A Palace to Honor the King’s Horses

The Great Stables, located in the Domaine de Chantilly, near Paris, look like they came right out of a fairytale. This 18th century masterpiece of architecture is a palace to honor horses. This exquisite backdrop of manicured gardens and priceless artwork is home to the largest stable in all of Europe. The Great Stables has many beloved equestrian shows during the year, showing off their haute-école (advanced components in classical dressage) training, which has been a factor in their international notoriety for over 30 years.

Shows and Training Demonstrations

You’ll be transported into another world, while watching one of the many original horse demonstrations under the 28 metre high dome of the Great Stables. A combination of poetry, acrobatics, humour, and technical skills lead to a one of a kind experience. You’ll experience magic with 600 other people in the stands, and uncover new equestrian secrets of the Great Stable riders.

An All Female Equestrian Company

The team of highly skilled equestrians that perform at The Equestrian Company at Chantilly are all female. The three shows performed each year are written and directed by the sister duo Sophie and Virginie Bienaimé. They incorporate complex traditional French riding techniques, acrobatics, music, theatre, and circus all in one show stopping performance.

Museum of the Horse

The Great Stables are home to the Museum of the Horse, which chronicles the relationship between man and horse since the beginning of civilization. Walk through the 15 rooms in the castle devoted to telling the story of the important role horses play in human life. There is truly something for everyone, with both horse art, science, ethology and ancient objects to enrich the understanding of horse history.

Gallery

Location

Car

· From Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport: A1 and D924a motorway (25 min.) · From Paris: A3 and/or A1 motorways exit "Chantilly" or D316 and D317 (40 km from Paris centre) · From Lille and Brussels: A1 motorway exit "Senlis" · From Beauvais Airport: National Road 31 (40 min.) Paid parking: Parking available near the Castle (P1) and the Great Stables (P2): 5.- Euros.

Train

From Gare du Nord SNCF TER main line (25 minutes) get off at the “Chantilly-Gouvieux” stop or RER line D (45 minutes), get off at the “Chantilly-Gouvieux” stop.

Food & Drink

Les Écuries café (Cafe)

Les Écuries café, has a resolutely modern decor and is open all year long, serving several set menus.