Just a hop, skip, jump south of Paris is the magnificent Palace of Fontainebleau - a holiday home par excellence.
There’s no doubt that the medieval castle and subsequent palace made a breathtaking summer residence for Napoleon, his two wives - two illegitimate children, two step-children and his legitimate son.
Some rooms speak of masculine power and riches, some have a feminine air and there’s a lovely baby’s cradle on show.
You really need a whole day to appreciate the wealth and splendour lavished upon it.
The ubiquitous audio visual guides are a great help. Most of the information is bi-lingual, but some of the smaller exhibit labels are only in French, though that is only a minor irritation.
Do not, do not miss this quintessential abode of an Emperor. You will be spellbound.