NORMANDY Storied beaches, stunning landscapes, and provincial charm.

The Normandy region is full of beautiful, pastoral scenery, quaint villages, stunning coastal landscapes, and historic landmarks.

Plan to spend a couple of days touring in the area. There are an abundance of monuments and museums but they are spread out, so decide which are on your must-see list and have a well planned route.

For anyone with an interest in WWII, seeing the beaches of Normandy, as well as the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-mer, are a must. A moment in time to pay tribute to “The Greatest Generation” and honor those who did, and did not return home.

Advisor Tip:  “The charming village of Beuvron en Auge was designated one of France’s “most beautiful villages.” You can enjoy a fantastic lunch here at le Café Forges, a bistrot opened by the one-star-Michelin chef, Jerome Bansart, who owns the restaurant next door – Le Pave d’Auge. The Café Forges has a wonderful ambiance – it was a former iron forge – and the staff was very welcoming and the food excellent! The three-course lunch was very reasonable at 18 Euros.”

Bayeaux was one of the first towns to be liberated by the Allies and made it through the battle relatively unscathed. Its beautiful city center is dominated by an impressive Gothic cathedral.

Dieppe, Falaise, Honfleur, and St. Laurent-sur-mer are all lovely and interesting towns, worthy of inclusion in a Normandy itinerary. The Contenin peninsula offers a plethora of picturesque spots, including the quaint fishing villages of Barfleur and Port Bail. Take the time to visit the Nez de Jobourg and marvel at the magnificent and imposing cliffs overlooking the sea.

Of course, no trip to Normandy is complete without visiting one of France’s most recognizable landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage site, Mont Saint-Michel on the southern, coastal end of the region.

Exceptional Experience: Virtuoso can arrange for a very nice full-day food tour in the area, including wonderful local cheese, cider, and calvados tastings.