Vétheuil, discover the picturesque village on the banks of the Seine and cradle of Monet's art

What if we went to discover Vétheuil, one of the most beautiful villages in France, the inspiration of the artist Claude Monet? Located in the regional natural park of the French Vexin, this place is a real treasure to be discovered, during a stroll with multiple discoveries along the Seine.

In the loop of the Seine, nestled in the heart of the French Vexin, lies Vétheuil, a picturesque village and a monument of French artistic history. Rich in architectural heritage, with its Notre-Dame church and historic residences, Vétheuil is best known as the home of Claude Monet from 1878 to 1881, during which time he created more than 230 paintings.

Upon discovering Vétheuil, one cannot help but be moved by the natural beauty that surrounds it. The village is set against a chalk cliff, offering spectacular views of the Seine. To take full advantage of this enchanting setting, here are some suggestions:

The free boat trip from Vétheuil to Lavacourt

Take the free weekend ferry for a mini-cruise from Vétheuil to Lavacourt, on the other bank of the Seine. The Bac de Vétheuil, a small traditional boat, offers a memorable crossing of the Seine, linking the communes of Vétheuil in the Val d'Oise and Moisson-Lavacourt in the Yvelines. It is a unique opportunity to discover the Seine from a new angle and to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The ferry is in service on Friday mornings, as well as Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, until October 15, 2023. However, it may be interrupted in the event of flooding or a drop in the level of the Seine.

The free hours :

Friday: from 10 am to 12:30 pm
Saturday, Sunday and holidays: from 10:30 am to 12:45 pm, then from 2:45 pm to 6:20 pm, with an interruption of the service between 4:30 pm and 4:45 pm.
In October, the last departure is at 5:45 pm.

The boat can accommodate up to 12 people at a time, and the crossing is free for all. It is also possible to bring bicycles, strollers and dogs on a leash, making it a perfect option for a ride with family or friends.

Discovering the church of Vétheuil

The church of Vétheuil, accessible via an imposing staircase of 50 steps, is a historical monument dating from the 16th century, dedicated to the nativity of the Holy Virgin. The construction was initiated by King Henry II of England and completed under Francis I. Inside, listed works of art, from statues to murals, tell the story of this place frequented by pilgrims. Despite some losses due to burglaries, it has kept part of its artistic treasure, testifying to the richness of its past.

The GR2 hike, from Vetheuil to La Roche-Guyon

Follow the GR2, a hiking trail that leads you to the village of La Roche-Guyon, another pearl of the French Vexin. Fromthe parking lot of the foyer rural, join the GR2 by taking the monumental stairs of the church. Then you just have to follow the indications of the GR2 until La Roche Guyon. You pass in front of the castle, you join then the road of the Crests by following the marking PR (attention with the cars). At the sign "Foret de La Roche Guyon", turn left and follow the PR marking, then left and join the GRP Vallée de l'Epte. Then cross the wood of Villers and join the starting point.

Discover the House of Claude Monet

It is in Vétheuil that the impressionist artist lived for three years with his family, and created an impressive number of paintings, many of them dedicated to the village church. You can visit Monet's house, transformed into a guest house, and discover the atmosphere of the time.

Discover the Chemin des Peintres and the Heritage Trail

Vétheuil, village du Val d'Oise - IMG 7134

Don't miss the discovery of the Chemin des Peintres in Vétheuil, an exceptional artistic and historical trail, paying tribute to the many painters who were inspired by the picturesque beauty of the village and its surroundings. Located in the French Vexin Regional Natural Park, this path is marked by 13 reproductions of paintings on enameled lava panels, installed throughout the village with the support of the Val d'Oise Department and the Region.

Among these painters, Claude Monet is undoubtedly the most famous, having contributed to the international reputation of Vétheuil through his works. Artists as varied as Caillebotte, Renoir, Riopelle and Mitchell have also immortalized this place, each with their own technique and artistic style.

This tour allows us to see Vétheuil through the eyes of these great masters of painting. In addition to the Chemin des Peintres, Vétheuil offers many other attractions, including the Heritage Trail, which reveals the treasures of the place. This path, which is marked by 12 panels, tells you the history of Vétheuil and the artists who have stayed there, such as Abel Lauvray and the American painter Joan Mitchell.

A place to rest on the banks of the Seine

The banks of the Seine in Vétheuil offer an idyllic setting for a walk or a family picnic. A former port, Vétheuil benefits from gently sloping banks. Following the dredging of the river, a large grassy bank has been created, extending the lime tree mall made famous by Claude Monet. This esplanade, moved away from the river by the modification and the digging of its bed in 1960, became a place of relaxation for the inhabitants, the walkers, the fishermen and the bowlers. For the walkers of passage, note that a truck proposes what to refresh you and restore you at the edge of water and why not, to eat a good pancake.

In short, the village of Vétheuil is a real jewel that deserves a visit. Not only for its history and its architectural heritage, but also for its exceptional natural setting and its role in the history of art. Don't wait any longer and come and discover this charming and historical place as soon as this summer 2023.