HOLIDAYS  BUYING  HELPLINE Great escapes: Ile de France 7 Monet Gardens Retreat to the countryside for a visit to the beautiful place that was the inspiration for one of the great masters of impressionism. Atrip to the Monet Gardens in the small village of Giverny is a must for art lovers. Although really in Normandy, it is on the sightseeing agenda for both regions. We chose to include it in this Great Escape because it lies within an hour's journey of Paris and makes a popular round trip from the capital. It is also no more than a 32km drive from Camping Domaine d'Inchelin, Illiers la Ville where we were based. To get there, we followed the D114 for 9km east to join the N13/15 north west for 18km to Vernon, then the D5 south east for 5km to Giverny. An alternative for the keep-fit enthusiast is to hire a bike and savour the approach to Giverny by cycling the 6km from Vernon station. The hills and tree-lined river set the scene for a day out in one of the most perfect of gardens. Be warned; fans of impressionism flock to Giverny and whatever time of the day you get there you'll find yourself queuing and jostling with the crowds. Best advice is to visit midweek, preferably before lunch - it just might be a little less packed, especially if you intend to spend time in the Monet House which has been restored to its original design. Art and nature Giverny is a charming village, but offers little beyond its association with art and Monet. Its near neighbour Vernon, west of the village, can offer a spot of sightseeing and is worthy of a stop. But the famous name is that of Giverny, because it was here that Monet chose a residence that was to be his home from April 1883 until his death in 1926. The delightful house offers light relief from the more austere French château visits and is adorned with reproductions of the master's work. But it's the gardens that are really impressive. Replanted as they once were they are a sight to behold. Claude Monet offered 'painting from nature' and we can only stand by and admire. Not least to be admired is the Clos Normand, to the fore of the house. Whether you keep the Water Garden to the last, or head there first, it is definitely a special place. It lies further away from the house, is shaded by weeping willows and is noted for its Japanese Bridge. What a wonderful sight when you follow the underpass which separates the two sections of the gardens and emerge into a familiar setting - one which was Monet's creation and inspiration. In our view, the sheer charm of Giverny makes it a 'must visit' spot. ATTRACTIONS Claude Monet House and Gardens 84 Rue Claude-Monet, Giverny. Tel 02 32 51 28 21. Open Every day except Monday from 1 April-1 Nov 10am-6pm. Exceptional opening hours on Mondays and public holidays. Admission Gardens only, adults FF25; children under 7, free; children 7-12 years FF20. House and gardens admission, adults FF35. Foundation Shop Housed in the restored Nympheas studio. The Foundation Cafeteria , Seed and Flower Shop Situated near the car parking area. American Museum Works of the American Impressionists at 99 Rue Claude Monet. Tel 02 32 51 94 65. Entrance fee FF35. Open Apr-Oct Tues-Sun 10am-6pm. Recommended Road Map Michelin Yellow No.237. Tourist Information 36 Rue Carnot BP 110, 27201 Vernon. Tel 02 32 51 39 60. HOME PAGE | TOP OF PAGE ISLE DE FRANCE   Chantilly  Parc Asterix  Compiegne  Fontainbleau  Disneyland Paris  Versailles  Monet Gardens  BACK TO ARCHIVE PARK GUIDE  Camping Domaine d'Inchelin STATICS ONLY - NO TOURERS Here you can relax and breathe in the fresh country air, yet be within easy reach of Paris and the Monet Gardens. Developed around old farm buildings, this site - which has a swimming pool - always maintains a high standard. Pitches are spacious and divided by hedging. Trains for Paris leave from nearby Breval station, but the drive to Giverny is delightful.  • WE LIKED Countryside environment, large pitches and quality facilities.  • BE WARNED The access road is narrow so care is needed at the site entrance.  • WOULD SUIT Those after a peaceful setting, and planning to spend time in Vernon and the Monet Gardens. Address St Illiers la Ville, 78980 Breval. Tel 00 33 (0)1 34 76 10 11. Open 1 April-15 October. Shopping 4km (basics on site). Nearest pub On site FFCC Grading *** HOLIDAYS  BUYING  HELPLINE Contact Practical Caravan Best viewed in screen resolution 800 x 600 using Internet Explorer or Firefox.