Katharine: a riot of colour in gardens in France and England

Our recent travels included visits to Monet's home in Giverny and to Gravetye Manor in Sussex.

Here are a few photos to compare and contrast the difference in the gardens - or, what difference, you might say?  The water lilies weren't yet in bloom in the lake at Giverny, and the rhododendrons were only just beginning;  but the riot of colour from the tulips (including the now-popular deep purple/black tulips) was stunning. Both gardens were well laid-out - but not formal, and the plantings made for a lush landscape in both places. 

Tulips in Giverny in April

Tulips at Gravetye in May (3 weeks later)

Monet's home

Gravetye Manor

Giverny 

.............  and Gravetye Manor: 

Gravetye Manor is a hotel, and has an (unphotographed) walled garden which sources all the vegetables for the restaurant. 

Gravetye - less well known than Giverny - is surrounded by rolling parklands in Sussex.