Musée Fournaise on the Impressionist island of ChatouFournaise Museum on the Impression Island
©Fournaise Museum on the Impression Island

Meet Renoir at the Musée Fournaise

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And if you had to meet one of your favourite historical figures, who would you choose? A writer like Dumas, a musician like Debussy or a painter like Renoir? Here at the Musée Fournaise, in Chatou, we invite you to meet Pierre-Auguste Renoir, the world-famous painter whose one of his finest works, “Le déjeuner des canotiers”, was painted right here! It is he, or at least his hologram, who will take you on a tour of the premises: welcome to Maison Fournaise!

Musée Fournaise in Chatou, an immersive experienceMusée Fournaise in Chatou, an immersive experience
©Musée Fournaise in Chatou, an immersive experience|OTI SGBS
Musée Fournaise in Chatou, an immersive experienceMusée Fournaise in Chatou, an immersive experience
©Musée Fournaise in Chatou, an immersive experience|OTI SGBS

    A house steeped in history

    The Maison Fournaise, a former 19th-century guinguette, has been a meeting place for many artists, writers and intellectuals. Renoir, Sisley, Maupassant and even Caillebotte met there to share moments of conviviality and inspiration. Renoir painted one of his most famous masterpieces here, Le Déjeuner des canotiers, immortalising the bright, festive spirit of the time. Today, the Maison Fournaise houses a museum that traces this fascinating history, allowing visitors to travel back in time while enjoying the artistic energy that still permeates the premises.

    Immerse yourself in the Impressionist era

    The museum’s flagship experience, Rencontre avec Renoir, is a sensory and emotional immersion in the painter’s world. You’ll go behind the scenes of his major works, and discover the historical context and anecdotes surrounding his creations. Thanks to interactive and immersive installations, you’ll be able to understand Renoir’s unique techniques, feel the vibrant light of his canvases, and even imagine yourself at the heart of his bucolic scenes. This experience invites you to take a fresh look at Impressionism and the creative energy of the period.

    Musée Fournaise on the Ile des Impressionnistes in ChatouMusée Fournaise on the Ile des Impressionnistes in Chatou
    ©Musée Fournaise on the Ile des Impressionnistes in Chatou

      A lively, friendly place

      The Musée Fournaise is not just about history and exhibitions. The Maison Fournaise also houses a restaurant where you can enjoy fine cuisine while admiring the Seine. It’s the perfect place to extend your visit and feel the atmosphere of yesteryear. In summer, the charm is further enhanced by cruises and walks along the Seine. These activities allow you to discover the landscapes that have inspired so many artists, and enjoy a bucolic interlude just a stone’s throw from Paris.