• the grandeur of the classic Renaissance chateau gardens

• the flower-filled planting of the Impressionists

• the spectacular cathedrals of Chartres, St. Denis and Rouen

• some of Europe's most contemporary ideas in garden design

• the world's foremost collection of hydrangeas, and

• we'll stroll the private garden of one of France's most accomplished horticulturists.

In Paris itself, we'll see

• the grandeur of Versailles palace, gardens, and the king's fruit and vegetable garden

• parks and avenues created during the Napoleonic era

• historic and ultra-contemporary gardens, and

• modern urban horticulture, architecture and sculpture unique in the world

Plus, you'll have two completely free days in Paris, the City of Lights!