Garden Tours in France

France had great medieval and renaissance gardens, few of which survive. In the seventeenth century France took the lead in making Baroque gardens. The power of these gardens was so great that their shadow lasted for over two centuries. In the last years of the twentieth century, France began making great public parks and highly original small gardens. It has always been a country of great horticultural skills.

A number of British and American operators run tours to French gardens and they are very convenient. Northern France is much better served than Southern or Western France. In the Paris region there is an excellent public transport system. Elsewhere in France the train system is good but many of the great gardens are in rural areas with no trains and infrequent bus services. Fortunately, car hire is easy and the roads are good.

Escorted Garden Tours in France

3
nights

The Genius of Monet, departing 9th and 18th July 2025

Claude Monet gave French Impressionism its name and France its best-loved garden: Giverney. The tour includes Monet's Garden (pictured left), the Orangerie Museum, Chateau de Chantilly and the market town of Senlis.

Photograph by Selena N. B. H.