Imagine a tranquil haven amidst the bustling city of Paris. This is the promise of Le Chalet des Iles, a charming Swiss chalet transformed into a restaurant on one of the two islands nestled in the serene lower lake of the Bois de Boulogne. Forget the city’s cacophony and step into a world of idyllic beauty, where nature’s gentle embrace meets refined French cuisine and a chic, relaxed ambiance.
A Tale of Emperors, Empresses, and a Chalet’s Journey
The history of this hidden gem is as captivating as its setting. In the mid-19th century, Empress Eugénie, during a visit to Switzerland, fell head over heels for a picturesque chalet in Bern. This infatuation sparked an unusual request from the Empress to her husband, Emperor Napoléon III. The Emperor, in his devotion, decided to bestow this chalet upon his beloved Empress.
To fulfill this royal whim, the chalet was meticulously dismantled, transported piece by piece from Switzerland to Paris, and reassembled in the Bois de Boulogne. This remarkable feat, a testament to the Emperor’s love, gave birth to Le Chalet des Iles, also known as Chalet Suisse.
From Belle Epoque Literary Haven to Modern Culinary Oasis
Inaugurated in 1880, the Chalet swiftly became a magnet for Paris’s elite. During the Belle Epoque, it flourished as a favorite literary café, attracting renowned authors like Marcel Proust and Emile Zola, who reveled in its tranquil atmosphere. Proust’s literary masterpiece, “In Search of Lost Time,” even features a mention of this iconic Parisian establishment.
A Serene Island Retreat
Nestled within the 11-hectare Lac Inférieur, or Grand Lac, the two islands are connected by a charming bridge and accessible by a free boat shuttle service. The lake itself is a product of the Bois de Boulogne’s major development project undertaken by Baron Haussmann in 1854.
Le Chalet des Iles: A Culinary Destination
Today, Le Chalet des Iles serves as a fine restaurant and a sought-after venue for private events. Its elegant design, steeped in history, and its peaceful surroundings create the perfect atmosphere for a romantic evening or a leisurely weekend brunch.
Enjoy the ambiance of the terrace overlooking the lake, relax in the garden, or soak up the views from the balcony during the summer months. In the winter, warm yourself by the crackling fireplace, ensconced in comfortable armchairs.
Le Chalet des Iles offers a delightful menu featuring classic French cuisine with a touch of exotic flair. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available. Their brunch is a culinary delight, featuring a lavish buffet crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Price-wise, expect to pay around €15 for appetizers, €30 for main courses, and €12 for desserts. The weekday lunch menu (starter-main course or main course-dessert) is €26, while the brunch is approximately €60. A glass of wine to complement your meal or a leisurely drink at the bar will cost around €8.
A Tranquil Stroll Through Parisian Nature
Before or after your meal, explore the peaceful islands, taking in the beauty of the lake, the verdant trees, colorful flowers, and graceful swans. Here, it’s easy to forget you’re still in the heart of bustling Paris.
Don’t miss the romantic statue by Swedish sculptor Gudmar Olovson, situated on the northern tip of the larger island. This evocative sculpture symbolizes the harmonious union of Man, Nature, and Love.
A Perfect Parisian Day
Combine your visit to Le Chalet des Iles and the Bois de Boulogne with a trip to the Musée Marmottan Monet, a short distance from the Chalet, for a truly unforgettable Parisian day.
Evening Cocktails and Parisian Charm
After a delectable dinner, linger in the bar facing the lake, enjoying a relaxing aperitif or a nightcap. Savor the music, the soothing atmosphere, and delicious cocktails.
Reaching Your Parisian Haven
To reach Le Chalet des Iles by Métro, take Line 9 to La Muette and enjoy a 10-15 minute walk to the shuttle dock on the lakeshore in the Bois de Boulogne. Along the way, you’ll pass the Musée Marmottan Monet and a monument commemorating the first untethered hot-air balloon flight, which took place in the Bois de Boulogne on November 21, 1783.
If you’re driving, car parking is available near the water shuttle dock.
Le Chalet des Iles: A Year-Round Parisian Escape
Le Chalet des Iles offers lunch (12 noon to 3 pm) and dinner (7:30 pm to 10:30 pm) daily during the summer. Remember to book in advance for the best experience. In winter, the restaurant is closed on Sunday evenings, Mondays, and Tuesdays, and is closed for two weeks during the Christmas and New Year period.
Embrace the magic of Le Chalet des Iles, where Parisian elegance meets natural serenity, for an unforgettable culinary and cultural experience.
