Discover Southern Europe | France’s most ravishing châteaux
that for almost a century and a half, the château had been passed down from mother to daughter – which is rare considering women weren’t supposed to own property,” Daphné explains. Even today, Daphne, her grandmother and mother are now upholding the legacy of what her grandfather brought to their family. And visitors need only wander the corridors to notice the many original paintings – all of which honour their female subjects.
A picture-perfect property Capturing incredible photography has been at the heart of the Château de Lésigny for a long time already. In fact, visitors might recognise it as the film location of the popular Canal+ and BBC series Versailles, among others. With a large lake, a forest cabin, dove tower, dungeons, winding walkways and quaint farmhouses, “producers can endlessly explore their creativity,” explains Daphné. “When my grandfather purchased the property in 1984, the furniture had already been sold to auction, which made it the perfect shell for filming. He made some structural changes to create a studio space, and enlarged the
reception hall,” explains Daphné. As a result, the largest of its three interior spaces can accommodate up to 300 people – whether for a film crew or a dreamlike reception.
ous Disney Princess-themed ceremonies, for example!” she reveals.
An architectural expression of love
Daphné, who is originally from California, is passionate about engaging with local businesses. Wherever possible, she therefore works with photographers, catering companies and florists from the nearby villages, and also with the mayor to host public events. “There is a budding community which we really try to embrace,” she explains. Located just 30 minutes from the centre of Paris, the château provides the ideal rural escape. Visitors can easily access the French capital and its two main airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, in just under an hour, and guests can arrange accommodation options just a short distance away.
Comprising 54 hectares of land and forest, this majestic château is the perfect place to immortalise that special moment. From the moat that crowns it, to the fine details etched into its walls, guests will go home with unforgettable memories created in a place of deep reaching heritage. “The beauty of the château provides a deep and emotional experience for its guests, and makes their dreams reality. In fact, the Château de Lésigny is the definition of a fairytale venue that perfectly complements its neighbouring Disneyland Paris. With so much room to play around with, the château serves as a versatile location for both filming and weddings. “We provide an American-style customer service to our guests. We help them plan, but don’t impose much,” explains Daphné. Reckert and her staff aim to cater to their guests’ wishes with the utmost ease, and have hosted all sorts of weddings across various religions and backgrounds. “We’ve hosted numer-
A château at the heart of the community
For more information on the services available for your special occasion, visit their website or get in touch. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook, for updates on their public events. www.chateaulesigny.fr Facebook: chateaudelesigny Instagram: @chateaudelesigny
Issue 10 | December 2019 | 29