May 20th, 2024 – Traveled from Paris to Caen
This was an early morning since bags had to be packed, tagged and outside of our room by 6:45. After another delicious breakfast, it was time to get on the bus towards our first stop of the day.
CLAUDE MONET HOME AND GARDEN – Giverny, France
Most everyone is familiar with Monet as an artist, but many do not realize that his other passion was gardening. Well known for painting Water Lilies, the Japanese garden and pond were where much of his inspiration could be found. Especially keen on having light fall at just the right angle as well as the shadows and reflections, the pond was large enough to allow him to capture both morning and late afternoon light.
His home was also open to the public and we enjoyed winding from room to room. Several of us had the same thought – if given the choice we would much rather live here over the palace of Versailles.
The Bayeux Tapestry is an embroidered cloth nearly 70 metres (230 feet) long and 50 centimetres (20 inches) tall that depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, led by William, Duke of Normandy challenging Harold II, King of England, and culminating in the Battle of Hastings. It is thought to date to the 11th century, within a few years of the battle. ~ Wikipedia
BAYEUX CATHEDRAL (aka Cathedral of our Lady of Bayeux)
The original Cathedral was consecrated in 1077 and was probably where the Bayeux Tapestries were kept hidden and safe for centuries. It was rebuilt in the 12th century in the Gothic style
I was most intrigued by the crypt section located underneath the cathedral.
Overnight: Hotel Mercure Caen Centre Park de Plaisance
GRATITUDE MOMENT: Today I am grateful for seeing Monet’s garden in all of its glory. It is being so well maintained and even if you are not a master gardener, one could not help but appreciate the massive amount of care that is required to keep it looking beautiful. Bayeux surprised and delighted me.
A Note From Abroad 
HI Joanne and Tim, We had a similar itinerary with at Road Scholar journey last July and it’s delightful, I have always loved France and being there reminded me again that sometimes going back to a beloved place is a GOOD thing! And, I love seeing your commentary and accounting of it. I agree that Versailles is less desirable, Giverny is far more to my taste … also loved the town of Bayeaux… ( trying to replicate some of those stunning gardens in my own backyard this summer! Haha!!) We are healthy and keeping busy…we had a marvelous adventure in Antarctica this winter, finally, after many COVID related trip delays… we flew over the Drake Passage instead of being on a ship for that … and I can’t tell you how amazing the entire experience was!! Truly exceeded any expectations! Next, In July a girlfriend and I are taking a gardens and etc tour in Ireland – – called 50 Shades of Green… our husbands will be hiking in Scotland at the same time! Be well and know that I am following your adventures!!! Come and visit sometime! Hugs,Anne >
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Anne, I’m so happy to know that you two are doing well and keeping busy! I must admit that I’m a bit jealous of your trip to Antartica. We still have not crossed that last continent off of our list. Have a fantastic time in Ireland. ♥️
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A great day out. I loved Monet’s garden too and it was easy to see how his garden inspired his painting. Did you get to see the tapestry?
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The garden was superb, and I kept expecting Monsieur Monet to be found still in his garden with a paintbrush in hand. 😊 Yes, we did see the tapestry and listened to the narrator describe, section by section, exactly what we were seeing and telling the story. Unfortunately no pictures were allowed inside. I think that the link shows the tapestry in its entirety.
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Oh my. It’s huge! Thanks for that. It must have been so amazing to see. Lucky you.
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Two more place to add to my list. Love the cathedral shots.
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Marie, the gardens alone are quite spectacular, but being able to visit his home was also nice. It is full of beautiful and interesting artwork that had been gifted to him by contemporary artists. Definitely worth the visit. 👍
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