This trip is  an absolute little gem - just a stone throw away from Paris...you will be transported to a charming village full of colour and beauty. Check out our checklist at the bottom of this blog post for all the tips.

 

Hop on the train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny (just under an hour)- it's a picturesque train ride. Then catch the shuttle bus straight to the heart of the village of Giverny.

First stop was Monet's house and gardens- I booked tickets in advance-it was pure magic with a garden full of colour in tulip season (April) . We missed the waterlilies (July and August) but the Japanese bridge and bamboo and peaceful setting did not disappoint despite many visitors. And the house with colourful rooms, the yellow dining room and blue kitchen ans the stunning light seeping through. I could imagine what it was like with the walls full of paintings and Monets friends art and the beloved Japanese art he admired and was inspired by. (On the walls there were only copies).

 

 

Afterwards, take a slow stroll through the village, soaking in it's artistic charm.

Lunch was a treat at La Capucine Giverny-fresh, local, and relaxed in a beautiful garden setting. Then if you have time to visit the Musée des Impressionnismes, the spirit of Monet and his peers truly comes alive and It's great to see the original Art 

A scoop of artisanal ice cream at Le Giverny Chocolat by Babzacao and a few minutes sitting under parasols-yes, it's as good as it sounds.

Do not miss a visit if the Hotel Baudy and gardens which was at the center of the artists social lives.

Finish by looking walking the 11th c Romanesque church Église Sainte-Radegonde whereClaude Monet and his family are buried.

Before heading back, I picked up some local apple juice and cider from the nearby vergers (orchards)-the perfect souvenir from a perfect day.