To make the most of the warm weather and take a break from nature, culture and relaxation, hop on the train to Normandy and Vernon! Just 45 minutes or 1 hour from the capital, this charming town with its bucolic atmosphere is perfect for a breath of fresh air, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris. What’s more, it’s within easy reach of Giverny, its gardens and the famous Maison de Monet.
The bucolic charm of Vernon, the ideal destination for a magical getaway
If, like Claude Monet, you’re not insensitive to the charm of Normandy, you’ll have to hop on the train at Saint-Lazare and stop off at Vernon, a peaceful, poetic village. Still untouched by the crowds, this small town on the banks of the Seine enjoys a peaceful calm. For two, with friends or family, it’s the perfect destination for a summer or spring weekend.
When strolling through Vernon, it’s impossible to miss the town’s jewel. At first glance, it looks like a scene from an Impressionist painting… And with good reason: the Vernon mill, perched astride an ancient medieval bridge, literally seems to float above the Seine. While the bridge dates back to the 12th century, the mill itself was built in the 16th century, and its exposed wooden framework is a fine symbol of the passage of time. All in all, it’s a fairytale setting. An ideal spot for a picnic, for example!
For lovers of romantic landscapes and beautiful natural light, this setting is bound to have a special appeal. For example, many photographers and painters have made Vernon their subject. And among the most illustrious of them, it’s hard not to mention Claude Monet, who was one of the many artists to set up his easel in front of the superb mill. But the town’s interest is not limited to the mill. In the town center, you’ll find many half-timbered houses, cobbled, flower-filled streets and even the Blanche Hoschedé-Monet museum, dedicated to Impressionism.
After strolling through the town and admiring the banks of the Seine, you can extend the experience in Giverny, just 5 kilometers from Vernon. It may be more touristy than its neighboring commune, but it’s still a must-see in the region. In fact, don’t hesitate to rent bicycles to travel between the two villages.
As you can see, Vernon is a little nugget less than an hour from the capital – it’s up to you!