Happy TravellerWelcome to Houilles, a charming commune located in the Yvelines department in the Île-de-France region of north-central France. This northwestern suburb of Paris is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Join us as we explore the many treasures of Houilles and discover why this enchanting destination should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Houilles has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Victor Schœlcher, a French abolitionist writer and the main spokesman for a group from Paris who worked for the abolition of slavery, died in Houilles on 25 December 1893. A nursery school, a street, and a statue carry his name, and the house in which he died in 1893 is at 26 Avenue Schœlcher. The commune of Houilles acquired the house in 2011. Until 2000, the command post of the French Navy’s Ballistic Missile Submarine Force was based at Houilles.
Houilles is a commuter town that is well-connected to Paris and other nearby destinations. The town is served by Houilles–Carrières-sur-Seine station on Paris RER line A and on the Transilien Paris-Saint-Lazare suburban rail line. This makes it easy for visitors to explore the many attractions in the region, including the Palace of Versailles, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum.
Houilles is also home to a number of excellent schools, including fifteen preschool and elementary schools and three junior high schools. Nearby senior high schools/sixth form colleges include Lycée Les-Pierres-Vives (Carrières-sur-Seine), Lycée Jules-Verne (Sartrouville), and Lycée Évariste-Galois (Sartrouville).
In addition to its rich history and excellent transport links, Houilles is also known for its international relations. The town is twinned with Celorico de Basto, Portugal; Chesham, England, United Kingdom; Friedrichsdorf, Germany; and Schœlcher, Martinique, France. This makes it a great destination for travelers who are interested in learning about different cultures and meeting new people.
Overall, Houilles is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s rich history, enjoying its excellent transport links, or meeting new people from around the world, there’s something for everyone in Houilles. So why not add this charming commune to your travel itinerary and discover all that it has to offer?
