Province of Normandy
Only a few hours from Paris and a lovely drive through the countryside you will soon come to a place along the coast of France, settled in between the two French Provinces of Brittany and Picardy. A place of culture offering something for everyone, a region in France called “Normandy”. Where apple trees bloom, a patchwork of glowing mustard grow, a place to daydreaming of yesteryear and take in the broad array of sites and attractions.. This is a place where tragedy once loomed and great victories were gained.
This region has been and continues to carry on the tradition of the weekenders escape for hundreds of years. Its infinite miles of pristine beaches, fish markets, charming cafes, and dramatic landscapes lure the city dwellers and tourists from around the world. Normandy tempts you with a smorgasbord of crepes, frites, seafood, apple delights, calvados and dairy specialties. It is the playground to the rich and adventuresome as it also offers a selection of village Casinos for your entertainment along with diverse artistic opportunities. Let’s not forget the history that lies within these gently sloping fields, glistening beaches and splendid banks; The Normans, The Artists and our own heroic Canadian soldiers. Come away with us and marvel in the history and Normandy’s wealth of beauty.
Village of Giverny-Monet’s Garden
As you make your way out of the hustle and bustle of Paris approx 75km you will come across an enchanting place called Giverny Village. A chance to refresh and surround yourself with splendour shaped by an artist from the past; Claude Monet. Monet settled in this special place during the late 1800s, creating his own place of solace and insight. Being fully restored after the war, Monet’s luminous gardens, ponds and charming home gives you a glimpse into what inspired this magnificent artist. The abundance of colour and vibrancy is captivating to many artists and photographers. Monet had a brilliant knack for creating unusual assortments of trees, bushes and flowers from around the world; let’s not forget his famous lily pads and Japanese inspired bridges. These lovely variations can all be seen and experienced on this very extraordinary land. Breathe in the abundance of fragrance and colour surrounding you. If this is a place you just cannot leave there are many bed and breakfasts locally sharing their French hospitality making your time in Giverny unforgettable. (Check out www.giverny.org).
If only visiting for the day to the famous home and gardens, be sure to take a break at the local restaurant just up the road from the gardens. Savour a wonderful French lunch of delicious crepes and the local refreshing cider. Now is the time to continue on your venture towards the incredible beaches of Normandy.
Normandy Beach
For Canadians Normandy has a special significance for on June 6, 1944, D-Day, they stormed Juno Beach and along with British and Americans fought for the freedoms we enjoy today and liberated the French from their yoke of Nazi tyranny. The German Bunkers that dot the coast, many with guns still in them, bear testimony to the struggle now more than 60 years ago. The Canadian cemetery at Beny-Sur-Mer is a place of serenity and remembrance containing the names of more than 2000 Canadians who died on D-Day and the weeks following in the Normandy campaign. The first liberated house on D-Day stands tall and strong overlooking Juno Beach. This famous home attracts thousands of people throughout the year paying their respects to our fallen soldiers. The French population has enormous respect for Canadians and Maple Leaf flags still adorn the houses in the region to this very day. The Canadian Juno Beach Center in Courcelles is dedicated to displaying the Canadian contribution on D-Day just as does the American museum at the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach. It is hard to explore the now beautiful beaches that spread for almost 100 kilometres without thinking of those historic terrible times.
Time to remember but also to enjoy the beauty and all that is to be had at this beach paradise. Whether you enjoy kite sailing, fishing, clamming or just taking in the sunshine and walking on the beach, there is something for everyone.
Any visit to the landing Beaches should include a visit just a few minutes inland to the Abbe D’Ardennes, a Medieval monastery and scene of a horrible atrocity of the Nazi SS. A special monument has been erected here to remember the lost soldiers. While you continue to explore be sure not to miss the opportunity to visit the immense castle in Caen built by William the Conqueror. The castle, built just a few years before his invasion of England in 1066 is amazingly preserved. Your trip would not be complete until you take the time to visit the village of Bayeux, just a half hour from Caen. The world famous Bayeux Tapestry is displayed and gives a rich account of William’s campaign in England. Your wonder for Normandy continues....
Abbaye du Mont-Saint Michel
Any visit to Normandy merits a trip to the Medieval Monastery Mont-Michel, jutting out on an island in the English Channel. Built from the 10th to the 15th Centuries, the Abbey is an amazing piece of incredible architecture when one considers it was built without any modern day mechanical means. IN 1979 this site was added as one of the World Heritage Site under UNESCO. The path climbing ever upward, is filled with quaint shops and restaurants .The spectacular interior of the Abbey rewards those visitors who make the upward trek with breathtaking views both inside and out. This piece of history is truly a treasure and a remarkable site to been seen.
Take the time to indulge in the loveliness and tranquility of Normandy. As Canadians we have so much wealthy history earned and valued here. The French hold a huge love and respect for those who liberated their lands. You see this first hand as you visit these small towns liberated 64 years ago with Canadian flag flying high and proud. The beauty of this rich and fertile region reaches out to you to discover and embrace its subtle radiance.
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