In Normandy, an "artist's paradise," wonderful coastline,woodlands and countryside combine to make a fabulousbicycle vacation. Of course, Normandy is also wellknown for the WWII landing beaches used by the Alliedarmies. There is much to see and remember here of thattime. This region of France is also renowned for its dairyproducts, and the gastronomical delights won'tdisappoint. In addition to its cider and Calvados,Normandy produces the famous Camembert cheese.You're certain to enjoy this countryside as you bicyclethrough the green pastures and seaside towns,discovering the history that has made this area sofamous.
This tour is primarily focused on thesites of the WWII landings and memorial inCaen.
Day 1: Arrive to start cycling tour in Bayeux.Your hotel, a 17th-century former coachhouse, is in the heart of the city, allowing youa chance to explore before having dinner.Bayeux was the first town to be liberated during the Battle of Normandy, so there ismuch history here. Perhaps best known is the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting William ofNormandy's 1066 conquest of England. Orientation and bike fitting 6pm at hotel.
Day 2: Leaving Bayeux, you will cycle through the rich countryside of Bessin, enroute to Omaha Beach. The striking white crosses of the American Military Cemeteryat Colleville-sur-Mer evoke strong memories of D-Day. You have an option to visit LaPointe du Hoc, where you will encounter some of the most spectacular scenery alongthe coast. It is here that one of the most intense battles of World War II was fought.Return to Bayeux.
Day 3: Your bicycle tour continues to Arromanches, Gold Beach, and Juno Beach.Here you can see the vestiges of Mulberry, the artificial floating harbor conceived byWinston Churchill as a means to deliver supplies to the landing troops. The LandingMuseum traces the stages of the Allied landings. Proceed along the coast and itsmagnificent beaches to Courseulles-sur-Mer, and perhaps visit the Maison de la Mer(shellfish aquarium and seashell museum). You'll head inland to reach Caen, and yourcentrally located hotel for this evening.
Day 4: Caen, the capital of Lower Normandy,is a sizable city and there is much to see anddo here. Maybe an early start to visit themarkets selling the delicacies of the region:cider, calvados, cheeses, butter and “teurgole”,a rice pudding with cinnamon. The Chateau,built by William the Conqueror, offers apanoramic view of the city. Your visit is notcomplete without a visit to the Peace Memorial Museum, dedicated to the history of theWorld War II conflict. If time allows, you may wish to visit the Abbaye aux Hommesand Abbaye aux Femmes, built by William the Conqueror and his wife QueenMathilde respectively. The bike ride today is optional, but gives you a chance to seePegasus Bridge, so named for the British 6th Airborne Division’s emblem, to reach thecoast. Return to same hotel in Caen.
Day 5: Departure after breakfast, at your leisure.
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