Monet’s Normandy Beckons: A Seven-Day Artistic Escape
Follow in the Footsteps of Impressionism’s Masters
Prepare for a visual journey through the landscapes that ignited the Impressionist movement. A week-long exploration of Normandy reveals the inspiration behind the works of Claude Monet and his contemporaries, offering a unique blend of art, history, and coastal beauty.
Giverny: The Heart of Monet’s World
Begin your adventure in the charming village of Giverny, home to Monet’s celebrated gardens. The Maison et Jardins de Claude Monet, a hugely popular destination, showcases the house and gardens that fueled his creativity. Explore the Clos Normand, bursting with flowers, and the iconic water garden with its Japanese bridge – a scene immortalized in countless paintings.
The seasons dramatically transform Giverny. From spring daffodils and tulips to summer poppies and lilies, and autumn dahlias and sunflowers, the gardens offer a constantly evolving spectacle. Consider visiting in July or August to avoid crowds, though the light is most nuanced at other times.
Rouen: Medieval Charm and Artistic Legacy
An hour’s drive from Giverny lies Rouen, a city steeped in history and artistic inspiration. The city’s medieval center, with its narrow lanes and half-timbered houses, captivated Monet, who created studies of the magnificent Cathédrale Notre Dame. These works are displayed at the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Immerse yourself in the artistic spirit with an art class, or explore the 14th-century Abbatiale St-Ouen, a masterpiece of Rayonnant Gothic architecture. Don’t miss the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, which recounts the story of Joan of Arc, executed in Rouen in 1431.
Coastal Breezes: Dieppe and the Côte d’Albâtre
Journey to Dieppe, a charming harbor town, and then explore the dramatic Côte d’Albâtre. This stretch of coastline, with its towering white cliffs, inspired generations of artists. According to the Statista, France welcomed over 90 million international tourists in 2023, with Normandy being a key destination for cultural tourism.
Visit the Musée de Dieppe and explore the surrounding villages, including Pourville, immortalized by Monet. The area also bears witness to the tragic events of WWII, commemorated at the Mémorial du 19 août 1942.
Fécamp and Étretat: Cliffs and Coastal Views
Continue to Fécamp, known for its monastic history and the Palais de la Bénédictine distillery. Then, arrive at Étretat, famed for its breathtaking cliffs and picturesque scenery. Monet painted over 80 canvases here, captivated by the dramatic landscape.
Explore the village, climb to the vantage points above the cliffs, and soak in the views that inspired so many artists.
Le Havre and Honfleur: Modernity and Maritime History
Visit Le Havre, a city rebuilt after WWII by Auguste Perret, and explore the MuMa La Havre, which houses an impressive collection of Impressionist art. Then, head to Honfleur, a picturesque port town with a charming old harbor and the Musée Eugène Boudin, dedicated to the work of the Honfleur-born Impressionist painter.
Deauville and Trouville: A Grand Finale
Conclude your journey in the elegant seaside resorts of Deauville and Trouville-sur-Mer. Explore Deauville’s designer boutiques and gardens, and then wander through Trouville’s charming streets, where Monet spent his honeymoon in 1870. These towns offer a perfect blend of relaxation and coastal charm.
Normandy offers a wealth of experiences beyond this itinerary, from the D-Day beaches to the culinary delights of Brittany. This road trip provides a captivating glimpse into the world that inspired the Impressionist masters, leaving you with lasting memories of art, history, and natural beauty.
