10x highlights and history in Normandy

Normandy, in northern France is known for its rich past. From its invasion beaches and historic towns to world-famous ancient works of art and buildings. Add to this the beautiful chalk cliffs, laid-back seaside resorts, flowering gardens and cosy villages and you will have a wonderful holiday. Curious about all the highlights of Normandy? You can read about them below.

1.    Magical Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is a magical rock island that seems straight out of a fairy tale. The soaring church rises high above the water and seems to float. Although this medieval island lies on the border between Brittany and Normandy, the spectacular tidal range means the water can rise up to 15 metres. You can reach the medieval island via the long footbridge by bus or on foot, but be careful not to get your feet wet...
The peninsula is a popular spot among pilgrims. The centuries-old abbey invites you to explore its history. Settle down in the cosy Grand Rue or take the tourist route along the defences to the top, with beautiful views. The literal highlight is the La Merveille, dating back to the 13th century and known for its square green courtyard and impressive columns. You get fantastic views of the bay - and of Normandy - from here.

2.    Remembering D-Day

When you arrive at one of Normandy's five invasion beaches, you can hardly help but be quiet. D-Day started here on 6 June 1944. On this day, the Allies invaded the country via the beaches to liberate France and Europe from German occupation. The actual liberation lasted a long time, until 25 August. The liberation cost the lives of over 425 thousand soldiers, and the images of the Allied soldiers marching determinedly up the beach still make a big impression. 
There are several memorial sites, including the Normandy American Cemetery at Omoha Beach, in Colleville-sur-Mer. An important memorial site with a huge number of graves. A visit to this historical monument is almost unmissable.

3.    The historical city of Rouen 

The city of Rouen is full of history, art and charm. The place has a rich past, thanks in part to France's national heroine, Joan of Arc. Joan fought against the English during the Hundred Years' War and cleverly managed to liberate the city of Orleans. She was eventually imprisoned by the English and condemned. 
The French speak highly of her courage. As such, you will find several memorial sites in the city, such as the Historial Jeanne d'Arc museum and a church dedicated to her. At the Église Sainte-Jeanne-d'Arc, you will find a memorial on the spot where Joan's life ended. 
Rouen is known for its narrow streets, medieval centre, beautiful half-timbered houses and the Gros-Horloge, an ancient astronomical clock. In addition, the Cathédrale Notre-Dam is the city's centrepiece, with Gothic influences.

4.    The white cliffs of Étretat 

When you think of Normandy, you probably think of the chalk cliffs of the fishing village of Étretat. The cliffs stand out for their impressive white colour, robustness and the greenery that has formed against the white pebbly beaches and rocky outcrops. The chalk cliffs were formed millions of years ago from sediment, skeletons and marine animals that compressed into a sturdy relief. Against the clear blue waters of the Atlantic, the sleek white cliffs stand out beautifully.
Some of the rock formations have specific names. For instance, you can climb the stairs to get to the top of “the elephant rock”. The rock owes its naa, to the arch resembling an elephant's trunk. You also have the L'Aiguille: a sharp rock in the shape of a needle and other unusual rock formations such as La Manneporte and Falaise d'Amont.

5.    Picturesque Honfleur

Honfleur is a cosy and charming town at the mouth of the Seine, with an idyllic port, quaint houses and nice eateries. The town is located opposite Le Havre. You drive into town via the Pont de Normandy, one of the longest suspension bridges in Europe. The harbour, the Vieux Bassin, is notable for the many (fishing) boats moored side by side. With the colourful half-timbered houses surrounding it, Honfleur is a beautiful French picture. Not surprisingly, Honfleur was an inspiration for many artists such as Boudin and Monet. 
Next to the port, you'll find St Catherine's Church, known for its wooden construction and furnishings. Wander the narrow streets filled with art or enjoy a seafood dish on the terrace.

6.    The Bayaux carpet

Bayaux is known for its many churches, of which Bayeux Cathedral is the largest. This cathedral comes from the 11th century and is built in Gothic style. It is the centrepiece of the city. Yet the church is not the city's only attraction. The adjacent Musée de la Tapisserie is also worth a visit.
Here you will find the Bayeux Tapestry, a work of art from the Middle Ages no less than 70 metres long. The tapestry depicts the Norman conquest of England, in the year 1066. Like a comic strip, it tells the story of the conquest, with knights on horses attacking the city in the Battle of Hastings.

7.    The rich history of Caen

The city of Caen also has a rich history. It is the capital of Lower Normandy and played an important role in World War II. The city is home to the impressive Mémorial de Caen war museum. In this museum you will learn more about Normandy during the war. Information about D-Day, the Battle of Normandy and the Cold War can also be found here. Moreover, you can take a look at the underground bunker that was used during the war. 
Apart from the war memories, Caen has an atmospheric city centre with the abbey church as its centrepiece, founded by William the Conqueror. But the medieval Château de Caen is also worth a visit.

8.    The flower coast: Côte Fleurie

The Côte Fleurie is also considered the flower coast of Normandy. Here you can relax on the wide sandy beaches or in the picturesque seaside resorts. Of course, here you will find the colourful flower gardens that characterise the region. The most famous places on the Côte Fleurie are Trouville-sur-Mer and Deauville.
Deauville has a luxurious feel due to the many million-dollar villas, large casinos and chic hotels built there. Trouville-sur-Mer exudes an authentic atmosphere and is known for its many seafood restaurants where you can enjoy all that is fresh from the sea. Green landscapes and small villages complete the Côte Fleurie coast.

9.    Giverny and Monet's Gardens

If you know Monet's works, you probably also know the image of the Japanese bridge and the pond with the water lilies. The picturesque village of Giverny was the inspiration for this painting and was Monet's hometown at the same time. 
A founder of Impressionism, Monet was a master at painting the details of the gardens. The gardens are open to the public today. Stroll under arches full of flowers and visit Monet's house, full of vibrant colours and details. Giverny is also home to the Musée des Impressionnismes, where you can learn more about Impressionism.
Tip: Visit Monet's gardens in spring and summer to see the flowers and plants in full bloom.

10.    The natural beauty of Suisse Normande

In the south of Normandy you will find the region of Suisse Normande, a region much like Switzerland - although the hills here are no higher than 300 metres. Special valleys and meandering rivers characterise the area. Nature lovers such as hikers, cyclists, climbers and water sports enthusiasts can try their luck in this challenging area. 
There are numerous hiking trails varying in length. But you can also discover the area by car, for example by following the 65-kilometre-long route de La Suisse Normande. The River Orne is perfect for kayaking and canoeing, and viewpoints such as the Rochers d'Oëtre and Rochers de la Houle provide fantastic views of the area.

Curious about the highlights of Normandy? Book your holiday home with Basic Travel today and discover the invasion beaches, historic towns and impressive limestone cliffs of Normandy.