Tourism in Normandy: Giverny
Top of our "place to explore" wish-list is a weekend in Giverny, a city steeped in history, culture and natural beauty.
From Paris and Versailles as neighbours to Deauville and the picturesque village of Giverny, Normandy has plenty to offer even the most discerning traveller. It also happens to be the home of our latest designer outlet.
Le Jardin Des Plumes is perhaps one of the most charming places to stay in the Giverny area and an ideal spot to explore the surrounding Eure. A building that dates back to Anglo-Norman times, Le Jardin has a selection of beautifully designed rooms and suites combining contemporary decor and traditional period features. Basking in natural light, the hotel sits in abundant grounds where relaxation is the order of the day.
For character in equal measure, consider a stay at La Dîme de Giverny, a traditional guesthouse and converted barn that sits in a one-hectare garden surrounded by fruit trees. In the evening, you can enjoy some local wine on La Dîme’s rather stunning patio.
A stone’s throw from Monet’s house, the attractive white and blue edifice of Le Jardin des Plumes also provides a culinary experience well worthy of its Michelin star. Run by acclaimed Normandy chef David Gallienne, the menu offers a veritable bounty of seafood and seasonal flavours.
If you’re looking for something a little more informal, the Ancien Hôtel Baudy is another excellent choice and a chance to experience a slice of history. Once a favourite hangout of Renoir, Rodin and Cézanne amongst others, this former hotel and bar turned restaurant offers a traditional menu set in inspiring surroundings.
After you’ve visited the Fondation Claude Monet and wandered the Clos Normand gardens that inspired his work, take a trip to the nearby Museum of Impressionism. Set in manicured gardens, the museum is home to more than 50 works by American impressionist artists who came to visit Giverny and subsequently fell in love with its beauty.
If you’re feeling energetic, cycle or stroll down the banks of the Seine towards the town of Vernon, famous for The Old Mill, a 14th-century timber house balanced between the ruined medieval bridge. The town’s motto reads ‘Vernon semper viret,’ which loosely translates as ‘Vernon always green.’ Rather fitting when you take the region’s glowing environmental reputation into account.
For grandeur and opulence beyond compare, a trip to The Palace of Versailles is not to be missed. Only an hour by car from Giverny, explore Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors, Grand Trianon and lavish grounds.
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