History
Now located in this lush paradise, Le Chalet des Iles is an authentic Swiss chalet given by Napoleon III to his wife, the Empress Eugenia, in the middle of the 19th century.
Dismantled and transported by train, it was rebuilt on the Ile du Lac Inférieur which was created during the redevelopment of the Bois de Boulogne. The flowers, century-old trees and the little boat that transports visitors to the bank in a few seconds gives this place an unequalled charm.
Highly fashionable during the Second Empire, it became a literary salon which was frequented by Proust and Zola. Several years later, it was destroyed by fire but, rebuilt in its entirety and restored many times, it has retained its appeal throughout the years.
In 2001, Le Chalet des Iles was taken over and restored by Raphael de Montrémy who remodelled the building, adding a balcony and creating new reception areas. The decor, with its lovely central fireplace, carefully selected fabrics and filtered lighting creates an inviting atmosphere with a soul of its own. Very popular for its cosy atmosphere in the winter and the fresh air of its summer terrace, Le Chalet des Iles has become a stop that should not be missed.