Claude Monet's garden at Giverny

Only 80 km from north or east of Paris, there is a spot that should never be missed by any art and nature lovers or anybody who loves beauty, and that's Claude Monet's House and Gardens. 

This magical place embraces Five hundred thousand visitors each year during the seven months that it is open.

To prevent people from trampling on the plants, and retaining the garden's beauty, the inner roads are closed to the public, but visitors can walk on the side alleys or all around the garden to admire this incredible place.

There are two sections in Monet's garden: a flower garden called Clos Normand in front of the house and a Japanese inspired water garden on the other side of the road.

When Claude Monet and his family settled in Giverny in 1883, the piece of land sloping gently down from the house to the road was planted with an orchard and enclosed by high stone walls. A central alley joined with pines separated it into two parts. Monet had the pines cut down, keeping only the two yews closest to the house.

From this Clos Normand of about one hectare, Monet made a garden full of perspectives, symmetries, and colors.

One thing you will not see in Monet's House is original artwork. There are reproductions and guides to explain the art, and there are great pictures of Monet at home, and the furnishings are there. 

If you are going to stay in Giverny, and If you ride the train from Paris to Vernon, and then ride the shuttle to Giverny, there are a couple of things to consider. 

By all means, bring a camera and extra batteries, a sketchpad, good walking shoes, and a hat — what a beautiful place to spend an afternoon.