Locally made products offer a distinctive charm and authenticity, a quality increasingly cherished by travelers seeking meaningful connections with their destinations. Normandy shines as a beacon of artisanal excellence, where centuries-old skills continue to thrive. From flax weaving and copper work to stained glass artistry, half-timbered architecture, and its literary heritage, Normandy proudly showcases its exceptional savoir-faire, making it a must-visit destination for those who value artistry and tradition.
Sectors of Excellence in Normandy
Gastronomy and Local Products
Butter, cream, and cider-based products. Around 20 local specialties and exceptional products are protected by designations such as AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée), AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée), and IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée), ensuring their authenticity, quality, and strong ties to the region’s unique terroir. This guarantees that each product reflects Normandy’s rich culinary heritage.
The Art of Craftsmanship
Craftsmanship flourishes in Normandy, thanks to the dedication of professionals who share a passion for excellence, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. The region boasts nearly 2,000 artisans and 54 living heritage companies (Entreprises du patrimoine vivant ), which are enterprises committed to preserving traditional skills and techniques. These companies showcase a diverse range of expertise, from fashion and tableware to decorative arts. Each artisan contributes to a vibrant tapestry of creativity, making Normandy a hub of exceptional craftsmanship that continues to thrive and inspire.
Other Innovative Sectors of Excellence
Normandy is emerging as an innovative region across a multitude of sectors, from industrial and digital realms to health, mobility, and energy. This dynamic region fosters a spirit of creativity and collaboration, attracting visionaries and pioneers dedicated to pushing boundaries and driving progress. With its rich heritage and commitment to sustainable development, Normandy is not only shaping the future of these industries but also setting an inspiring example for others to follow, proving that tradition and innovation can harmoniously coexist.
Discovering Normandy in a different way
Our selection of Normandy Experiences showcasing Local Crafts
Normandy Experiences are unique local activities that will bring depth and meaning to your journey. Meet passionate and inspiring Normans along the way as you explore Normandy off the beaten path
Ideas for Outings and Visits
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…
