The changing light and picturesque landscapes of the Seine valley inspired the Impressionist painters, starting with one of the most famous, Claude Monet, who spent half of his life in the village of Giverny.
Giverny is the second most visited site in Normandy. Claude Monet settled in the village in 1883 and created gardens that are a work of art in themselves. The water garden and its Japanese bridge inspired his iconic water lilies series, the Nympheas. The flower garden is a burst of colors from late March to late October.
Monet’s family house (listed) displays the furniture and memorabilia of the leader of Impressionism.
After this visit and a lunch break, let’s explore the art show at the Impressionism Museum in Giverny. The museum’s garden designed by Mark Rudkin and labelled ‘Jardin Remarquable’ (outstanding garden) is also worth a look.
We will end our day by a walk through the village of Giverny to recount the story of the Impressionist artists colony, with a stop at the former Hotel Baudy, the Sainte Radegonde Church and Monet’s grave.
