Normandy boasts some splendid towns, many characterised by traditional Norman architecture with its distinctive wooden beams offset against whitewashed walls and known locally as ‘colombage’. A typical example of this is the village of Beuvron-en-Auge, just one of many such villages on the well signposted ‘Route du Cidre’. Sit here, or indeed in any of the lovely Norman towns and people watch outside a pavement café. Surprisingly, given the regions recent history in the latter years of WWII, many of Normandy’s towns remain intact, particularly true of Bayeux, a town that is well worth visiting. Along the coast a few gems can be found, including Honfleur with one of the most photogenic harbour bassins in all France.

Giverny

Description: Giverny is renowned as being the home for 43 years of Claude Monet, possibly the most well-known of all the French impressionist painters. It is a very pretty village situated close to the River Seine.

Location: About 40 kms SE of Rouen on D5 just east of Vernon. It is conveniently accessed by A13 autoroute.

General Information: Visit www.giverny.org/family for useful info and links to many family friendly sites in Giverny and the surrounding area, including several castles. Giverny is best known for the Claude Monet house and gardens. These are open daily, except Monday, from 9.30-6.00 and from 1st April-1st Nov. Car parking is in designated car-parks (no high vehicles) close to the village , but expect a reasonable walk.

Our Recommendations: The Monet house and gardens are very popular and queuing at weekends and during the holidays is inevitable. We strongly advise that you get there well in advance of the official opening hours. However if this is not possible and the queues are too bad we’d recommend an alternative visit to the free gardens around the Musée d’Art Americain and perhaps a wander round the museum itself (small charge). There is also an excellent restaurant here.

Giverny village is well worth a visit. You will find lots of art galleries and eating establishments or there is a large area in the village centre which is ideal for picnics and was the scene of an out-door amateur art competition on a recent visit.

For the children: An early start is essential so children don’t get bored. Combine with other things in the area.

 

Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to Normandy: