Monet’s Garden in April

I know that this is not a Marden garden, but I guess Monet’s garden in Giverny would be on most gardener’s bucket list if they haven’t already been there. My sister and I were lucky enough to get a bargain price Seine cruise. Thus we arrived on a cloudy but not rainy day. We hadn’t known what to expect in April but the scene was stunningly beautiful. The famous wisteria across the Japanese bridge was in bloom but the water lilies were yet to fully appear. Never had we seen such an abundance of tulips in all forms and colours, backed by an enhancing variety of other flowers. So pleased to have achieved this dream.

Just a little background – Monet lived here for 43 years until his death in 1926. The land previously had orchards and alleyways lined with cypress trees. The vegetables and fruit were immediately moved behind the house. Painting in the open air was his great love, alongside a love of things Japanese. The water gardens became possible when Monet bought more land and diverted water from a branch of the River Epte. So became this work of art.

After his death the upkeep of the house and garden fell into decline. His son was not at all interested. Later an American asked his fellow compatriots to contribute to a renovation and they gave most of what was needed. In 1980 the Fondation Claude Monet was formed (a non profit making organisation). So now the garden welcomes visitors from April to November.

Eunice Doswell - May 2025