Normandy & D-Day Landing Beaches

Day One

Early departure for our journey south to Dover and a ferry crossing to Calais. On arrival in Calais we then continue to Rouen where we stay at the Mercure Rouen Champ-de-Mars for one night. This evening savour a meal at one of the many delightful local restaurants, offering Norman specialties and soak up the lively atmosphere of this historic city.

Day Two

Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore delightful Rouen. Discover the delightful historical centre with its half-timbered houses and architectural treasures such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, St Ouen Abbey, the Palais de Justice and the church of St. Joan of Arc whose design represents the pyre on which she perished in 1431. Another main attraction is the amazing Gros Horloge, a huge astronomical clock dating back to the 16th century set beautifully within a Renaissance arch. We depart Rouen this afternoon and travel to Caen, where we stay for the next four nights.

Day Three

Enjoy a leisurely day in Caen, a city that offers far more than its poignant wartime history. Discover the impressive Caen Castle, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe, and explore the stunning Abbaye-aux-Hommes and Abbaye-aux-Dames, two remarkable abbeys that beautifully reflect the city's rich medieval heritage.

Alternatively, you may wish to join us on an optional excursion to Mont Saint-Michel, one of France's most iconic landmarks. Perched on a rocky islet in the sweeping bay, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a major pilgrimage destination for centuries. With its dramatic silhouette, winding streets and preserved medieval charm, Mont Saint-Michel offers an unforgettable experience.

Day Four

Today, we are joined by a local guide for an insightful journey along the Normandy coastline, where we will explore some of the most significant battlegrounds and landmarks of the D-Day Landings. This guided tour of the D-Day Beaches offers a meaningful opportunity to honour the courageous soldiers of World War II as we visit key sites, memorials and cemeteries.

Day Five

Today, we continue our exploration of the beautiful Normandy Coast with a visit to Deauville, a glamorous seaside resort often hailed as the "Queen of the Normandy Beaches." Famed for its elegance and charm, Deauville boasts a prestigious racecourse, a bustling harbour and marina and the iconic Grand Casino. With its Belle Époque architecture, stylish boutiques and wide sandy beach lined with colourful parasols, it has long been a favourite getaway for artists, aristocrats, and film stars alike. We then continue to Honfleur, one of Normandy's most picturesque old ports, set on the estuary of the River Seine. Artists have always been attracted to Honfleur and the delightful Vieux Bassin with its boats, quays and tall slate fronted waterside buildings, plus the lively old streets lined with quaint timber and stone houses.

Day Six

We check out of our hotel and travel to the Caen port for our return sailing to Portsmouth. On arrival in Portsmouth we continue our journey home to North Wales.

B=Breakfast Included