GARDENS OF VERSAILLES, FRANCE
In the 17th century, André Le Nôtre was considered the
greatest landscape architect in France. In 1661, he was
commissioned by Louis XIV with the design and laying
out of the gardens at Versailles. The gardens took 40
years to complete. Whole regiments were enlisted to
help shift vast amounts of earth by wheelbarrow to lay
out the flower beds, the orangerie, the fountains and
the canal where previously only swamp, woods and
grasslands were. Today, many of the 50 or so fountains
use the same network of hydraulics, and some of the
fountains gush to the rhythm of music. You too will be
gushing on an optional visit to this extraordinary place.
KEUKENHOF, THE NETHERLANDS
Every spring, botanists, flower fans and tourists
alike make the annual pilgrimage to Keukenhof, the
world's largest flower garden. Here, you can see an
unforgettable seasonal display of more than seven
million tulips, daffodils, narcissus, hyacinths and other
spring bulbs, as well as bluebells and orchids. Its 80
acres are dotted with lovely greenhouses, streams and
ponds. Keukenhof began life in the 15th century as a
herb garden—its name translates as "kitchen garden."
Remarkably, it is redesigned every year to keep up
with current floral trends. Stroll along tree-lined paths
past a sea of colours and alongside winding streams
and tranquil ponds.
Visit Monet's gardens on the Monet
Foundation Giverny optional excursion on our
Paris & the Heart of Normandy river voyage.
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MONET'S HOUSE & GARDEN,
GIVERNY, FRANCE
In Giverny, Claude Monet spent over four decades
cultivating a garden that would become both his
sanctuary and muse. With the eye of a painter and
the heart of a horticulturist, he carefully selected
each plant for its colour, texture and seasonal
rhythm, designing the garden as a living palette.
From the vibrant flowerbeds of the Clos Normand
to the tranquil water garden with its iconic lily pond
and Japanese bridge, every corner reflects Monet's
artistic vision. The house itself, with its cheerful pink
façade and green shutters, offers a glimpse into
Monet's daily life and artistic spirit.
Enjoy the Gardens of Versailles on The Palace
of Versailles optional excursion on Paris &
the Heart of Normandy river itinerary.
Discover Keukenhof on our Keukenhof Gardens
& Historic Haarlem optional excursion on our
Holland & Belgium river journey.
BONUS VIDEO
13 | Viking Explorer Society News
