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Road trip in Normandy with an electric car
There’s nothing quite like the freedom of setting out on a driving adventure to discover a new destination. With an electric vehicle (EV), road trips require a little more planning and mapping out the route beforehand. Normandy – arguably one of France’s most picturesque region to drive – is also one of the country’s most...
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Top evening markets in Normandy
In summer, we love to stay out late! The markets we’ve chosen all have that holiday flavour in common. They all showcase local crafts and produce. Located by the sea or in coastal towns, these night markets often feature concerts and entertainment. Summer Evening Markets in La Manche A few kilometers from Coutances and its...
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The best places to eat oysters on the coast of Normandy
As coastal Normandy is home to some of the finest oyster beds in France, the region is brimming with raw bars, seafood restaurants and oyster farms that serve these local delicacies in style! So where are the best places in Normandy to eat oysters, you may ask? We’ve hand-picked our favourite hot spots to taste...
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Food festivals in Normandy
We’re all foodies in Normandy, so it’s no surprise our vast variety of food festivals are some of the best in France! Join us for mouth-watering regional cuisine, street food, artisanal produce, chef demos, tastings, live music and entertainment. Here are all our favourite food festivals taking place throughout the year. Mortagne-au-Perche’s Black Pudding Festival...
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Normandy’s finest hotels with sea views
How about spending a night or more in a dream hotel? It doesn’t have to be luxurious, just have that special something that makes all the difference: a breathtaking view that makes you want to get up at the crack of dawn to gaze at the horizon and the ever-changing reflections on the water for...
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An overnight stay in historic D-Day accommodation
On 6 June 1944, soldiers from all over the world landed on the Normandy coast. A number of hotels and farmhouses were liberated from the Occupation and sometimes even hosted emblematic figures of the D-Day Landings. You too can stay in a selection of these places marked by the history of the D-DAY.
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Restaurants by the sea
Convivial, connected, chic. The restaurants that we have picked out for you have one thing in common, they all have wonderful views of the sea – or are sited right over the sea. The perfect places to savour the moment. 1. The epitome of cool, opposite an island Have you ever dreamt of eating right...
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Beautiful 5-star hotels in Normandy
From the Mont-Saint-Michel to Rouen, via Caen, Cabourg, Honfleur and Deauville, follow us on a tour of some of Normandy’s finest 5-star hotels. With a special mention for those you can treat yourself to with a Secret Box gift. Hôtel Barrière – Le Normandy Deauville Deauville us undoubtedly the most glamorous destination in Normandy. Roll...
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Sleep in a medieval castle or mansion
It’s possible to sleep in a fortified castle in Normandy! A land of medieval epics, our region has preserved a wealth of castles with their typical style and architecture. Some of them, particularly well preserved or renovated, now offer unique accommodation.
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The most beautiful beaches in Normandy
Whether it’s the endless sand beaches of Manche, the Chausey Islands, the rugged coastline of the Cotentin, the chic or family-friendly seaside resorts of Calvados or the cliff-lined pebble beaches of Seine-Maritime, Normandy’s beaches are some of the most wonderfully diverse you’ll find in France. Beaches in Normandy With over 620km of coastline, Normandy boasts...
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The return of scallop fishing boats to Port-en-Bessin
The picturesque fishing port of Port-en-Bessin in the Calvados département is built around a sheltered natural harbour between two cliffs. The town has an unmatched reputation for providing some of the area’s best scallops, and visiting between 1 October and 15 May is the perfect time to experience the ultimate local spectacle, the return of...
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Normandy biscuit makers and factories
What would a trip to Normandy be without a few gourmet stops? We all know Normandy for its apple and dairy products, but did you know that we also make yummy biscuits? Discover our selection of Norman biscuit makers, ideal for a sweet break. La Biscuiterie de l’Abbaye Do you know where the sablé biscuit...
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The Normandy Cheese Route
In Normandy, all four of the cheeses boasting the coveted PDO certification (‘AOC’ in French) quality label are also villages – Camembert, Livarot, Pont-l’Evêque and Neufchâtel. Visit these villages on the Normandy Cheese Route, find out how those French famous cheeses are made and enjoy some tastings along the way! Camembert, Livarot, Neufchâtel and Pont-L’Evêque...
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A weekend on the Normandy Cheese Route
Camembert, Livarot, Pont-l’Evêque and Neufchâtel – the four famous PDO-certified Normandy cheeses. You may have tasted them, but have you ever visited the towns and villages they were named after? Why not do it this year? To make life as cheesy as possible for you, we’ve put together a three-day itinerary complete with some (optional)...
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5 fun family-friendly activities
Normandy is filled with countless family-friendly attractions sure to be a hit with kids of all ages, and parents too. We’re talking breathtaking coasts, golden sandy beaches, fascinating historic sites and lush rolling hills full of adventure. If you want to skip the touristy stuff in favour of new experiences that connect your kids with...
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Normandy’s top antiques fairs
Normandy’s antique fairs always promise exciting treasure hunts, where professional antiques buyers and enthusiasts are spoilt for choice! We’ve compiled our favourite five antiques fairs to visit during your trip to Normandy, whether you love antiques and vintage shopping or just enjoy a good old rummage. Rouen Place Saint-Marc antiques fair Along with the Rouen...
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Veggie restaurants in Normandy: our selection
It can be a challenge finding a veggie restaurant in France, but here in Normandy, we’ve done all the research to save you the hassle! Here are our five favourite restaurants across the region that specialise in vegetarian and/or vegan cuisine – bon appétit ! Greedy Guts in Caen Greedy Guts has established itself as...
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Top spas in Normandy
You deserve to be pampered, so why not treat yourself to a spa day during your holiday in Normandy? Dip into our selection of simply stunning spas across the region and find the perfect retreat to relax, unwind and escape from the busy humdrum of daily life. Thalasso Deauville by Algotherm (Calvados) In order to...
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A dog-friendly stay on the Côte de Nacre
Normandy is known for its wonderfully pristine beaches. Some of the best can be found in Calvados, between Ouistreham and Courseulles-sur-mer and what’s better still is that a number of them allow dogs to stretch their legs and get a swim in too. This emblematic coastal destination known as the “ Côte de Nacre” is the...
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Food courts and covered markets
Visitors and locals come to do a little shopping, grab a bite to eat or have a drink with friends. Inspired by American food courts and food halls, gourmet food halls are becoming increasingly popular in Normandy. Les Halles Agrivin – Biltoki in Rouen Inaugurated in Rouen in November 2022, the Halles Agrivin – Biltoki...
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Sleep in a château in Normandy!
Have you ever dreamed of spending a night or more in a beautiful chateau? Follow us on a tour of some of Normandy’s best hotels and rooms located in beautiful historic buildings. They all have that special something, with traditional or contemporary décor, a royal breakfast or even a swimming pool. Perfect for an unforgettable...
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Rouen (Unesco Creative City for Gastronomy) and its top restaurants
End 2021, Rouen’s culinary creativity and sustainable development efforts were rewarded. Rouen received the ultimate accolade: it became the first French city to be recognised by UNESCO for its gastronomy. Follow us on a tour of some of Rouen’s best restaurants. What exactly is the ‘UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy’ label? To date, Rouen is...
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Saint James, a timeless favourite
Saint James is named after the little Norman village where it is located. And it’s an institution here. Since 1889, it has been home to a woollen navy knitwear and cotton sailor suits factory. And you can visit it! Step inside one of the largest knitting parks in Europe. The meticulous skills of master knitters...
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Calvados tasting at the Busnel distillery
Mention Normandy and its food springs to mind, alongside calvados apple brandy, one of the region’s best-known products. The region’s oldest calvados distillery, Busnel in the town of Cormeilles, celebrates its 200th birthday this year so we went along to to see what all the fuss was about! A family affair Two hundred years of...
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Dieppe Market, France’s finest!
In 2020, Dieppe market was officially voted France’s finest market on French national television! Held every Saturday morning, this market’s vast array of tempting treats, whether hoisted from the sea or harvested from the land, is an absolute must for any lover of fresh local produce. Crowned ‘France’s most beautiful market’ in 2020 More than...
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Top golf club restaurants in Normandy
Normandy boasts some world-class golf courses, though some golfers might be more looking forward to the post-round meal than the golf itself in a region so renowned for its food! If you’re a golfer and a foodie, here’s our selection of Normandy’s best golf club restaurants guaranteeing delicious cuisine, beautiful views and unforgettable dining experiences. Restaurant at the Golf d’Etretat Whether...
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Best places to have a picnic in Normandy
Sure, you could have a picnic at a motorway service station, but we can go one better! Here are all of our favourite places where you can enjoy breathtaking views while you eat! 1. A view of the Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay You’ve bought some local fresh products from a local village in the Bay...
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Our top tips for your romantic weekend in Normandy
How about a break with your loved-one, right now, without further ado? We’ll whisk you away to a chateau, barge or thatched cottage in Normandy for a romantic weekend. Where to go for a weekend away? You’ll be spoilt for choice!If you want to be by the seaside, the Flowered Coast (Côte Fleurie) is a...
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The Alabaster Coast by campervan
To celebrate the first day of my retirement, my significant other and I decided to rent a campervan for four days so we could explore the Alabaster Coast in Normandy. Equipped with just a small suitcase, a camping table and some bedding, we headed off on the first of what we hope will be many...
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A special New Year’s Eve in Normandy
Looking for a perfect New Year’s Eve getaway? Avoid over-crowded New Year’s Eve parties and try something a little different. Normandy offers plenty of alternatives to the stereotypical end of year bash, so read on if you’re after a new way to see in the new year! Unusual places to stay for an original New...
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Normandy’s most beautiful sunsets
Whether you’re taking a romantic evening stroll, enjoying a drink with friends or are out and about with the family, no-one can resist a beautiful sunset by the seaside or in the countryside. Here are some of our finest for you to factor into your holiday to Normandy, including sunrises too! Sunrise in La Manche...
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Mushroom foraging weekends in the Orne
In the Orne département, we love the good life, reaping the fruits of the earth and enjoying them! Discover the autumn tradition of foraging for mushrooms in this part of Normandy, which goes back many generations. If you go down in the woods today… All booted up with baskets and ready to go, head off...
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Things to do on a hot summer’s day in Normandy
There’s nothing like Normandy in summertime. Warm weather is one thing but every so often we do get a heatwave! So how can you beat the heat and enjoy your time in Normandy during a heatwave on your holidays? Here are our top ideas for activities that will keep you cool as the temperatures soar....
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Artists’ gardens
The “garden painter” Claude Monet explored how gardens could inspire art. In such crafted idylls as Giverny, poetry is everywhere, bringing together paint and plant. Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny At Giverny, Monet had an army of gardeners to hone his garden in the ways he sought to perfect his art. Let’s imagine it’s 1920...
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Fashion in Normandy
Colourful favorites coupled with seasonal core shades come together to create a palette of beautiful colours in Normandy that has inspired great Impressionist painters and world-famous fashion designers alike. Fashion lovers are in for a treat walking in the footsteps of the finest fashion designers on planet earth. Coco Chanel and Deauville’s boardwalk Take a...
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Top markets in Normandy
To experience Normandy at its most authentic, look no further than the local market, the earlier the better, whatever the day. Once, sometimes twice a week. Meet the people, try out your French, purchase fresh local produce or get a buzz from just browsing! Every town and village will have a website with information on...
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6 places for top shopping in Normandy
Love shopping? Want to know where the best places are to shop in Normandy? From modern shopping centres and high street names to narrow lanes lined with beautiful boutiques and independent shops, Normandy has it all. Deauville, Rouen, Le Havre and Caen are some of best places to shop til you drop, not forgetting our designer outlets! 1. Deauville, a shopper’s paradise It’s...
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The best beach bars in Normandy
In Normandy, bars and beaches go together! Here’s a selection of some of our favourite watering holes. The Goéland Plage It’s hardly surprising that this bar has been classified by the Guardian newpaper as one of the top ten beach bars in France! The Goéland Plage is in Réville, and is a former German bunker...
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The best homemade ice cream and where to find it
You’re in Normandy in the heat of summer, and that urgent and inevitable question arises: where can you find the best ice cream? Let us help! The crème de la crème in Honfleur! This story began when Philippe et Isabelle Cocagne, milk producers based in the Eure, started coming to Honfleur (Calvados) to sell their...
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Best swimming pools in Normandy
For most of us, there is nothing more refreshing on holidays than taking a dip in the cooling waters of a beautiful swimming pool. We’ve put together a collection of the most spectacular pools across Normandy to inspire you to start planning your next getaway. Enjoy! Granville’s sea water swimming pool Don’t miss the chance...
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Accommodation that’s out of the ordinary
Want to stay somewhere a bit different? Enjoy a stay at some of the most unique and extraordinary places in Normandy! From a safari lodge in a zoo and a calvados barrel on the Cider Route to an ancient fort overlooking the sea, there’s so many unusual accommodation options just waiting to be discovered.
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Camembert in Normandy
Normandy boasts many different landscapes and local cuisine accompanies each one. We’re off to find out about traditional cheese-making at the Durand cheese dairy, and try out their Camembert of course! Artisanal ladle-served Camembert We strive to keep to the paths of righteousness, but temptation is all around in Normandy, so we have to give...
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Bohin France: a Norman company between tradition and modernity
Mr Didier Vrac has recently announced his retirement after more than a quarter century with the company: 27 years precisely, of which 20 years as a CEO. He is ready to pass the management on to the next generation. His successors, Audrey Régnier, currently director of the museum and her husband are very proud to take on the challenge of leading the business and perpetuate the success story of the last sewing needle and...
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Cluizel: a Norman artisan chocolatier famed for excellence
Holidays are meant to be a time for indulgence. Well, you’ve heard of wine tours and culinary travel, why not chocolate tourism? Meet Marc Cluizel, the manager of the chocolate factory he opened with his wife Marcelle back in 1947, in Damville in the Eure department of Normandy. A must for chocolate lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth. What makes the Cluizel chocolate factory so special? “Contrary to popular belief, chocolatiers do not make their own...
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Secrets of the distillery
En France et au-delà de nos frontières, le cidre, le poiré, le Calvados ou encore la Bénédictine sont réputés et très appréciés. On vous emmène faire un tour dans les grandes distilleries de Normandie, pour percer à jour les secrets de fabrication.
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Uncover the secrets of apple brandy at the Calvados Experience Museum
Discover one of Normandy’s latest major attractions in Pont-l’Évêque. Opened in 2018, this immersive museum is devoted to calvados apple brandy and the secrets of its production. It brilliantly combines audio, visual and multi-sensory effects to allow all visitors, young and old, an educational, enlightening glimpse into the culture of this traditional spirit, and Normandy’s...
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Visiting the real umbrellas of Cherbourg
In the spotlight of the popular movie Les Parapluies de Cherbourgfeaturing the famous French actress Catherine Deneuve, a young entrepreneur, aged 22 at the time, embraced the trend. In 1986, Jean-Pierre Yvon founded a factory in the centre of Cherbourg to produce a key item of any wardrobe – a trusty umbrella. Le Parapluie de Cherbourg brand now thrives under the management of his son, Charles Yvon. Quality guaranteed ‘My father’s ambition...
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The Normandy Cider Route
To the east of Caen, the Cider Route is a 25 mile signposted trail that criss-crosses the Pays d’Auge down picturesque country lanes connecting the villages of Beuvron-en-Auge (one of the ‘most beautiful villages in France’), Cambremer, Bonnebosq and Beaufour-Druval. Along the way, you have the choice of stopping off at over twenty cider farms!...
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Fish markets in Normandy
Normandy is France’s second sea fishing region and is even first for shellfish. This status is due not only to its 600 km of coastline, but also to its 2,000 fishermen and its fleet of 600 boats. Follow us to the quaysides of Normandy’s fishing ports in search of the freshest fish, shellfish and seafood....
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Accessible beaches
From the Mont-Saint-Michel to Le Tréport, the Normandy coast stretches for almost 600 kilometres. 12 beaches have now been awarded the Handiplage label and developments will continue over the coming years to better meet the criteria for accessible tourism. The Handiplage Label in Normandy The Handiplage Label is awarded to beaches with equipment and facilities...
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Restaurants with a view!
We all dream of having lunch or dinner in a magical setting. From the Bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel to Etretat, from the Chausey Islands to Dieppe, we will take you on a tour of our selection of restaurants with a real Wow factor! Overlooking the Bay Let’s begin with one of the most beautiful places...
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Normandy cooking classes
The kitchen is where flavours and ideas come together, a place for sharing and conviviality. What about taking a few cooking lessons in Normandy to impress the crowds? We’ve come up with seven regional addresses where you can discover the secrets of Norman cuisine. Je cuisine mon Jardin (Eure) Let’s start our journey in Conches-en-Ouche,...
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Unveiling the secrets of the Trou Normand
Originating from the verdant countryside of Normandy, le Trou Normand (literally, “a Norman hole”) is a delightful custom that embodies the rich cultural heritage and gastronomic pleasures that France is renowned for! This french culinary tradition involves serving a small glass of Calvados, local apple brandy, or Calvados-soaked apple sorbet between courses. More than a...
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Top dog-friendly hotels
What could be more fun than letting your dog loose on the beach or chilling out on a terrace with man’s best friend? Here’s our section of hotels where you and your canine companion will both receive a warm welcome, safe in the knowledge that you can enjoy each other’s company in peace and tranquillity....
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Top dog-friendly restaurants
Fancy eating out but don’t want to leave your dog at the gîte? No problem – we’ve put together a list of restaurants that LOVE dogs. No need to thank us, it’s just what we do…. 1. Ferme de la Rançonnière Behind a gateway lies the magnificent square courtyard around which sit the beautiful buildings...
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Dog-friendly holidays in Seine-Eure, the land between two rivers
Searching for the pawfect dog-friendly destination for your next trip to France? Look no further! With stunning natural landscapes, beautiful walks and abundance of pet friendly accommodation, a holiday in the Seine-Eure county of Normandy means you don’t have to leave anyone behind. Located between the cities of Rouen and Evreux, not far from Paris,...
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A journey back through time with TimeTravel!
Timetravel Corp is the first travel agency in the solar system to take you on a journey through time! Seen from the year 2069 it accompanies you in a voyage of discovery through different eras, from the most ancient to the most recent, thanks to the best that current technologies can offer. With the help...
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The secrets of a real farmhouse Camembert
Deep in the heart of the Domfront bocage (hedgerow country), you’ll find Champ Secret cheese farm, ready and raring to teach you how to make some of the best farmhouse camembert in Normandy. Cheesy know-how So far, three generations have worked at Champ Secret, which was set up in 1990. In 2000, owners Patrick and Francine’s mission to...
