Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a royal enclave

 

A residential town popular for the peaceful environment it provides and its proximity to Paris (just 30 minutes by RER train), this former royal city is a delightful enclave where the living is good. Surrounded by a 3,500-hectare (8,650-acre) forest, the historic town centre offers a vibrant lifestyle thanks to its many restaurants and hotels, shops and high-end boutiques. As a medium-sized town (40,000 inhabitants), it is also one of the most appealing in the outer suburbs and is particularly popular with families owing to its prestigious schools, including an international secondary school, and its grandes écoles.

The real estate market

The market is dynamic and has grown by 42% in 5 years, with the average price now €7,500 per sq.m. Prices in the most sought-after parts of the centre, close to RER line A and the château, namely Plateau, Alsace, Ursulines and Place du Marché, can reach up to €14,000 per sq.m in the case of new developments.

Recommandations

Of the 7 neighbourhoods that make up Saint-Germain-en-Laye, the town centre is the best bet for historical heritage, represented by beautiful private mansions and old buildings, as well as cultural life and proximity to the park, shops and schools, while the smart, well-off Alsace-Pereire neighbourhood is popular for its old buildings and beautiful millstone houses. The areas surrounding the Lycée International-Fourqueux school, meanwhile, are sought after for their airy residential spaces and peaceful environment.

Inside tip

In this very high-pressure market, we put a lot of properties on the market very discreetly and without advertising them. Please get in touch with us to discuss your needs. - Bénédicte PETITCOL, Director BARNES Yvelines

Art of living

With plenty of heritage to discover, walks to enjoy out in the fresh air and grand tastings to sample, there’s something decidedly regal about Saint-Germain-en-Laye!

Culture and attractions

Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye

@Facebook Musée d'Archéologie nationale et Domaine national de Saint-Germain-en-Laye

The majestic jewel in the town’s crown is as much a sight for eyes from the outside, with André Le Nôtre’s gardens and the English garden, as from its maze-like interior, which houses the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale de Saint-Germain-en-Laye museum of archaeology.

Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Musée Maurice Denis

@Facebook Musée Départemental Maurice Denis

The Musée Départemental, a magnificent building dating from the late-17th century and listed as a historical monument, pays tribute to the most beautiful artistic muses with an exhibition entitled Femmes! (‘Women!’), featuring the work of Maurice Denis (1870-1943), who was once a guest at this enchanting property.

From 10 September 2022 to 2 July 2023. 2 bis, Rue Maurice Denis, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Horse riding

Epona Club Nature offers pony riding, Icelandic horse riding and even horse-drawn carriage rides: an alternative and somewhat regal way for visitors to discover the beautiful national estate.

www.epona-club.fr

Shopping

Fromagerie Fouchet

@Facebook Fromagerie Foucher St Germain en Laye

Foodies and cheese-lovers must be sure to stop by this traditional shop, which also happens to be a listed building.

16 Rue de Poissy, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Oak Interior Design

@Facebook OAK Interior Design

When it comes to furnishing your new Saint-Germain pad, you need look no further than this high-end decor shop offering a cutting-edge selection of pieces including Nemo lighting solutions and furniture by Gervasoni and Desalto.

27 Rue du Vieil Abreuvoir, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

The Barber Company

@Facebook The Barber Company

Head for this trendy barbershop if you want to leave looking a million dollars.

10, rue de la Salle, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

The hottest reservations in town

Brasserie du Théâtre

@Facebook Brasserie du Théâtre

This Saint-Germain-en-Laye institution is a typical Parisian brasserie boasting a unique view of the château and offering wonderful seafood platters including marinated gambas and guacamole served in a glass, as well as grilled whole sea bass.

19 Rue de la Salle, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Cazaudehore

@Facebook Cazaudehore, naturellement délicieux, depuis 1928

Housed within a charming hotel at the heart of the forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, this sophisticated restaurant is enveloped in a cosy, friendly atmosphere. The menu, meanwhile, comprises dishes such as pheasant confit and pan-fried scallops, not forgetting a Sunday brunch.

1 Av. du Président John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

La Table de la Maison du Val

@Facebook Maison du Val, Les Maisons de Campagne

This country house-hotel housed in Louis XIV’s former hunting lodge is rounded off by an extremely smart yet timeless restaurant serving fresh, nutritious cuisine— perfect for a break away from it all!

Route Forestière des Brancas, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

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