Normandy

From the historic port of Dieppe to magical Mont St Michel, the Normandy coast is a natural attraction of dramatic diversity. The towering white cliffs of the Côte d’Albâtre eventually descend to the vast sandy beaches made infamous by the D-Day landings, while the Cotentin Peninsula hides sheltered, sandy bays around the craggy coastline. Along the way, elegant seaside towns have long been the favoured retreat for Parisien high society, including picturesque Honfleur and the upmarket twin resorts of Deauville and Trouville.

Rolling away from the coast, the peaceful, pastoral countryside of Normandy is a patchwork of arable fields, orchards and meadows, criss-crossed with sunken lanes and leafy hedgerows. Cattle grazing in the fields and apple-heavy boughs are a clue to the regional specialities, including famous cheeses, classic ‘tarte aux pommes’, refreshing ciders and potent Calvados brandy, although the succulent seafood is also not to be missed.

Historic Rouen is Normandy’s major city, noted for its churches and spires, half timbered houses and magnificent Gothic Cathedral, captured on canvas in every light by Monet. A visit to the impressionist artist’s house in Giverny is an inspiring highlight along with the famous, historic tapestry in the attractive town of Bayeux.

Highlights

• Deauville – stroll by the sea along the elegant esplanade, spend a day at the races and try your luck at the casino.
• Bayeux – of the town’s numerous sights, the 70-metre tapestry is a must, with 58 beautifully embroidered panels chronicling the invasion of England by William the Conqueror in 1066.
• Mont St Michel – cross the causeway to Mont St Michel and climb the narrow cobbled streets to the cliff top abbey with striking architecture and spectacular views.
• Giverny – visit the Musée Claude Monet at his former home and see the famous waterlilies for real in the flowerfilled gardens.
• The D-Day beaches – spare a moment for reflection on the D-day beaches, see the remains of the allied Mulberry harbour at Arromanches and visit the memorial museum in Caen.

Caen

Your nearest airports - Dinard and Cherbourg
Your nearest ferry ports - Cherbourg, Caen.