EXCURSIONS

Excursion 1: Normandy

You will begin your day in the gardens of the famous French Impressionist artist, Claude Monet. Monet's extensive gardens, including the water garden where he painted the waterlilies, are a tranquil and beautiful spot to begin your day. You might even choose to see works by American Impressionists at the museum a few steps away. After visiting Giverny, ESA travels to Lyons-la-Forêt where you will have lunch in the town square among the half-timbered buildings. Lyons-la-Forêt is a favorite spot for moviemakers, because of the preservation of historic character. Another hour in the bus and you'll be in the heart of Rouen– a town famous for its Gothic churches and medieval atmosphere. The walking tour with ESA faculty will visit the site where Joan of Arc died, the "wedding cake" Cathedral and medieval streets.

 

Excursion 2: Pierrefonds Chateau

Imagine a medieval castle defended by stone walls and watch towers– you're thinking of Pierrefonds! The castle is located in a spa town about an hour north of Paris. Originally built in the 14th century, later reduced to partial ruins by Louis XIV's army for target practice and rebuilt in the era of Napoleon III, this castle is today used in many films set in the Middle Ages. Why? No sets to build. Also, on this day's trip, we visit a quaint nearby village and also stop at the spot where World War I was ended in 1918.

 

Weekend Excursion: Alsace & Lorraine

Weekend excursion to the historic and picturesque region of Alsace and Lorraine with two nights in the charming city of Colmar, staying at a comfortable three star hotel with a welcome dinner and breakfast each day. Stops include a wine tasting and walk through the walled village of Riquewihr, a visit to an outlet to see the beautiful fabric produced in Alsace, several towns on the geranium-decorated Wine Route, and a stop in the medieval town of Eguisheim. In Colmar we take time to see the world famous Issenheim Altar and enjoy a guided walk through the charming streets of this medieval city, finishing in the area called "little Venice." On the return to Paris, we stop in Nancy, capital of Lorraine, to see its Art Museum.