Fondation Claude Monet, Giverny

This was my second time to Giverny. (The first was 30 years ago.) No surprise, the gardens were beautiful, the pond was beautiful, the flowers up close were beautiful BUT - and this is a big BUT - the crowds were too much, in both the house and the gardens. It was honestly stressful to try to walk along the paths because there were so many people crammed onto the grounds. I’m used to going to gardens to be reflective and to enjoy the experience. The crowds made it unpleasant (And this was a Monday. Imagine what it would be like on the weekend!) That’s why I gave the Monet house three stars instead of five. I have no desire to go back, no matter how pretty my pictures turned out. I actually felt anxiety amidst the crowds. I’d like to make a recommendation to the Foundation, if that doesn’t seem to pompous: please only allow a certain number of people on the grounds every day. Charge a little more to make up for what you might lose in ticket sales. But please reduce the number of people – and regulate (stagger) the times so that the there are not thousands of people, trying to navigate a place that is supposed to be tranquil and contemplative. (In my photos, I waited for people to pass – so you can’t see the crowds - but trust me, they were there!)

A very special place to visit to see the work of this great painter. The garden is well laid out and signposted. Lots of photo opportunities as well as time to reflect on the beauty of the planting. The house is a bonus to see how Monet lived, his work, the amazing views of the garden from the house. Timed tickets. Spend about 3 hours. The gift shop is good value and there is something for everyone in terms of price options. Places to eat and drink in the village. Parking is well organised. Couldn’t give 5 stars as staff made us wait an hour in the sun due to staffing issues with no regard to the bill elderly members of the group.