Harmony in Normandie

As soon as one arrives to Monet’s residence in Giverny, a waterfall of emotion flows over you. The estate is beautiful and full of magnificent color. It’s almost as if you just stepped into a dreamland.

Giverny is a small village situated 50 miles outside of Paris in an area commonly called the gateway to Normandie. This serene setting was the perfect place to inspire Monet’s work and for him to settle down.

Aside from being a master of Impressionism, Claude Monet was also an exceptional gardener. His garden comprises of two distinct parts: a flower garden called Clos Normand in front of the house and a Japanese inspired water garden across the road. The design and aesthetic of these gardens did not happen by chance. Monet crafted them as true works of art, full of intriguing perspectives, brilliant color, and tantalizing curves and asymmetries.

One aspect that really strikes a chord is that Monet was just as concerned with the way the water reflected these beautiful scenes as the flowers themselves. It’s this attention to detail that really communicates Monet’s artistic ingenuity.

His house is just as breathtaking; every detail has been restored. You can even view his famously known collection of Japanese prints. It’s fascinating to experience firsthand where an artist of Monet’s caliber lived and worked.

Today, Monet’s home is a source of inspiration and beauty open to any traveler willing to make the journey.