The Genius of Monet24th May 2024
From:£1,045
Summary
Just as the gardens at Giverny inspired Monet, who spent half his life nurturing and enjoying them, so they continue to enthrall countless visitors more than 90 years after his death. The lovingly restored gardens give a vivid impression of Monet's favourite subjects. The gardens are filled with poppies, lupins, delphiniums and peonies, and throughout the year the atmosphere is of abundant colour and luxuriant growth. Arched bridges, painted an acid apple green, are festooned with wisteria and the draped fronds of weeping willow frame the water lilies - Monet's paintings brought unnervingly to life.
The perfect complement to Giverny is the Orangerie Museum in Paris, which underwent an extensive renovation in 2006. The centerpiece of this outstanding collection is Monet’s breathtaking series of murals, Les Nymphéas. Housed in two vast elliptical rooms, the 2-metre high murals extend to almost 200m in length and provide a moving and unforgettable testament to the genius of a painter at the height of his powers.
Besides Giverny, we visit the Château de Chantilly, with its extensive collection of fine art and its gardens designed by Le Nôtre, and the pleasant market town of Senlis.
Our tour is based at the 4-star Château de Montvillargenne, the largest château hotel in France, set in a 15 acre park. The hotel is noted for the quality of its food and wine is included with dinner each evening, making for a very convivial atmosphere.
What to Expect
- The incomparable gardens of Giverny, carefully maintained as Monet would have wished
- The Orangerie Museum and Les Nymphéas – impressionism at its most impressive
- The sumptuously decorated Grands Appartements and the Galeries de Peintures of the Château de Chantilly
- Comfortable rail travel with Eurostar
Day by Day Itinerary
We depart from London St Pancras International on the morning Eurostar service through the Channel Tunnel to Paris Gare du Nord. (First Class upgrades and regional connections also available on request). On arrival we will be met by our comfortable local coach and travel to the charming town of Chantilly, situated in the heart of the Chantilly Forest, nineteen miles north of Paris. Our hotel, the Château de Montvillargenne, is approximately three miles from the town centre set in its own wooded grounds on Avenue Francois Mathet. Please note that due to renovation work the hotel swimming pool will not be available at this time.
Bedroom upgrades are also available to the executive deluxe rooms. They are all individually designed and offer a higher level of comfort including a private whirlpool bath.
In the evening once you have settled into your room join our party for a welcome glass of Kir in the bar before dinner. Wine is included with dinner each evening.
Meals includedDinner
