Whole of France is beautiful. In the South there are cities like Nice, Cannes,Marseille and North has a region such as Normandy. Its varied coastline includes white-chalk cliffs and WW2 beaches, including Omaha beach, site of famous D-day landing. Just off the coast, the rocky island of Mont Saint Micheal is topped by soaring Gothic abbey. We covered all these sites and also the city of Rouen,Etretat.We spent about 4 days in the region which was good enough to cover all beautiful sites. Here, I am sharing my 4-days itinerary for Normandy.
Day 1: Rouen
First city in our itinerary was Rouen, historical capital of Normandy France. Rouen is famous for its beautiful Norte Dame Cathedral and astronomical clock from 13th century. To admire the panoramic view of the city, you can also climb to clock tower with entry ticket. It's center is quite compact and can easily be covered by walk. Cobble street lanes and colorful timbered houses make it a perfect spot for photos.
Church of Saint Joan of Arc is a catholic church. It's shape is very unusual and quite a contrast for the surrounding with timbered house. Entry to the church is free and atmosphere inside church is very peaceful.
Next to the church stands a small market hall, evoking the ancient tradition of trade occurring in the square as long ago as Joan of Arc’s time.
Day 2: Etretat
This has to be my favorite place from Normandy. Famous for its white cliffs and blue water beaches. Its an absolute gem of Normandy. In spite of being so touristy, it doesn't disappoint you a bit. You can relax in sun by the beach (water is very cold even in summers,its Atlantic after all) or kayak under the pearl like white cliffs. For the best views of the cliffs and beach, you will have to hike a bit up further. There are several hike trails available. In low tide, its also possible to go to the base of cliffs and explore the ridges and rocky beaches below.
Day 3: Mont Saint Michel
One of the most famous site of France, Situated at just 3 hours drive from Paris or Rouen.The architecture of Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey is evidence of the mastery and expertise. It's so huge that it can be seen from far away. It's a small island and a holy site. Depending upon the time of the year,it can be surrounded by water. Its absolutely magical then. In summers, its accessible by shuttle bus but i would recommend hiking as it is all part of experience. There are plenty of spots for photos on the way. Entry to the village is free and ticket is required only if you want to visit Abbey. I would say its very touristic place but well worth a visit. Restaurant and hotel in the island is very expensive. So book your accommodation away from the island and carry your own lunch.
Day 1: Rouen
First city in our itinerary was Rouen, historical capital of Normandy France. Rouen is famous for its beautiful Norte Dame Cathedral and astronomical clock from 13th century. To admire the panoramic view of the city, you can also climb to clock tower with entry ticket. It's center is quite compact and can easily be covered by walk. Cobble street lanes and colorful timbered houses make it a perfect spot for photos.
Church of Saint Joan of Arc is a catholic church. It's shape is very unusual and quite a contrast for the surrounding with timbered house. Entry to the church is free and atmosphere inside church is very peaceful.
Next to the church stands a small market hall, evoking the ancient tradition of trade occurring in the square as long ago as Joan of Arc’s time.
Day 2: Etretat
This has to be my favorite place from Normandy. Famous for its white cliffs and blue water beaches. Its an absolute gem of Normandy. In spite of being so touristy, it doesn't disappoint you a bit. You can relax in sun by the beach (water is very cold even in summers,its Atlantic after all) or kayak under the pearl like white cliffs. For the best views of the cliffs and beach, you will have to hike a bit up further. There are several hike trails available. In low tide, its also possible to go to the base of cliffs and explore the ridges and rocky beaches below.
Etretat is mostly about beaches and cliffs but there are a few sights which you can explore such as LES JARDINS D'ETRETAT. A garden with the blend of landscape art and land art sculptures. Best time to visit the garden is in the evening when gardens are bathed in soft evening light.The garden has some magical views over the dramatic rocky Etretat coast. Entry ticket to the garden is 12.50 euro which is a bit expensive for the size of the park.
Day 4: Other famous sites of Normandy
Some parts of Normandy region of France was a battle field during world war Two. This day we dedicated to explore those sites. Most of the Normandy has no such vibes left which reminds of World war 2 times but Omaha beach and surrounding areas took us back to that time. Lots of army, army vehicles, lots of memorials, cemeteries. I could somehow imagine the older times.
Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial contains the graves of nearly 9,400 war dead, and nearly 1,600 names on the Walls of the Missing, most of whom lost their lives in the D-Day landings and ensuing operations.
Some parts of Normandy region of France was a battle field during world war Two. This day we dedicated to explore those sites. Most of the Normandy has no such vibes left which reminds of World war 2 times but Omaha beach and surrounding areas took us back to that time. Lots of army, army vehicles, lots of memorials, cemeteries. I could somehow imagine the older times.
Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial contains the graves of nearly 9,400 war dead, and nearly 1,600 names on the Walls of the Missing, most of whom lost their lives in the D-Day landings and ensuing operations.
The D-Day landings were the most vital part to liberate Europe from years of German military occupation. 60-mile coastal stretch divided into five sectors, codenamed Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah. During our travel, we visited only Omaha beach.This beach was for American troops who suffered worst on D-Day.
I was very sad after seeing these historic monuments which reminds us of the brutal history and how at times, we have failed as a human being. Having said that, I am happy that we learnt our lessons and right now we are living in the most peaceful times in the world.
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