On the picturesque coast of northern France, Normandy awaits discovery with its captivating landscapes, rich history, and cultural treasures. From the iconic D-Day beaches to pretty, timber-framed towns and villages, this region offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, gastronomy, and historical significance.
Immerse yourself in the idyllic countryside, savour delectable cuisine, and explore the enchanting landmarks that define Normandy's allure.
Take a look at our magnificent farmhouses, chateaux and villas in Normandy and take the whole family on an unforgettable holiday to this ever-inviting corner of northern France.
Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our collection of handpicked luxury rentals in Normandy have this in spades.
We have destination experts who know the ins and outs of all our regions, picking villas, chateaux and holiday cottages in Normandy that aren’t only unique, but also in the best locations. What's more, our villas are 100% family-friendly, and have the ‘wow’ factor.
Our helpful concierge team are on-hand to make your stay extra special. Whether you are looking for tips on local restaurants, advise on which key attractions to visit or any other extra service – consider them your holiday genie, who will happily grant your wishes.
Normandy hosts a plethora of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and arts to food and local traditions. Some notable festivals include the Festival Beauregard, a music festival held near Caen, featuring a diverse lineup of national and international artists.
The Festival of Normandy, which spans over two weeks, celebrates the region's cultural heritage with concerts, theatre performances, and art exhibitions. There are also numerous food festivals, like the Fête du Cidre (Cider Festival) and Fête du Fromage (Cheese Festival), where you can indulge in the delicious gastronomy of the region.
Every year on June 6th, Normandy commemorates the historic D-Day landings of World War II. The region is filled with events, ceremonies, and reenactments that pay tribute to the brave soldiers who fought during the liberation of France.
Every September, the elegant seaside town of Deauville hosts the Deauville American Film Festival, one of France's most prestigious film events. It showcases a diverse selection of American films and attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. You’ll likely spot a celeb or two!
Normandy's gastronomy is a delightful reflection of its bountiful countryside, fertile orchards, and abundant coastal waters. Renowned for its culinary heritage, the region offers a tempting array of flavours that will captivate any food lover.
One of the standout stars of Normandy's cuisine is its world-famous cheese, Camembert. Creamy, rich, and aromatic, this soft cheese hails from the village of Camembert itself and is best enjoyed with a fresh baguette and a glass of Normandy cider.
Speaking of cider, Normandy takes great pride in its apple-based beverages, from the slightly sweet sparkling cider to the punchy apple brandy, Calvados - an absolute must-try.
Seafood enthusiasts will revel in Normandy's coastal offering, with dishes such as moules marinières (mussels in a white wine and shallot sauce) and sole meunière (sole fish cooked in butter and lemon). You'll also find delectable seafood platters featuring oysters, langoustines, and other shellfish, served with a zesty mignonette sauce.
Finish off a meal by indulging your sweet tooth with a slice of Tarte Tatin, a caramelized apple tart, or a serving of creamy Normandy ice cream.
Moules marinières
Normandy's rich history comes alive at the D-Day beaches - Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno and Sword - where you can visit the vast and beautifully sombre American Cemetery at Omaha Beach and the insightful museums in the area that depict the pivotal events that unfolded on these hallowed shores during the Second World War.
Embark on a breathtaking coastal drive along the "Route des Caps," a scenic road that winds its way through the stunning landscapes of the Cotentin Peninsula. Admire the rugged cliffs, charming fishing villages, and panoramic views of the English Channel.
Visit Giverny, the former residence of renowned artist Claude Monet. Explore the exquisite gardens that inspired some of his most famous works, including the iconic water lily paintings. And, don't miss the opportunity to visit the charming town of Bayeux, home to the famous Bayeux Tapestry depicting the events of the Norman Conquest.
Great for kids: This is the perfect location for little ones to try their hand at cycling, and horse riding in the lush green countryside, and parents will appreciate the opportunity for them to burn off energy and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Great for teens: Teenagers can indulge in a variety of water sports along the coast, including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, providing them with thrilling and active experiences.
To make the most of your visit, plan your itinerary wisely. Prioritise the places you want to see the most and group nearby attractions together to minimise travel time, especially if you're travelling with kids or teenagers, to avoid feeling rushed.
Normandy's picturesque landscapes have inspired many renowned artists, including Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin, who founded the Impressionist movement. Places like Giverny, where Monet's famous water lily paintings were created, showcase the region's influence on art and culture.
Normandy is a beautiful rural region peppered with pretty towns that have significant historical value. All over the region, its peaceful towns are a haven of gastronomic delights and artisan creations where you can eat and shop ‘til your heart is content.
Take a trip to the stunningly beautiful town of Beuvron-en-Auge. Its narrow streets are lined with well-preserved, timber-framed houses adorned with colourful flowers and window boxes. Walking through the village feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse of rural France from centuries past.
The historic capital of Normandy, beckons visitors with its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture, charming medieval streets, and a vibrant cultural scene, including the famous Gros-Horloge clock and the impressive Palais de Justice.
This captivating city offers travellers a perfect blend of ancient history and modern allure, with its iconic Caen Castle, the beautiful Abbaye-aux-Hommes, and a diverse range of museums, gardens, and bustling markets to explore.
This coastal gem is often the gateway to France for ferry travellers from Poole, UK. The town allures tourists with its breathtaking sea views, maritime heritage, and the impressive Cité de la Mer aquarium. Nature lovers will relish the nearby Cap de la Hague, offering breathtaking coastal walks and sweeping views of the English Channel.
This elegant resort town entices travellers with its glamorous atmosphere, beautiful sandy beaches, and world-class horse racing events at the Deauville-La Touques Racecourse. Stroll along the famous Les Planches boardwalk, where beach cabins bear the names of Hollywood stars who have graced its shores, and indulge in upscale shopping at luxury boutiques.
A staple of every postcard from Normandy, the striking monastery-topped islet at the end of a causeway is an absolute must-visit. Make your way across the causeway and venture up the winding hillside dotted with boutiques and crêperies and up to the magnificent Gothic edifice for gorgeous 360-degree views.
This charming harbourside town is where the Seine meets the sea and makes for a great day trip. Stroll around the marina and stop off for a bite of delicious moules mariniére beneath a mishmash of wonky harbourside houses with a quirky, Disney-cartoon-like quality.
Normandy is home to a handful of small airports, but none welcome many international flights. Thankfully, Paris is not far away with its two principal airports. Public transport from the airports is not straightforward, but there are regular trains from central Paris to Caen, Rouen and Lisieux.
Normandy is served by multiple ferry routes from different ports. The main departure ports in the UK for reaching Normandy are:
Make sure to book your ferry tickets in advance, particularly in peak season.
Renting a car is a convenient and popular way to explore Normandy. The region is well-connected by a network of well-maintained roads, allowing you the flexibility to visit both popular tourist destinations and hidden gems. However, parking may be limited in city centres.
Normandy has an efficient public transport system that connects major cities and towns, making it an excellent option for those who prefer not to drive. Trains operate between major cities like Rouen, Caen, and Le Havre, offering a comfortable and scenic way to travel.
Normandy's picturesque landscapes and charming countryside make it an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. Many towns offer bike rental services, allowing you to explore at your own pace. You'll find a variety of well-marked cycling routes, from leisurely coastal paths to challenging hillside trails. Consider cycling along the Véloroute which connects Paris to Mont Saint-Michel.
Many towns and villages of Normandy have well-preserved historic centres that are best explored on foot. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, discover hidden alleys, and stumble upon charming cafes and boutiques. Normandy's countryside offers scenic hiking trails, including sections of the famous GR (Grande Randonnée) long-distance paths.
