Versailles: Path of the Heroes on original electrics 2 wheels

When it comes to exploring the historic sites of Versailles, most travelers immediately think of the Château and its sprawling gardens. But what if you could see a different side of the area—one packed with stories of WWI and WWII—while enjoying an active, fun ride on electric scooters? That’s exactly what the “Versailles: Path of the Heroes on Original Electrics 2 Wheels” tour offers. This half-day adventure is a fantastic way to combine culture, history, outdoor activity, and some light-hearted exploration—all in just about four hours.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guide, JB, who brings history to life with detailed stories and a friendly approach. Second, the electric scooters, which make covering approximately 18 miles effortless and fun, especially on smaller streets, cycle paths, and forest tracks. The tour’s focus on lesser-known WWII and WWI sites makes it a more meaningful experience for those wanting to deepen their understanding of France’s wartime past.

A possible consideration? The tour requires participants to know how to ride a bike and be comfortable on electric scooters, which might not suit everyone. Plus, since it’s limited to six travelers, it feels intimate but also requires some planning ahead. This tour suits history buffs, active travelers, and small groups seeking a unique, outdoor perspective on Versailles’s wartime story.

Key Points

• Unique Historical Focus: Explore WWI and WWII sites around Versailles, including memorials and lesser-known monuments.
• Active and Fun: Electric scooters allow you to cover a lot of ground comfortably while staying engaged with your surroundings.
• Expert Guide: JB’s detailed explanations and personal touch help make history memorable.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 6) mean personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Helmets, gloves, snacks, a GoPro, and walkie-talkies are provided for hassle-free fun.
• Ideal for Active Adults: The tour is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable on bikes or scooters.

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at a conveniently located spot in Versailles, with the meeting point easily accessible near public transportation options. Starting at 2:00 pm, the group is small (max six travelers), which enhances the experience with personalized attention. Before hitting the streets, you’ll be fitted with a helmet, gloves, and a Kway if necessary, setting you up for a smooth ride.

The Itinerary in Detail

Memorial de L’Escadrille La Fayette

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Memorial de L’Escadrille La Fayette, where the stories of American volunteer pilots fighting in WWI come alive. As Caryn_O notes in her review, the guide, JB, is extremely knowledgeable and takes extra care explaining each stop, making sure you understand the significance of this memorial. She mentions that seeing sites she wouldn’t have known about otherwise was a highlight, emphasizing the tour’s educational value.

Monuments Pershing and Lafayette

Next, you’ll ride along forest paths to reach the Monument Pershing-Lafayette, a striking tribute that faces the Château de Versailles. This monument commemorates both the American forces from WWI and the American Revolution. The short five-minute stop lets you take in the impressive views from the heights of Versailles and snap some photos—an opportunity well appreciated by reviewers.

Place d’Armes and the Hôtel des Gendarmes

A quick stop at the Place d’Armes takes you past the area where thousands of soldiers and horses gathered before heading to the front during WWI. The guide will paint a vivid picture of what that must have felt like. Nearby, the Hôtel des Gendarmes, which housed German troops during the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, offers another angle into the wartime history buried within the town.

Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace

A brief stop at this luxury hotel provides a glimpse into the palace’s political history, as Georges Clemenceau reportedly dictated the terms of the Treaty of Versailles here. It’s a quick but fascinating touchpoint for those interested in diplomacy and history.

War Memorials and the Town Hall

Your ride continues through the town of Versailles, where you’ll see the local war memorial and the building that housed German forces before the treaty signing. The guide’s storytelling makes these spots more than just plaques and statues—they become portals into the past.

Haras de Jardy Refreshment Break

Midway, the group takes a well-earned break at the scenic Haras de Jardy, where snacks are provided. Reviewers like Michael_W mention that JB’s attentiveness ensured the kids had a great time, and the break is a perfect opportunity to relax, chat, and enjoy the surroundings.

The Riding Experience

The scooters are electric, so the focus is on enjoying the sights and stories rather than physical exertion. We loved how effortless it was to cover the roughly 18 miles, especially on forest tracks and small streets without the stress of traffic or steep hills. The helmets, gloves, and optional ponchos (Kways) kept us comfortable, even if the weather shifted slightly.

JB’s presence with a GoPro and walkie-talkies made communication easy and added a layer of professionalism to the tour. Reviewers highlight how much they appreciated JB’s storytelling skills—he’s clearly passionate and deeply knowledgeable, making history engaging without feeling rushed.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $173.64 per person includes guide services, scooter rental, safety equipment, snacks, and the GoPro camera with a memory card for capturing your moments. Considering the private, small-group experience with personalized attention, this price offers solid value—especially given the inclusion of detailed historical insights that you might miss on a self-guided tour.

While lunch or dinner isn’t included, the refreshment breaks and snacks help keep energy levels high. The tour’s duration of around four hours strikes a good balance between being comprehensive without feeling overly long.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This outing is best suited for travelers who enjoy active, outdoor experiences combined with history. It’s perfect for adults or older teens comfortable on bikes or scooters and interested in lesser-known facets of Versailles’s history. The tour’s intimate size makes it ideal for small families, couples, or friends seeking a personalized, engaging experience away from large crowds.

It’s not suitable for children under 14 or those who aren’t comfortable on electric scooters, so plan accordingly. If you’re looking for a leisurely, museum-style visit, this might not be your best fit—this is more about movement, stories, and unique sights.

Final Thoughts

This Versailles: Path of the Heroes tour stands out because it offers a fresh perspective on a well-trodden area, combining history and outdoor fun effortlessly. The guided commentary from JB elevates the experience, making often-overlooked wartime sites meaningful and memorable.

For those who appreciate active sightseeing and want to learn about WWI and WWII stories without the confines of a traditional walking tour, this is an excellent choice. The small group size, personalized touches, and the chance to explore the forest tracks and small streets of Versailles add an adventurous touch that many other tours lack.

The tour balances value and authenticity—you get to uncover lesser-known stories, enjoy the scenery, and have fun on electric scooters. It’s a fantastic way to add a layer of depth to your visit to Versailles, especially if you’re interested in history beyond the palace.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s forbidden for children under 14 years old. The activity requires participants to know how to ride a bike and be comfortable on electric scooters.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, covering around 18 miles on cycle paths, forest tracks, and small streets.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a guide, electric scooters, helmets, gloves, snacks, a GoPro with a memory card, Kway rain ponchos, and walkie-talkies for communication.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 12 days in advance, as it is a popular experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at a central location in Versailles and ends back at the same meeting point.

In all, the “Versailles: Path of the Heroes” tour offers a lively, engaging way to uncover the lesser-seen sides of Versailles’s wartime past. It’s perfect for active, history-curious travelers seeking a small-group, personalized adventure that combines outdoor activity with storytelling.