A Place for Strolling and Relaxation
“Follies”, or ornamental garden structures, are picturesque constructions placed within the carefully composed scenery of a landscaped garden. Originally, the term “folly” was used in painting to refer to buildings or structures used to embellish landscape scenes. Under the influence of English garden theorists, garden designers were encouraged to work in the manner of painters, leading to the introduction of such structures into parks and gardens.
In the 19th century, this fashion spread throughout France, and the Yerres Valley became dotted with these picturesque structures. Even the simplest agricultural buildings were given decorative features, combining practicality with aesthetic appeal. The estate itself contains numerous ornamental garden structures, together forming a unique example of the Romantic approach to landscape design in the early 19th century.
The Kitchen Garden
Founded in 2000 and supported by the Town of Yerres, the “Potager Caillebotte” association maintains and brings to life the Maison Caillebotte’s historic 19th-century kitchen garden, with a focus on cultural and educational activities.
Since 2011, the kitchen garden has covered an area of 1,700 m², one third of its original size. The water pump, greenhouse, small pond and glass cloches evoke the world of Impressionist painter Gustave Caillebotte and the subjects depicted in his paintings.
This flower-filled kitchen garden features a wide variety of heritage vegetables, aromatic and medicinal plants, a heritage orchard and a collection of dahlias, flowers particularly cherished by the painter. The kitchen garden is a member of the Association des Jardins Potagers et Fruitiers de France and the Association des Croqueurs de Pommes.
In this educational garden, around twenty volunteer gardeners learn and cultivate with curiosity while respecting biodiversity. The produce is shared among the gardeners.
As every year, a new theme takes centre stage. In 2026, cucurbits are in the spotlight!
Visiting Hours
From January 17 to March 29, 2026
Kitchen garden visits on Saturdays and Sundays at 3:00 p.m.
From April 4 to October 25, 2026
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday: 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The Ice House
Located beneath the Kiosk, the 7-metre-deep Ice House was used to store ice and preserve food. Its entrance is framed by millstone rockwork designed to resemble a grotto. A footbridge leads visitors into the heart of the Ice House.
Visiting Hours
From October 1 to March 31
Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
From April 1 to September 30
Saturday and Sunday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
