Lower Normandy Holiday Guide
Lower-Normandy is already a very popular region with the British due to its accessibility. It is similar to the UK in terms of both its countryside and its climate (although admittedly, having a climate like the UK is not necessarily a selling point!) Lower-Normandy was part of England in the middle ages - so it's no wonder it has the feel of home!
A patchwork of coast and countryside, the region also has an unrivalled cultural and historical heritage. It became known the world over following the D-Day Landings by Allied Forces on June 6th 1944, but has since healed its wounds. Lower Normandy now boasts vast sandy beaches along a welcoming coastline dotted with renowned seaside resorts. The beaches of Deauville, the wild Cotentin coasts, the harbour of Honfleur are all worth a visit. Also on offer are equally attractive and totally unspoilt areas of countryside, such as the Nez de Jobourg headland. The Bayeux Cathedral, the famous Haras in Orne and the Abbaye-aux-Hommes in Caen are additional attractions.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Lower Normandy
- The Bayeux Tapestry
Housed in the museum the Centre Guillaume le Conquérant, this important historical artifact is a must-see if you are visiting Lower Normandy.
- Outdoor pursuits in the Suisse Normande
With the Orne River flowing through this particularly beautiful part of Lower Normandy, the Suisse Normande is an ideal spot for walkers, campers, anglers, canoeists and trekkers. The Oetre Rock (Roche d’Oetre) is one of the most spectacular viewing points in the area, with views onto the gorges and rock formations which dominate the landscape.
- Mont-St-Michel
It has long been dubbed 'the marvel of the western world' and it’s not hard to see why. The town rises majestically above the flat plains below, with its mediaeval architecture pointing upwards. At the top sits a former Benedictine Abbey, built in 966 by the Duke of Normandy.
- Château d’O
Not far from the town of Argentan, this magnificent château mostly dates back to the 15th Century. The water in the large moat mirrors building’s stunning Renaissance Norman architecture. There is a restaurant and fine gardens for picnicking.
- D-Day Beaches
The landings by allied forces onto beaches across Normandy, which began on 6 June 1944 marked the beginning of the end of World War II. The beaches are worth visiting, but the various museums which are nearby certainly are and the war cemeteries brings home the true cost of the landings in. Other sites of importance include Pegasus Bridge on the Caen Canal near Ouisterham and the Caen Memorial.
Top 5 Towns and Cities in Lower Normandy
- Caen
Caen is the historic and beautiful capital city the region and was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. The town was so close to William’s heart, that it is where he and his wife were buried.
- Honfleur
Honfleur is a lively and colourful port town that lies on the Seine estuary. It is said to be the most picturesque and authentic town in the region, so for a true taste of Normandy in all its glory, head for Honfleur.
- Coutances
On the Contentin Peninsula, Coutances is considered to be the prettiest town in Normandy. It is easy to see why - the fabulous 13th century Gothic cathedral soars above the rooftops of the neat houses and gardens.
- Liseux
The home town and resting place of Sainte Thérèse, Lisieux not only houses the relics of the much loved saint, but also has one of the most stunning religious buildings in France in its beautiful Basilica.
- Deauville
The town is nicknamed the ‘Lady of the French coast’. The most prominent lady to arrive here was Coco Chanel, who opened up her highly acclaimed boutique here and consequently elevated the status of the town, turning it into the fashionable resort we see today. A large number of designer outlets have followed resulting in an immensely desirable shopping scene. There are a number of events held in Deauville each year, such as Regattas, polo tournaments and race meetings.
Food and Drink in Lower Normandy
Unlike the many other parts of France, which are renowned for their wines, Lower Normandy is particularly well-known for two beverages, cider and calvados. The liqueur calvados, which is unsurprisingly named after the department, is an apple brandy which commonly contains about 40% alcohol - though it can taste even stronger!
The region is also well respected for its cheeses, Camembert and Pont-l’Evêque being the best known.
How to get to Lower Normandy
Skysouth operate the only direct service from the UK to Lower Normandy. This runs from Shoreham Airport (Brighton) to Caen. However, there are plenty of alternatives. Ferries will take you to Ouistreham (Caen), Le Havre, Cherbourg and St-Malo. The Channel Tunnel is another option. If you don’t want to take your car then the TGV train will take you down into Normandy via Le Havre, Caen and Cherbourg.
