Claude Monet

Claude Monet was the French founder of the Impressionist style of painting that began in the 1860s and which is still so popular today. Born in 1840 in Paris, the majority of his lifetime was spent in various regions of Normandy and the area had a major impact on his career.

Chateau de Houetteville also located in Normandy, in the sleepy village of Houetteville is the perfect French retreat for art lovers and impressionist fanatics alike. Built in the 12th century this traditional and grand chateau offers its guests a breathtaking Grand Salon complete with exquisite art work, framed in gold guilt which adorns the walls. The seven unique bedroom suites all named after famous French historical figures, including Monet, have been designed with intricate artwork and rich detailing as the main theme.

The romantic city of Paris is only a 50 minute train ride away from the Chateau and offers a whole host of treasures to explore. The church of Notre-Dame-de-Lortette is where Claude Oscar Monet was baptized and The Louvre which is one of the world's most visited art museums and historical monuments is where Monet spent many days sitting at a window and painting the French lifestyle he observed.

Le Havre is the closest ferry port to the Chateau being just a 90 minute car journey away. Monet spent much time there when his family moved to the city and it is also the place where he started Le Havre Secondary School for Arts in 1851.

The Normandy Beaches, made famous during the Second World War as the setting for the invasion and the establishment of the allied forces is also the place where Monet first met artist Eugène Boudin. Boudin was to become a major influence on Monet’s art career and introduced him to oils. The Normandy Beaches are a 2 hour drive away from the Chateau.

The River Seine played an important part in Monet’s life. He lived in a small village on the Seine called Argenteuil for 7 years and after his wife’s death, Monet attempted suicide by throwing himself in the river. The best place to visit the river is at Rouen where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake and her ashes thrown into the Seine. From the Chateau, Rouen is just a 30 minute drive away.

It is however to Giverny where lovers of Monet tend to flock. The Gardens at Giverny are only 20 minutes from the Chateau de Houetteville. This is where Monet bought his first and last house and where he acquired a large plot of land which is now the world renowned Monet’s Gardens. This unique place of beauty and tranquility attracts more than 500,000 visitors a year.