When thinking about French gardens, two prominent names immediately come to mind – the formal Gardens of Versailles and the informal gardens at Giverny. These iconic landscapes showcase contrasting styles, each offering its own unique charm.
The Gardens of Versailles, located just outside Paris, are a testament to opulence and grandeur. The main axis, known as the Grand Perspective, stretches for over a mile, culminating in the magnificent Water Parterre and the famous Apollo Fountain. Immaculately trimmed hedges, neatly aligned flowerbeds, and meticulously manicured lawns create a visual spectacle that epitomizes the French formal style. Statues, fountains, and ornate marble urns punctuate the landscape, evoking a sense of regality and splendor. Gardens of this nature were meant to be viewed from above, and while walking around in them you could understand why.
In contrast to the structure of Versailles, the gardens at Giverny were made famous by the artist Claude Monet, and show a form of unorganized beauty. There are winding pathways that lead you through a harmonious mix of different flowers, water features, and lush greenery. The water garden which shows off the beautiful water lilies Monet always featured in his paintings is surrounded by a mix of trees, flowers, and bushes.
While Versailles impresses with its grand scale and symmetrical design, Giverny captivates with its whimsical arrangements and natural allure. Versailles embodies the meticulousness of French formal gardens, showcasing man’s control over nature. On the other hand, Giverny celebrates the beauty of imperfection, embracing the organic flow of plants and water, and I think this is where the true difference lies.
To me, I enjoyed the view of the formal gardens, but nothing compared to spending time walking through the flower gardens in Giverny. Many people are at odds on which is better, or which one they like more, but I think it is most important to see the beauty in each type.
