France Day 4: Monet's Gardens (Giverny)

Wednesday, August 20th

Waking up refreshed this morning was nice! This entire trip was go, go, go and I don't think I have ever slept better. Usually by 10pm I was ready for bed which never happens (for instance, it is 2AM right now...). We boarded the ship the night before, and overnight, sailed to Vernon. It was so cool to wake up, look out the window, and be in a new place! Before our trip I was wondering if the movement of the boat would keep me awake, but I never even felt it move. River cruises are pretty smooth.

After breakfast on the ship (it was a buffet every morning with pastries, fruits, eggs, sausage, pancakes, etc.) we headed to Giverny. It was a short bus ride from Vernon. Every outing we went on we would first pick up a headset for our tour guides to communicate with us from, and then meet up with our guide waiting for us outside the ship.

Giverny is where Claude Monet's house and gardens are. Some of his most famous paintings were inspired by his gardens here. I can definitely see why, this is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been! Usually gardens are not really my thing, but this one was. It was gorgeous, unbelievably green, and flowers everywhere. It reminded me of a fairyland. 

Morning fog on the river Seine.

Arriving in Giverny.

Mom is a fan of Monet and was really excited about seeing this place. It ended up being her favorite part of the whole trip!

Mom, LeMoyne, and Cindy!

Monet's home. We weren't allowed to take pictures inside, but it was gorgeous! Vintage decor and very colorful!

The view of his gardens from the second floor.

There was a fenced in area that had birds in it with a sign reading, "Please do not disturb the fowl", only I thought it said, "Please do not disturb the owl" so mom and I spent a good amount of time searching for the owl. Finally mom said, "I think it says fowl." Yes, mom, yes it does. 

After the gardens, we walked around the the little town area for a bit before it was time to back to the ship for lunch and our tour of Vernon. The houses/lawn are so green and beautiful. 

 Next up: Fresh made crepes on the ship!