Châteaux and Crêpes

Our excursion took us to the glorious Palace of Versailles, the finest example of 18th-century architecture.

This palace began as the Louis XIII's hunting lodge. However, it was his son Louis XIV, who transformed and expanded the site, even moving the court of the government of France there in 1692.

Each of the three French Kings who lived there until the French Revolution added improvements to make it more beautiful and more opulent.

Exquisite oil paintings adorned every corner of the palace, with awe-inspiring masterpieces gracing even the lofty ceilings, leaving us to marvel at the extraordinary skill (especially painting on a ceiling) and dedication required for their creation.

Every cornice, ceiling and door of the interior features exquisite adornments, including frescoes, marble, gilt and woodcarvings.

The Hall of Mirrors is particularly stunning, stretching almost 250 long with 17 huge mirrors on one side and 17 windows overlooking endless gardens on the other.

As we departed the grand gates of Versailles, we carried with us not just memories of opulent halls and manicured gardens, but a profound appreciation for the artistry, history, and sheer ambition that shaped this magnificent palace.

True to French tradition, we indulged in delectable crêpes for lunch. Our wanderings led us to Crêperie La Place, an ideal spot for authentic French crêpes and a delightful midday meal. Jeff savored "The Cowboy" while I relished the "Tex-Mex" - both dishes proved excellent, complemented by French wine and impeccable service. The restaurant buzzed with a diverse crowd of international travelers, drawn by the Olympics and the allure of Versailles.

We savored the delectable dessert "Le Caramelle" quickly before it was time to board our coach for the long journey back to Le Havre, France.