Learn about the French Department Yvelines

Yvelines sits to the west of Paris and is a popular residential area for those commuting into the capital. The main cities in this department which is within the region of Île-de-France, include Versailles, Mantes-la-Jolie, Saint-Germain-en-Laye and Rambouillet. There is plenty of green space thanks to the expansive Forest of Rambouillet which stretches across nearly 30,000 hectares and is the second largest protected forest in France. The forest is a popular destination for walking, cycling and other outdoor activities such as high tech geocaching treasure hunts.  Yvelines is also home to one of France’s best known golf courses, La Tuilerie-Bignon, which is in the desirable village of Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche. The historic course was established in the 1950s and for the past 34 years it has been home to the prestigious Lancôme Trophy. La Tuilerie-Bignon has hosted the French Open three times, in 1965, 1969 and 1984.

There are two popular regional parks in Yvelines, the Park of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse and part of the Park of Vexin Français, and many medieval villages, castles and churches to explore.

To the north of Yvelines is the picturesque department of Val-d'Oise whilst that of Hauts-de-Seine, which comprises some of the western suburbs of Paris, lies to the east. Yvelines also borders Essonne, Eure-et-Loir and Eure.

The city of Versailles has helped to put Yvelines on the tourist map. Thousands of visitors flock here every year to see the 17^th century Palace of Versailles, marvel at its stunning architecture, learn more about its fascinating history and explore some of its 2,300 rooms.

For those looking to move to Yvelines, Versailles is a sought after residential location which offers the chance to live close to Paris but within easy reach of surrounding countryside. Property prices here hold their value and investors will find that buying here will generate high rental incomes.

Other locations to consider moving to are the lively and pretty city of St Germain en Laye and Le Vesinet, both of which are popular with expats and are well known for having excellent nurseries and schools.

Not found you are looking for?  Or perharps you are looking in a specific location? If so why not tell us about your plans and requirements so we can help you find your own dream house in the Yvelenes.