Why is Giverny Closed in the Winter?

by Ariane ~ December 30, 2016

giverny-december

If you live in another corner of the world it may be hard for you to imagine what Giverny looks like in the winter. Monet’s gardens and house, as well as the museum of Impressionisms Giverny, are closed from November to the end of March (March 24, 2017 is the re-opening day). 

The reason therefore: there isn’t much to see. Monet’s garden is a painter’s garden full of flowers and colors, and right now, it is too cold for flowers. On a nice sunny day, it may be lovely to walk around the pond looking for interesting reflections. But on an overcast or foggy day the experience lacks of charm.

The flower beds are being replanted for the next spring. A few green leaves indicate where stunning fox gloves or colorful wallflowers will stand in a few months.  Even with a lot of gardener’s imagination it is impossible to figure out the magical feeling of their full bloom in springtime.

Monet himself didn’t paint his garden during the winter. He preferred the seaside, snow effects in Norway, or cityscapes in London or Venice.

If you still intend to tour Giverny while the garden is closed, be prepared to stay out of Monet’s Foundation. The village itself is peaceful, just like any village in the countryside. You will see a few places that Monet painted, poplars along the Epte, the banks of the river Seine, the old mill and the church of Vernon. Don’t forget to pay him a visit on his grave next to the church of Giverny. The cemetery  is open year round. 

2 Responses to “Why is Giverny Closed in the Winter?”

  1. Jax Tabbara Says:

    I just realized that the Monet Foundation is closed in the winter.. 🙁 I was hoping I could propose to my girlfriend on the water bridge. Are there any special love acceptions? It would be a dream of mine. If not, do you have any recommendations? or suggestions that can make this day very special and romantic? anywhere in Paris or nearby that may be just as beautiful as Giverny?
    Thank you,
    Jax

  2. Ariane Says:

    I find the bridges over the Seine in Paris a romantic place for a proposal. But there are so many other places that would do well. Paris in itself is totally romantic. Congratulations!

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