Normandy and the Normandy Landing Beaches

Arrival to the coastal town of Honfleur, if you have time explore this pretty town. Honfleur is a Gem and brimming with art and history, on the south bank of the estuary of the Seine river, Honfleur was a strategic port before becoming an important trading harbour in the 16th century. During the 17th century, Honfleur was the starting point for many navigators for journeys to the new world; Brazil, Newfoundland and Quebec. From that rich past, almost everything is preserved including churches, the old port, its bell-tower, warehouses, 500 hundred years old buildings and cobblestone streets which are all a real treasure.

Today’s loop walk takes you through the old part of Honfleur and the “Côte de Grace Hill” for a stunning view over the Seine estuary.  On top of the hill stands the old chapel “Notre dame de grace”  which is said to protect all sailors and fishermen! Once a year, locals walk up the hill for a celebration in the chapel. This tradition still takes place today.

Further west you walk through oak and beech woods before reaching the Village of Pennedepie. The walking trail takes you to a farm specialising in Cider production, Calvados (Apple brandy). Then past the village of Barneville la Bertran you go through farmland before walking down Honfleur again.

At around 9 am you will be picked you up for a private transfer. On the way, you will stop the market town of Pont-l’Evèque so you can buy your picnic lunch. Today’s walk in the heart of the “Pays d’Auge” you won’t find any restaurants or cafés for lunch. This is a land of apple orchards, cows, isolated farms and hamlets. Your destination is  Beuvron-en-Auge one of the prettiest villages in Normandy where you will be staying for 2 nights.

Note: Your transfer takes you to the village of Bourgeauville, the entire walk is 21km. If you don’t feel like doing that much, you will be dropped off in the next village for an 11km walk.

Today’s loop is the real experience of rural Normandy to its best. Horse breeding areas with endless stud farms are along the way and the village of Cambremer is halfway. This pretty and authentic village is still involved in cheese and cider production. It is well recommended to sample the produce!

First, there is a private transfer after breakfast of around 1 hour to Arromanches which is also known as Port Wilson. You have plenty of time to visit the amazing Mulberry Harbor and the museum. In Arromanches you will find all sort of places for lunch, we’ll give you some recommendations for the best seafood restaurants. After that, you start walking along Gold Beach on top of the cliff, through Longue-sur-mer and the big German battery which is there. Today’s walk ends up to the fishing village of Port en Bessin where you will be staying 2 nights.

Today’s loop takes you further west to Colleville-sur-mer and the impressive American War Cemetery. From there you can walk down to Omaha Beach. The trail back is through farmland

You walk inland through the heart of the Bessin area with orchards, green pastures and great granite mansions and manors.  Arriving Bayeux, our route takes you through the British War cemetery and Commonwealth memorial. On the way to your hotel, in the centre of town, you will pass the great cathedral. We also recommend the visit to the famous tapestry relating the battle of Hastings. It is an unbelievable piece of art.

Depart after breakfast.