Press & Media – The Canadian Remembrance Route

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The Canadian Remembrance Route in a nutshell

From the trenches of the First World War to the D-Day landings on 6 June 1944, including the Dieppe Raid, the Canadian Remembrance Route pays tribute to the 500,000 Canadian soldiers who fought valiantly to restore freedom to the French people on two occasions during the 20th century. Through the memorial sites it traverses, this route not only commemorates their sacrifices but also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds forged between Canada and France in the pursuit of liberty. Each stop along the way offers a chance to reflect on the courage and resilience of those who fought for a brighter future, making the journey as much about remembrance as it is about history.

Every year, thousands of Canadians visit the sites of the First and Second World Wars in Normandy and the Hauts-de-France. For many, these visits are a journey in the footsteps of their ancestors, a pilgrimage that has endured for several generations in Canada. This tradition is essential for preserving the memory of those who fought and sacrificed. For others, it represents a symbolic journey that goes beyond mere remembrance. It is a voluntary civic act to honour these sacrifices while deepening their understanding of this unique chapter in Canadian history that unfolded on French soil.

Crafting this itinerary from Northern France to the Normandy beaches fulfills a deep-seated desire among Canadian visitors to connect with their heritage. By tracing the paths of history, these travelers embark on a meaningful quest for identity, memory, and understanding, making each stop along the way a significant part of their personal and collective narrative.

This commitment has inspired the tourist offices of Arras Pays d’Artois, Lens Tourisme, Dieppe-Normandie, Cœur de Nacre Tourisme, and Caen la Mer to collaborate on the creation of the Canadian Remembrance Route. Stretching over 400 kilometres, this remarkable journey leads visitors through deeply significant sites such as Vimy, Beaumont-Hamel, Dieppe, Juno Beach, and military cemeteries—each one resonating with emotion and historical weight. This route serves as a heartfelt tribute to the brave generations who sacrificed everything for freedom, ensuring that their enduring legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the courage and resilience that shaped our world.

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