It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’re traveling internationally without even leaving Île-de-France. In Bougival, located in Yvelines, just 35 minutes from Paris, you’ll find a chalet that looks just like an authentic Russian Dacha, which dates back to the 19th century. It’s a unique spot that has served as a space for inspiration and creation for the writer Ivan Turgenev.
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An essential artistic and intellectual place in the 19th century
To find this Datcha, you need to head to the back of Villa Viardot. This lovely building, designed in the neo-Palladian style, was built in 1830. Starting in 1874, it became the home of the singer Pauline Viardot and the Russian-born writer Ivan Turgenev, who lived there together, though they weren’t a couple; Pauline was married to Louis Viardot, a well-known art critic. Pretty soon, the Villa became famous as a gathering place for many artists and intellectuals.
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Frédéric Chopin, Georges Bizet, Richard Wagner, Gustave Flaubert, and Claude Debussy are among the personalities who frequently visited the Villa Viardot, making this place the epicenter of artistic vibrancy during that time. The Datcha was built in 1875, just a year after their arrival. It's here, in particular, that he wrote.
A venue open for visits every month
Since 2023, after several years of renovations, the Villa Viardot has reopened its doors to the public, but only during cultural events such as Heritage Days or local gatherings. As for the Datcha of Ivan Turgenev, it has become a house .on-musée, you can visit it on the first and third Saturdays of each month from March to October. Inside, you’ll discover rooms that are frozen in time, featuring personal belongings, a writing desk, and even a pianoforte. It’s a true artistic immersion that you absolutely shouldn't miss !
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Datcha Tourgueniev
16, Ivan Tourgueneff Street — 78380, Bougival
On the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month
From March 29 to October 25, 2025
Price: 8 €, 5 € at a reduced rate
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