Choose your language:
Normandy, situated in the far North, bordered by the English Channel, is one of the most attractive regions of France. Its beautifully named coasts (with names such as 'pearl', 'blossom' and 'grace') are visited by millions of tourists every year. It offers seaside resorts along hundreds of miles of fine sand, and is a popular destination for fans of sports such as sand-yachting and windsurfing, but it is first and foremost horse-country. There are numerous stud farms and tracks, and whether or not you are a gambler, the racecourse itself is well worth visiting.
As the primary region for horse-breeding in France and a world-renowned seaside resort, Deauville radiates glamour. The town is elegant and sophisticated, and without doubt perfectly symbolises the French "art de vivre".
Its luxurious residences, grand casino, villas boasting important -if slightly exuberant- architecture, and the famous Les Planches promenade have all witnessed the turn of the 20th century in this region which has always attracted important businessmen, artists and even royalty. Did you know that Coco Chanel opened her first boutique here in 1913?
Of course, the regions history goes back much further, as is evident from its celebrated Norman architecture; a mix between the Rococo and chalet styles. Its Romanesque castles, monasteries, abbeys and dungeons stand as testament to the 11th century and to the Dukes of Normandy, particularly William the Conqueror. They reflect the achievements and conquests of the famous Duke who became King of England in 1066 under the name William the 1st.
One could not travel to Normandy without visiting Caen and its residential palace. It is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe and the birthplace of the Anglo-Norman dynasty. Another real must-see is the Bayeux tapestry. Listed on UNESCOs "Memory of the World" register since 2007, it recounts the exploits of William the Conqueror and key events of the English conquest.
An important region since the 11th century, Normandy was once again at the heart of history on the 6th of June 1944 when the 'Utah' and 'Omaha' beaches were the sight of the infamous landings by Allied forces, leading to over two months of conflict which, even 65 years later, are still at the heart of current affairs.
If you are passionate about history, Normandy is like an open-air museum, housing many memorable places: trenches, artillery platforms, military graves and numerous museums telling the story of the Battle of Normandy.
At the heart of a huge bay, rising up from the largest tides in Europe, you will find the 'Gem of the West', the Mont Saint-Michel. The church, founded before the year 1000, was, along with Rome and Santiago de Compostela, one of the most important pilgrimages in the Medieval West. Today the church still remains true to its fist vocation, welcomes a huge religious community. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, this popular tourist destination now receives around 3.5 million tourists each year, from pilgrims to simple tourists.
This region unites history enthusiasts and lovers of the elegant "art de vivre" of France. We provide the ingredients to give your holiday a really unique favour and depth; a break exclusively tailored to suit your needs. All you have to do is dream and let France Romantic Travel do the rest!
