Is it possible to step back in time while remaining just thirty minutes from Paris? At Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard it certainly is. This magnificent architectural ensemble has retained all the charm, spirit and elegance of its 17th-century origins.
Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard is a village of about 450 inhabitants. It is located twenty-five kilometers southwest of Paris. The domain is known locally for its plant festivals in the spring and autumn. Its inhabitants are called Belliregardinois.
The chateau at Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard was built between 1610 and 1760. It is classified as a historical monument. The park boasts various features. These include an orangery and a pigeonnier with 4500 nesting boxes. Also notable are an icehouse and a two-hectare flower garden. It is styled after the king’s vegetable garden at Versailles. Flowers and vegetables grow together.
The flower garden is entirely enclosed by walls. It is typical of 17th-century kitchen gardens. The flower garden at Saint-Jean de Beauregard is one of the few chateau gardens to have survived. It covers two hectares. It allowed the dozens of people living in the chateau to be self-sufficient. The garden combines flowers, fruits and rare or forgotten vegetables. These grow in magnificent and constantly renewed compositions. The paths radiate from the central basin. Here you can discover the grape greenhouses. You can also see the fruit trees. There is also a chamber for conserving grapes. It uses the system in place in Thomery.
Since 1984 Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard has hosted one of France’s most important horticultural events. Muriel de Curel created the plant festival. Garden enthusiasts from all countries now recognize it. European nurserymen attend the April and September events. They keep abreast of trends and discover rare plants.
Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard hosts several unmissable family events. These include the Spring Plant Festival and the Autumn Plant Festival. There is also an Easter egg hunt. Another event is the festival of creation and crafts.
Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard offers many activities in addition to the domain visit. A rich cultural program complements these. From spring to early autumn the chateau, park and flower garden are open.
The domain and chateau of Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard offer an authentic setting. They are perfect for any exceptional event.