dolce Chantilly hotel set beside it’s own golf club, it has three restaurants, two bars, two swimming pools and a fitness centre. The rooms are modern and well appointed with views over the golf club or the forest. If you prefer a more traditional establishment the charming 3 star Chateau de la Tour is a short distance from the main town and station. This small chateau is set in 112 acres of beautiful parkland.

Departures
Daily throughout the year (except 25th December). Special rates are available before or after your holiday at the Novotel Euston, London.

Costs
Price per person based on 2 travelling, subject to availability range between
2nd class rail travel staying at the Hotel de la Tour £212 - £324
1st class rail travel staying at the the Dolce Hotel £367 - £659

What’s included
• Return rail travel from London (Ashford to 13 November, Ebbsfleet from 19 November) including seat reservations on Eurostar London – Paris – London (also a meal if travelling 1st class leisure select).
• 2 nights in a twin or double room including breakfast.
• Pickup from station by private transfer to Dolce hotel, for De la Tour the short taxi ride costs 5 –10 Euros and is payable locally.

Information
• Deposit £100 per person.