Malmaison - easiest way to get there

Take Metro Line 1 from Pl de la Bastille to la Defense and then Bus 258 from there to the chateau. Tell the driver you want the chateau stop. It is then a 5 minute walk up a tree lined lane to the chateau.

This is a wonderful trip. Be sure to google map the walking route from the bus stop so you have a clear idea of where you are going.

As I remember, the walking route is just a straight shot from the bus stop, starting from the restaurant on your left hand side.

Malmaison is absolutely worth a visit. Coming from the D913 where the bus stops the chateau is well signposted. Additionally you can use googel streetview as well to have an impression about the direction to walk.

Honestly, you don't need google maps, you don't need google street view, you do need common sense. Get off the bus, the restaurant is on the left, walk up the tree lined lane. Bob's your uncle (he's the uncle with the google maps)

The previous posters have got the directions right, but be warned that the chateau is closed for lunch! It closes from 1230 to 1330, but the last admission is at 1145. The restaurant mentioned above is the only nearby place to eat if you get shut out: the food is pretty good but not cheap.

Also remember that if you are using carnet tickets:
Carnet tickets CANNOT be used on RER Line A to La Defence, but only on Metro Line 1
You will need to use two carnet tickets for the trip each way, one for the Metro and then another for the bus.

I forgot that, Philip. We were unceremoniously ejected at noon the first time we were there by very officious employees. But we had a nice lunch at the bus stop restaurant, so all's well etc.

If you are going to be in Paris for a week , check into the navigo pass , it's good for all 5 zones , subways rer trains and busses , it will save on buying a carnet of tickets and will save money in the long run.

Phillip, just to confirm/clarify what you are saying about using from carnet of tickets on RER: I believe if I go directly to a nearby ReR station and take that to La Defense, I can in fact use my ticket (RATP?). The problem is coming back as I am outside the historic city zone I will have to buy an RER ticket to return to Chatelet Les Halles. Thanks for the reminder, but I already know I cannot switch from metro to bus and consider it a transfer, but must use a separate ticket for the bus. I don't envision using the metro at all, although I might consider the scenic way back and take bus #73 from La Defense.

No if you go directly to an RER line and take it to la Defense you will have exceeded the t+ ticket and be subject to a hefty fine on the spot. I think it is 35 Euro if you pay it right there; more if later. Because you will not be able to exit with your ticket from the RER at la Defense, odds are good you will be stopped and fined.

The t+ tickets are only good for Paris (and where the METRO not the RER laps over into the surrounding suburbs. ) Thus a metro ticket works to la Defense and an RER ticket doesn't unless you bought one from Paris to la Defense. You never have to worry about zones on the metro; you do have to be aware on the RER since it is metered and you need the ticket to exit.

Janet's right. If you try to use a T+ ticket on the RER to La Defense, you will not be able to get through the exit gate and you will get fined.

Thanks, everyone. I now have a transportation plan; I'm even thinking of taking the bus to La Defense and seeing what's between the center city and there, then switching to the bus to the chateaux. I can always take the metro back. But one additional question, can you stay in the gardens during the time the house is closed or do they close that too? I was wondering about just bringing a snack or sandwich in my purse and relaxing in the garden while I was waiting for the house to reopen.

No, the gardens are shut during the lunch break as well.

A wonderful place to visit! But, remember to bring a Govt-issued photo ID (passport or drivers license) if you wish to rent an audio guide. It's quite good and does enhance your visit. (unfortunately, I had only a credit card last time I went and the ticket-seller was adamant that a Govt ID was required).