The Orsay Museum was originally a Belle Époque train station before its transformation into an art museum. It is separated by sculpture on the main floor, Art Nouveau furniture in one area, and Impressionist paintings—the heart and soul of the museum—on the upper level. 

We will look at selected works by Monet, Renoir, Rodin, Degas, Van Gogh and the exquisite paintings of the “Nabi” artist, Bonnard, whose vibrant use of radiant purple and orange is astonishing! Your tour leader will provide on-site commentary on the lives of selected artists and give insights into the meanings of the works viewed. After lunch, we’ll take an excursion to Giverny, Monet’s home and gardens!

Monet's Gardens at Giverny!

Hear the story of Claude Monet and his world-famous gardens at Giverny--a work of love, nurtured by a man with a vision for beauty. The "Clos Normandy" is the flower garden, found in front of the house. The other is the exotic water garden, with its gorgeous water lilies and Japanese footbridge. 

The gardens have been restored to an exquisite and beautiful state, and appear today as they were in Monet's time, including the famous Japanese-type bridge and pond. The abundance of flowers and the reflections of nature in the beautiful pond are truly a celebration of light and color. In the garden shop across the road, you may purchase seeds from the gardens. Plant them in your backyard, and bring home a piece of Giverny!

"Monet's gardens at Giverny were a center of peace and tranquility which fed my soul!"
Former Participant, Roger from Callifornia

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The Orsay Museum was originally a train station! Today it holds one of the world's greatest collections of Impressionist art.

  

Flowers are everywhere in Monet's gardens-a celebration of color and light!