Urban exploration, or urbex , is attracting a growing number of enthusiasts eager to discover abandoned, mysterious, and often historically significant places. The Yvelines department, located in the Île-de-France region, offers a multitude of fascinating sites for urbex enthusiasts. This article presents five must-see urbex sites in the Yvelines, each with its own unique charm and atmosphere.
1: The Navarre Hospital in Évreux
The Navarre Hospital , although officially located in Évreux in the Eure department, is very close to the Yvelines department and is a popular urban exploration site. Abandoned for several years, this former psychiatric hospital offers a fascinating and sometimes unsettling setting for explorers.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Hospital buildings, treatment pavilions, labyrinthine corridors.
- State of disrepair: Cracked walls, collapsed ceilings, overgrown vegetation.
- Access: Relatively accessible, requires caution and respect for the site.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the dark atmosphere and architectural details.
- Exploration: Discover the traces of medical history and imagine the stories of former patients.
2: The Château de la Verrière
Château de la Verrière , located deep in the forest, is an iconic spot for urban exploration enthusiasts. Abandoned for several decades, this castle offers an atmosphere that is both romantic and mysterious.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Main castle, outbuildings, gardens overgrown with vegetation.
- State of disrepair: Roof partially collapsed, walls dilapidated.
- Access: Accessible with caution, beware of fragile structures.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Immortalizing ancient architecture and wild gardens.
- Exploration: Getting lost in the rooms of the castle and imagining its glorious past.
3: Triel-sur-Seine Station
The Triel-sur-Seine train station is a must-see urban exploration site for railway enthusiasts. Closed for many years, this station offers a picturesque and nostalgic setting for exploration.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Station building, abandoned platforms, railway tracks overgrown by nature.
- State of disrepair: Dilapidated buildings, omnipresent vegetation.
- Access: Relatively accessible, but beware of unstable structures.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing the abandoned railway atmosphere and architectural details.
- Exploration: Walk along the platforms and imagine the lively past of this station.
4: The Chatou Waterworks
The Chatou Waterworks , although partially restored, still offers abandoned areas to explore. This former industrial site, dedicated to water management, is a fascinating testament to the region's industrial history.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Industrial buildings, treatment basins, abandoned machinery.
- State of disrepair: Structures partially collapsed, equipment rusted.
- Access: Partially accessible, beware of industrial hazards.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Immortalizing industrial remains and historical machines.
- Exploration: Discover the secrets of water management and explore abandoned buildings.
5: The Fort of Cormeilles-en-Parisis
The Fort of Cormeilles-en-Parisis , although located on the border of the Yvelines department, is a must-see urban exploration site for military history enthusiasts. This fort, once used for the defense of Paris, is now partially abandoned and offers an impressive setting for exploration.
Site Features
- Infrastructure: Fortifications, casemates, underground passages.
- State of disrepair: Military structures well preserved, some areas collapsed.
- Access: Relatively accessible, requiring caution and respect for the site.
Why visit it?
- Photography: Capturing military architecture and panoramic views from the fortifications.
- Exploration: Explore the underground tunnels and discover the fort's military history.
Conclusion
The Yvelines region is brimming with fascinating urban exploration sites, ranging from abandoned castles to old factories and military forts. Each location offers a unique opportunity to delve into history and discover hidden treasures. By respecting safety rules and property rights, you can fully enjoy these explorations and capture unforgettable moments. Happy exploring!
