5 ideas for guided tours in Normandy

• The Cliffs of Étretat

  The small town of Étretat is located near the city of Le Havre. This village is world-famous for its stunning **cliffs of Étretat** and the breathtaking views they offer from their summits. They are part of the 140 kilometers that make up the Alabaster Coast.

  This site is truly iconic, with its grand arches spanning three cliffs: Aval, Amont, and Manneporte, each rising up to 100 meters above the English Channel. The most legendary remains the Porte d’Aval, where you can admire a spectacular view from its flint arch.

  The cliffs of Étretat have inspired numerous artists, including renowned Impressionist painters Claude Monet and Gustave Courbet. Walking along the hiking trails, you will discover breathtaking panoramas—perfect for photography enthusiasts. The GR21 trail follows the coastline, allowing you to walk along the cliffs while also exploring secluded coves and pebble beaches below.

  This natural site is also a favorite among paragliders, offering a unique aerial perspective. The sunsets over the cliffs of Étretat are particularly stunning, with shifting colors that illuminate the arches and rock formations.

• Les Andelys

  It was the French Revolution that united **Petit Andely**, a former fishing village along the river, and **Grand Andely**, a town dating back to the Gallo-Roman era, with its ramparts and belfry, into the charming commune of Les Andelys.

  Located just 100 kilometers from Paris in the Eure department, this village offers a picturesque setting along the Seine.

  Les Andelys is best known for the impressive ruins of Château-Gaillard, a fortress built in the late 12th century by Richard the Lionheart. Perched atop a limestone cliff, the castle offers breathtaking views of the Seine Valley and serves as a prime spot for understanding the medieval history of the region. The climb to the castle provides magnificent scenery, and once at the top, the panoramic view of the valley and the Seine’s meandering course is simply spectacular.

  On your way back down, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the banks of the Seine. The riverside paths are lined with greenery and offer beautiful views of the historic houses of Petit Andely. History lovers should also visit Saint-Sauveur Church in Grand Andely, which houses beautiful works of art and reflects the town’s rich religious heritage. Les Andelys is an ideal destination for a nature escape combined with a journey into medieval history.

• D-Day Landing Beaches

  On June 6, 1944, Allied forces landed on five beaches to launch the Battle of Normandy, marking the beginning of France’s liberation from Nazi occupation. These beaches are all located along the western coast of **Calvados**.

  – Sword Beach: The main landing site for British troops and where Free French forces first set foot on French soil. The easternmost beach is just 15 kilometers from Caen.

  – Gold Beach: Another key site for the British offensive, and likely the least deadly battlefield of the day.

  – Juno Beach: Assigned to Canadian command alongside British forces, this beach was heavily defended by the German army, leading to significant losses on both sides.

  – Utah Beach: The westernmost beach, where the primary objective was to recapture the port of Cherbourg.

  – Omaha Beach: The bloodiest landing site, as it was the most fiercely defended. The American forces led this battle.

  A visit to these historic beaches is a must, combining natural beauty with a profound lesson on World War II. To deepen your understanding, visit the Caen Memorial, a museum built on a former bunker that offers an outstanding recounting of the D-Day landings and the Second World War.

• Mont-Saint-Michel

  The most visited site in Normandy, this iconic abbey perched on a rocky islet remains an absolute must-see despite the large number of visitors.

  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont-Saint-Michel is an architectural masterpiece set within a vast bay. You can visit it at low tide by crossing the new footbridge or at high tide when the mount transforms back into an island. Depending on the tides and seasons, the scenery constantly changes, adding to the magic of the site.

  As you wander through its winding cobbled streets, you’ll discover a true medieval village filled with shops, restaurants, and stone houses. At night, the visit takes on a different dimension, as the illuminated walls create a mystical and enchanting atmosphere. The climb to the top leads to the unmissable Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey, a stunning example of Gothic religious architecture.

  Founded in 708 by Aubert, Bishop of Avranches, the abbey is dedicated to the Archangel Saint Michael. It proudly dominates the summit of the rock, with its impressive halls, cloister, and refectory featuring exquisite sculptures and vaulted ceilings.

  From there, you can enjoy a majestic view over the bay, famous for having some of the strongest tides in Europe. If you’re up for an adventure, consider a guided walking tour across the bay at low tide with a Normandy tour guide, learning about the history and geology of this extraordinary environment.

• Honfleur

  Honfleur has welcomed some of the greatest painters and has become the birthplace of the Impressionist movement. You will understand why as soon as you set foot in this charming town.

  Everything here exudes delicacy, charm, and beauty, from its picturesque alleys to its typical Norman houses with half-timbered facades. Honfleur is best known for its Vieux Bassin, a picturesque harbor where traditional boats mingle with modern yachts. The port is surrounded by historic buildings adorned with colorful slate facades, creating a particularly photogenic and romantic atmosphere.

  To fully explore the town’s hidden gems, let Normandy tour guides lead you through its fascinating history and secret spots. You can also visit Sainte-Catherine Church, a stunning wooden architectural masterpiece dating back to the 15th century. Built by marine carpenters, it reflects the town’s deep maritime heritage.

  Art lovers will appreciate the Eugène Boudin Museum, dedicated to the famous painter from the region who greatly influenced the Impressionist movement. The museum features an impressive collection of paintings, drawings, and sculptures.

  Honfleur also offers a seaside retreat, with its tranquil beach and scenic coastal promenades. Don’t miss the chance to savor local specialties at one of the many renowned harbor restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and iconic Norman dishes like the famous apple tart or baked Camembert.