Travel from Paris to Honfleur through the Normandy countryside stopping en route first at Giverny, the former home of the impressionist painter Monet with its attractive garden and where his “Water Lilies” were painted and after, at the Abbey of St. Wandrille de Fontenelle constructed in the 7th Century. Honfleur is very well preserved picturesque port and where you will stay for the next 2 nights.
The next morning, travel along the coast visiting the sophisticated resorts of Trouville and Deauville after which head inland along the Route du Cidre. This road traverses through narrow lanes where the apples are grown to produce cider. Arrive at the village of Beuvron-en-Auge, one of the prettiest in France with its medieval houses. You will have the opportunity today to sample the local cider and Calvados, Brittany’s “brandy”. Return later to Honfleur.
The following day brings you to the iconic Normandy Beaches made famous during World War Two with the D-Day landings in 1944. The beaches to be visited include Utah, Omaha, Gold and Juno Beaches. There will also be a visit to the American War Cemetery at Colleville-sur.Mer. Continue to the city of Bayeux for 2 nights’ accommodation.
The next day brings you the famous Bayeux Tapestries which depict the Norman Conquest of England. The amazing tapestry is 68 metres/220 feet in length with 58 action-packed scenes of pageantry and mayhem. Included is a depiction of the Battle of Hastings. There is also time to browse the medieval cobblestone streets of Bayeux.
The following day you enter Brittany with first, a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont St. Michel perched high on a rocky promontory reached by crossing a sandbank. On the island is a gothic-styled Benedictine abbey dating back to the 11th Century. Next is a visit to the extraordinarily attractive medieval town of Dinan with its ramparts, cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Take time to wander the narrow streets complete with art galleries and craft shops. Also, make sure to visit the beautiful Place des Merciers in the heart of Dinan. Overnight in Dinan.
The Loire Valley is the next stop with its fairy-tale castles and excellent food and wine. Arrive in Anger considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in France with its moated castle and other treasures. Continue to Chinon, a delightful medieval town on the Vienne River. It boasts many vineyards plus a majestic fortress. Spend 2 nights here.
Now is the time to explore the heart of the Loire Valley visiting Chateau de Villandry, a very large and imposing chateau with attractive landscaped gardens. which was built during the Renaissance period. Returning to Chinon, there will be the opportunity to sample some of the Loire Valley wines.
The following morning brings a visit to Chateau de Chenonceau, one of the most famous chateaux with its museum and exceptional gardens. Tonight you will experience a stay at a chateau, probably Chateau de la Bourdaisiere where you will not only have dinner prepared by the chateau’s chef but will help to prepare it.
Your final day is devoted to a visit to the city of Chartres, home of the renowned cathedral with its famous stained glass windows dating back to the 13th Century. Later, return to Paris.
