Rouen is the region’s largest city. Make for the Rue du Gros-Horloge, a narrow street spanned by a huge elaborately decorated 14th century clock. Tall, timbered buildings overhang the street which leads to the old market, the Place de Vieux Marche. It was here that Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in May 1431. Don’t forget to visit the cathedral – it’s truly magnificent.
Sandy Beaches and Great Food
Normandy is famous for its sandy beaches and, with its small fishing villages, historic cities and wonderful food, is also a foodie’s paradise. It is especially noted for its cream, cheese, cider and Calvados, the brandy distilled from cider. These ingredients are central to much of the traditional cooking in the region. Crepes, both sweet and savoury are for lunch or a snack. Try a seafood platter – fabulous!
Visit Nearby Giverny and Honfleur
About thirty miles from Rouen is Giverny where the Impressionist painter Monet lived and where he lived and created the famous and much painted lily ponds. The gardens are open to the public.
Also close to Rouen is Honfleur, a charming port town. Stroll around the ancient harbour, with its colourful boats overlooked by tall, narrow houses. St. Catherine’s church can be found on the central and is built entirely of wood.
Historic Seaside Town of Deauville
A short drive along the coast is Deauville. This grand old seaside town has a wide sandy beach with a wooden boardwalk running the length of it and an old-fashioned casino. It’s fun to walk the length of the boardwalk and if you are in need of some retail therapy. Browse in the town’s many fashionable shops.
Second World War - D-Day Beaches
Many visitors come to Normandy to visit the D-Day beaches, which were stormed by the allies - Americans, British and Canadians – during the Second World War. At Arrolmanches-les-Bains you can see the remains of the ancient harbour installed by the allies and at Longues-sur-Mer, well preserved gun batteries crown the cliffs.
Don’t Miss
Don’t leave Normandy without visiting Mont St. Michel, a breathtaking abbey and medieval village perched on a pinnacle of granite in a vast expanse of sand. Another must is the historic town of Bayeux and its famous tapestry which measures a gigantic 230 ft and dates from around 1067. Embroidered in woollen threads, it tells the story of the invasion of England by William the Conqueror in 1066. Leave plenty of time to admire it.
France is the second largest country in Europe, after the Ukraine. Roads are good and it is very easy to get around. Travelling by car is easy and they drive on the same side of the road as in North America and most other countries, apart from Britain and her ex colonies.
Cathy Smith - I have Miss McGinn to thank for my becoming a writer. I was in her class for only two years from age nine to eleven. In what we called ...
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