Beautiful pastoral countryside and awe-inspiring medieval architecture.
| Journey
through the Normandy countryside, a land of golden prairies and wooded valleys reflecting
a haven of peace and tranquility. And then to Brittany, a region offering breathtaking
coastlines, fine medieval architecture and fascinating prehistoric sites. Drive to Giverny and visit the house of Claude Monet, the father of Impressionism. Explore his beloved garden with its myriad of flowers, immortalized in art galleries throughout the world. Continue along the Seine river to the picturesque Château Gaillard, built by King Richard the Lion-Hearted. The majestic ruins of the château remain one of the loveliest sights along the Seine. |
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On
to Rouen, the ancient capital of Normandy, renowned for its flamboyant gothic architecture
best illustrated by its Notre-Dame Cathedral and old town marketplace. Travel to Honfleur, a picturesque fishing village, the inspiration to many Impressionists, with its wooden churches and cobblestone streets. A short drive will take you to Deauville, Northern Europe’s most elegant resort. Chic and fashionable, this seaside town has it all: yachting, sailing, horse racing, luxurious hotels, fabulous shopping and one of Europe’s finest casinos. |
| Go
back in time and visit the historic World War II landing beaches of Normandy: Gold, Juno,
Utah, Omaha and Sword. See the artificial harbor of Arromanches and the Peace Memorial of
Caen. Continue to Bayeux to see the Tapestry of Queen Mathilde, the famous 230-foot tapestry depicting scenes from the Norman conquest of England. Visit Mont St-Michel, a noble and austere bastion of granite surrounded by the sea. This medieval monastery was known throughout the centuries as the marvel of the western world. |
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A few
miles to the west along the coast is the walled city of St-Malo, the stronghold of ancient
pirates. Walk the massive ramparts before continuing to medieval town of Dinan, enjoying
the rocky Emerald Coast. Finally, visit prehistoric Carnac with its largest concentration of upright stones in Europe, probably a religious center. |
