Giverny's dire shortage of hotels is made up for by several enticing, stylish, and affordable B&Bs set up in village homes; among the best is Le Clos Fleuri, the domaine of Danielle and Claude Fouche, a charming couple (she speaks English thanks to years spent in Australia). Set in a large garden, with Giverny's picturesque church steeple looming in the background, and just 600 yards from Monet's estate and a bit farther from the Musée Américain, Le Clos beckons enticingly. Inside, three sweet and tranquil accommodations (all with their own entrance) welcome weary travelers: the "Poppies" and "Waterlilies" rooms have Louis Philippe-style beamed ceilings and both overlook the house gardens, while "Clematis" has a very dramatic cathedral ceiling. The couple adore gardening and are fonts of information about touring the immediate area. Needless to say, book in advance. Pros: colorful oasis in the heart of the village, gardening is in the air. Cons: no a/c; no pets.
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