Chantilly

Chantilly is a Commune of the Oise department situated about 24 miles North East of Paris. Because of this around 40 percent of the permanent residents are commuters. Surrounded by forest, Chantilly is most famous as a horse racing centre and of course for its chateau. The best places to stay in Chantilly provide the perfect base for exploring this smartest of areas.

Chantilly is the largest race horse training community in France. It 's home to 100 stables and over 2,600 horses. The main course hosts the prestigious Prix du Jockey Club and the Prix de Diane, though there are 25 meets every year which are very popular.

As you'd imagine matters equine are the major theme in Chantilly - this began in the nineteenth century when the area became a playground for artists and aristocrats and with these came the English horse racing set. 1834 saw the first race and with the arrival of the train and station in 1859, Chantilly was attracting 20,000 racegoers daily.

An economy grew around horses and thrives to this day. There is the Living Museum of the horse and The Great Stables - a magnificent 186 metre long building with a 38 metre high dome which is home to 280 horses and 500 dogs.

But Chantilly is not just for horsey folk. You can visit the lovely Chateau de Chantilly and the Musee Conde, which houses the oldest collection of historic art in France and is only surpassed by the Louvre. Plus there's Chantilly forest - part of the Parc Naturel, and the town is also renowned for its cream and lace.

Being so close to Paris, Chantilly is easily accessible by train (Gare du Nord), car or plane.

If you're planning a visit when one of the major races are on, you'll need to be organised. The best places to stay in Chantilly will be booked up months in advance!

For five star Chateau elegance

• Auberge du Jeu de Paume is a deluxe five star hotel featuring sumptuous accommodation, Michelin starred dining, spoiling spa, and vast stables on site for keen equestrians! This is a great country escape for the ultimate romantic break.

Nothing here that fits the bill? Browse our pick of the best places to stay in Chantilly, expand your search to include all our Paris hotels, or contact a friendly guru for advice.