The Place Monet Called Home

[Carmen Elsa Irarragorri Wyland]

Have you ever seen a garden more beautiful than that belonging to Monet? His flowery garden and water lily pond often served as an inspiration for the famous artist. Monet fell in love with Giverny, near Paris, when he caught a glimpse of the town as his train passed by. He eventually decided to settle here in 1883 and for 43 years he called this lovely place home.

The Gardens
The best time to visit the gardens is from April to October. But to see the garden in its full glory come in July, when the flowers are in full bloom. Walk along the small paths lined with flower beds, as you meander through the garden. This will enable you to get up close to the amazing colors and smells.

Iron arches mark the center of the garden.

Color at every turn.

Monet was never keen on a well-manicured garden. He always preferred to have his flowers and a wide variety of colors merge freely.

The smell of lavender is prevalent throughout the gardens.

The water lilies are perhaps the most striking part of the garden.

July and August are water lily season in Giverny – so be sure to time your visit accordingly.

Aren’t they just delightful?

The pond is surrounded by a river that flows throughout the water gardens.

A collector of Japanese prints, Monet was inspired to feature a Japanese green bridge in his garden surrounded by weeping willows and bright flowers, making it one of the most beautiful places in the gardens.

The iconic Japanese bridge is undoubtedly a highlight of Monet’s gardens.

The House
But it’s not just Monet’s gardens that attract many-a-tourist to Giverny. The house is just as stunning. Monet lived there until his death in 1926 and the furniture is exactly the same as it was then. The paintings, however, are reproductions. As you tour Monet’s house, you will get the chance to admire his bedroom, and that of his wife Alice, a sitting room, a pantry, Monet’s first studio, his kitchen, and a dining room.

Stop to admire the soft hues of pink and green on the house’s exterior.

Pictured above is Monet's bedroom. His wife Alice, had her own bedroom next door.

An incredible view of the gardens can be seen from the house.

A bright yellow dining room.

Copper pots are hung along the kitchen walls.

Monet's first studio is pictured here, which later became his smoking room.

A framed photograph of Monet and his wife Alice.

Over 500,000 visitors make the trip to the gardens every year.

The Best Time to Visit Monet's Gardens
The gardens are busiest in the afternoon, though crowds tend to dwindle as closing time approaches. If you plan your visit in the early morning hours or late afternoon you likely won't encounter a queue to enter Monet's house.

[SunKat]

Monet was the first artist I ever took note of.  I really enjoy his work.  Thank you for this beautiful look inside his world!