Normandy travel guide

Located on the north coast of France, just a short ferry crossing away from southern England, is the province of Normandy, a region known just as well for its fascinating history and culture as for its beaches and countryside. Normandy is inextricably linked to some of the most significant events in British history, including the Norman invasion of England in 1066 and the Allied incursion into France towards the end of World War II.

Holidaymakers in the region can visit a number of monuments and landmarks that represent its rich heritage, but can also ensure that their trip is fun and relaxing by exploring the local countryside or spending some time on the beach.

Normandy comprises five separate counties – Seine-Maritime, Eure, Orne, Calvados and Manche – each of which has its own individual character and range of experiences to offer visitors. The region has a warm, temperate climate, meaning people travelling in spring or summer will have a high chance of good weather to make their holiday even more enjoyable.

Getting there

Holidaymakers have four main ferry ports to choose from when planning their visit to Normandy – Cherbourg, Caen, Le Havre and Dieppe.

LD Lines is one of the leading providers of ferry crossings to Normandy, with regular services from Portsmouth to Le Havre. This year will also see the launch of a new LD Lines route linking Dover to Dieppe, which will operate alongside an existing service to Dieppe from Newhaven.

Celtic Link Ferries and Irish Ferries sail from Rosslare in the Republic of Ireland to Cherbourg, while Condor Ferries offers services to the French port from Portsmouth during the summer. Brittany Ferries operates ferry crossings from both Portsmouth and Poole to Cherbourg and also sails from Portsmouth to Caen.

Things to do

The acres of picturesque open space in Normandy mean that hiking and rambling are among the most popular pastimes in the region. Visitors can explore nearly 2,000 miles of walking trails, which are divided up into separate itineraries to cater for people of all ages and fitness levels. There is also the option to increase the speed of one's exploration of Normandy by hopping on a mountain bike, a horse or even a canoe, all of which offer an exciting way to take in the scenery.

Those who enjoy a spot of golf during their holidays will find 36 courses in Normandy, including 12 that boast sea views and some that are nearly 100 years old. The more traditional and scenic courses can be found along the coast of the Seine Maritime, while Deauville is known for its luxury courses.

People interested in learning more about the history of Normandy can visit locations associated with D-Day and the Allied invasion of France during World War II. Offering a sobering but fascinating experience, the Battle of Normandy Historical Area includes all of the sites, museums and memorials related to the D-Day landings, covering the counties of Calvados, Manche and Orne.

Things to see

People with an interest in art can visit a number of locations in Normandy that provided inspiration for impressionist painters, including Rouen Cathedral, which was the subject of a series of famous works by Claude Monet. The region's scenery also captured the imaginations of JMW Turner, Alfred Sisley and other 19th century artists. There are a number of museums in Normandy that offer the chance to learn more about the province's artistic heritage, including the Musee des Beaux Arts in Rouen and the Musee Eugene Boudin in Honfleur.

Like many regions of France, Normandy boasts its fair share of historic chateaux and manor houses. Many stand as symbols of a time when English kings were dukes of Normandy, such as the castles of Caen and Falaise in Calvados and Chateau Gaillard at Les Andelys. There are also several fine examples of non-military architecture in the region, such as the palaces of Champ de Bataille in Eure and Bailleul in Saint-Maurice d'Etelan.

Holidaymakers who would like to experience the urban attractions on offer in Normandy can visit some of its many cities and towns, which are home to a number of museums, theatres and parks, as well as restaurants, markets and shopping areas. The ferry port of Le Havre boasts the first city centre to be added to the Unesco world heritage list, as well as a beach that stretches for more than 2km and a recently opened casino.

In Rouen, visitors will feel as if they have been transported back in time as they walk among half-timbered houses and gothic churches, while a trip to the medieval town of Bayeux provides the opportunity to see the famous Bayeux Tapestry.

Places to stay

There are plenty of accommodation options for holidaymakers to choose from in Normandy, including a number of affordable two-star establishments such as Kyriad in Cherbourg and Les 13 Assiettes in Le Val Saint Pere, which offers easy access to the popular attraction of Mont Saint Michel.

Visitors who would like to add an extra touch of luxury to their trip may want to opt for three-star accommodation, such as the Brunville hotel in Bayeux or Antares in Honfleur.

At the four-star Relais St Michel in Mont Saint Michel, guests will be able to enjoy impressive views of the Mont and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The hotel has a restaurant serving local seafood and other dishes, as well as a comfortable bar where visitors can relax in the evening.