A getaway to the Domaine de Vizille
Posted by Céline BAUDIN on 06/30/2022 at 12:48
By Estelle / View all Grenoble Alpes Inspirations blog posts
The Domaine de Vizille is a must-see of the area. Comme here for an original, cultural experience in an unspoilt natural environment.
COME AND EXPLORE THE MAJESTIC DOMAINE DE VIZILLE
Just on the outskirts of Grenoble and the Oisans mountains, on the Route Napoléon, you'll be whisked away into the captivating atmosphere of the Château de Vizille and its 100-hectare landscaped grounds. This protected estate is a testament to the past and provides a refreshing change of scenery, where visitors can embrace both the wonderful history of manking and the superb natural environment !
Le château de Vizille
As soon as you arrive at the main square in Vizille (Place du Château), you'll be able to admire this architectural wonder, the Domaine de Vizille château.
Go through the huge wooden door, admire the towers, the main courtyard and the magnificent outdoor staircase. Today this estate houses the Musée de la Révolution Française .
Did you know ?
This 17th-century château is a classified Historic Monument, and former residence of the Dukes of Lesdiguières, the Pierier family (1782-1895) and was also a presidential residence from 1925 to 1960. In 1778, the Assembly of Vizille took place in the château's Jeu de Paume room, with the goal of convocation of an Estates-General (a form of national parliament). From then on, the Château de Vizille became known as the birthplace of the French Revolution.
Since 1983, it has housed the only Musée de la Révolution Française and an exceptional collection of artworks is on display here, a collection that is always evolving and expanding. Get a peek behind-the-scenes of this eventful period in the history of France, thanks to some artistic work from this time.
The landscaped grounds
Enjoy a stroll around this garden bearing the « Remarkable Garden » label, with a combination of different relaxing spaces. Wander along the water's edge and watch the ducks and swans splashing about. You might even catch a glimpse of a wild goose.
As a family, with friends or even as a couple, treat yourselves to a picnic on the grass, in the shade of an ancient tree.
A revitalising getaway for the whole family
Explore the estate and have fun at the same time ! Try out the orienteering trails (map available at the museum reception desk) and the online escape game on the free application, Graaly. The little ones will love the wooden games and if they're feeling inquisitive, there are informative tables providing information about the estate's wildlife. Litlle animal lovers will undoubtedly want to go on a pony ride around the grounds.
Venture along the footpaths and explore the various landscaped areas around this estate offering exceptional diversity. Near the entrance to the museum, there is a wonderful French-style garden and rose garden. On the other side of the grounds, walk through the animal park and watch the deer roaming around in semi-captivity. The little ones (and the adults too) will love this area !
And it's completety free !
The tour of the Musée de la Révolution and the grounds is free-of-charge for all !
It's easy to get to Vizille from Grenoble using public transport. Take lines 23, X03 or T75 from the bus station.
More information on public transport
Feeling peckish ?
Enjoy a gourmet experience at one of the many restaurants in Vizille. Brasserie-style establishments, fast-food or something more upmarket, there's something for everyone and to suit all budgets ! In the shade of the ancient trees in the grounds of the Domaine de Vizille, you'll find the Restaurant Le Floreal .
Take a souvenir of the Domaine back home with you
At the Domaine de Vizille shop, you'll find a large collection of items connected to the history of the estate, books for the whole family, local products and games.
Vizille : its castle, its history and the Park of course ! When one enters inside the domain, our look directly goes to this big water area. This green and calm little island that embellished with the arrival of spring is becoming more and more entertaining for children. Why ?
Reason n°1 :
As at the time of the first settlers of the domain, animals peopled the Park for the enjoyment of the youngest (and the oldest too). Walk with catlike stealth on the paths of deer, stags and other roes to hope to come closer. A little bit further, on the water area, do you recognize the savage gooses splashing around close to ducks and swans?
Reason n°2 :
Do you like to be a player? Come to the welcoming area at the entrance of the museum to pick up a map and throw yourself into a positioning route in the park while catching beacons! A playful way to discover the history and the heritage of the domain. When? This game is available every day from March to October and more over this is free.
Reason n°3 :
A new playground made of wood settled in the heart of the Park for the enjoyment of the youngest (from 3 to 12 years old), very close to the starting point of the Pony strolls during summer!
Push the castle’s doors to discover the Museum of the French revolution with its wealthy collections. Work of arts, and objects of the revolutionary time. The exile figures under the Revolution have currently the place of honor.
