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Normandy, France

Normandy Paris Make the most of your time in Normandy, use the information provided on this web site by clicking on the links to plan your visit.

Set to the west of French regions Ile-de-France and Picardie and to the north of Brittany, Western Loire and Central Loire, Normandy is home to well-known cities Le Havre, Caen and Rouen. On the northern peninsula is the port Cherbourg, joining Le Havre as popular points from which to enter the country. Other popular destinations include St Lo made famous during the Second World War, and Bayeux which is home the world-renowned Bayeux Tapestry. Meanwhile, at Deauville and Trouville there is La Cote Fleurie, or the Flower Coast.

The beaches of Normandy are, of course, often mentioned in the same breath as the D-Day landings which occurred on June 6 1944 when the Allies made a push through the region in an effort to force the Nazis out. The likes of St Lo were among the first towns the Allies reached after breaking through the German lines as they sought to press south and then east through France. Battles have certainly been a common theme in this part of the country from its ancient history through until the aforementioned war, while the region’s production of renowned William the Conqueror who defeated Harold at the Battle of Hastings adds further to the reputation.

NormandyAside from the history there is plenty to see and do along the coast with its fishing villages, buzzing harbours and large ports, its golden sands, watersports and wildlife, and its chalky cliffs, its arches, its islands and its excellent views. Inland, meanwhile, the countryside if full of golden plains, hedgerow which carve up the agriculture, forests, valleys, typical French chateaux and other impressive buildings. The region is also known for its thatched cottages, its green and wooded countryside, its warm temperate climate and its half-timbered cottages and farms.

The traditional Breton language is still spoken among some of the 3.2 million people living in Normandy. Indeed, old-fashioned culture still abounds what with its history of weaving, lace-making and embroidery still evident today. Locally produced traditional costumes use the above skills and are still worn at festivals and ceremonies during the year. When it comes to food and drink there are two aspects of particular note: Normandy is known for its apple brandy which comes from the Calvados region while Camembert cheese stems from the village of the same name in the division of Orne.

The World Heritage site of Mont Saint Michel cannot go unmentioned. It is placed on an island in the south-west of the region and is a popular site to visit. Other monuments and impressive buildings include the Palais Benedictine in Fecamp, the Jumieges Abbey, the Beaumesuil Chateau, the Lisieux Basilica and the Chateau Gaillard. Finally, the house of Monet is also worth a visit and is to be found in the town of Giverny to the south-west of the compartment.