Art and Sea: From Monet's Garden to Historic Honfleur

Experience the Inspiration Behind Impressionism and Norman Coastal Charm

Journey through the landscapes that shaped French Impressionism, from the gardens of Giverny to the luminous harbor of Honfleur. Follow in the footsteps of Claude Monet and his fellow artists who found endless inspiration in Normandy's unique light and natural beauty. 

Morning: Monet's Paradise in Giverny
Your journey begins with a morning pickup in Paris. Along the way, make a stop in the charming village of Giverny, where Monet’s home is located.

Upon arrival at Monet's home, you will discover the intimate world of one of art's greatest masters. The house retains its original yellow and pink facade, while inside, each room displays the vibrant color schemes the artist carefully selected. The bright yellow dining room and blue kitchen reveal Monet's passion for color in his daily life. As you wander through the house, where Monet once collaborated with Renoir, Sisley, and Manet, appreciate the original color schemes he admired and his cherished collection of Japanese prints. 
Monet created the water garden by diverting water from the Epte River, much to his neighbors' initial displeasure. Today, this "folly" is considered one of the world's most beautiful garden designs.
The gardens present two distinct yet harmonious worlds. The Clos Normand flower garden showcases straight-lined paths bordered by flowers chosen for their seasons of bloom, ensuring year-round color, while the water garden, inspired by Japanese designs, features the famous green bridge draped with wisteria and the tranquil pond reflecting clouds and water lilies.

Lunch: Norman Countryside
Your drive to Honfleur offers views of Normandy's landscape. Your guide will suggest local restaurants where you might enjoy regional specialties such as fresh seafood, Camembert cheese, or apple cider.

Afternoon: Historic Honfleur
Arriving in Honfleur, you will discover one of France's most picturesque ports. The Old Harbor (Vieux Bassin), lined with slim, tall houses, has remained largely unchanged since the 17th century. Artists including Courbet, Monet, and Boudin found inspiration in its unique light and maritime atmosphere.
The wooden Church of Saint Catherine, France's largest timber-built church, demonstrates the skill of local shipbuilders who constructed it in the 15th century. Its separate bell tower was built apart from the main structure to protect worshippers from fire should lightning strike the bell.