Vaux-Le-Pénil offers several distinct ways to enjoy a stay: the history of the Château, the banks of the Seine, green spaces for walks, and cultural activities in a converted farmhouse. Rather than combining these into a single itinerary, you can make your choice based on whether you want to focus on historical landmarks, time outdoors, or music and other cultural activities.
The Château and ecclesiastical history
The Château de Vaux-le-Pénil was built in 1766 by Michel Louis Fréteau de Saint Just. Today, it preserves a valuable collection of autographs and historical documents relating to events that took place there over the course of a millennium. The Château is also listed in the inventory of historic monuments. Its year of construction, builder, collection and protected status give the site a clear historical focus.
The Église Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul offers an older point of historical reference. It is mentioned in 1080 by Richard, the Archbishop of Sens, and is said to have originally been built as a chapel for the Château. Thus, an early mention and a possible connection to the Château sit side by side.
The Seine riverbanks and time outdoors
The Promenade de Vaux runs along the banks of the Seine and offers views of the Château de Vaux-le-Pénil. It thus connects the river landscape with a view of the historic building. For those who want to discover the area through more than its architectural history, it offers a scenic perspective.
La Buissonnière offers another way to spend time outdoors. Its extensive green spaces are suitable for walks; the sports and leisure centre includes a children’s play area, basketball and football facilities, and an outdoor fitness area. Unlike the riverside promenade with its views of the Château, this is where specific play and sports facilities sit alongside walks in green surroundings.
Culture, music and the library
The development of La Ferme des Jeux began in 1995 with the conversion of an old Brie farmhouse into a cultural and community centre. The Petit Théâtre at La Ferme des Jeux offers a music programme with acoustic concerts, including events for young audiences. This cultural programme adds music and events for different age groups to the area’s historical attractions.
The L'Arcature library offers thousands of books for borrowing and consultation. It also has study areas for secondary school pupils and students, as well as tablets and e-readers. If you plan to use the library, check the latest access details before your visit.
Getting to La Buissonnière
From Gare de Melun, you can reach the La Buissonnière sports and leisure centre on Transdev bus line 3607 towards Vaux-le-Pénil. Get off at the “Grouette” stop in Vaux-le-Pénil. Check the timetable before setting out so you can factor the service into your plans.
Discover more destinations: Bannost-Villegagnon, Saint-Fargeau-Ponthierry, Tancrou, Marolles-sur-Seine, Isles-Lès-Villenoy, Saint-Augustin, Nanteuil-Lès-Meaux, Fontenay-Trésigny.
For the regional travel overview: Seine-Et-Marne.
