Monet's garden, Giverny

Gretel's birthday present was a visit to Monet's garden, Monet being her favourite artist. We had heard it was a popular tourist attraction, so we arrived well before opening time. It was just as well we did because shortly after opening the gardens were invaded by an army of people.

The gardens and house were magnificent, but the sheer number of people in a relatively small space meant the garden was not a place of relaxation.

The garden and house were a symphony of colour. Monet created a special inspirational setting for his painting.

The lilypond

Waiting to get in.

Inside

The artist's garden (a copy only)

Dining room

The creator.

The view from his bedroom

Looking up towards the house.