Day 1: Paris – Honfleur

Departing Paris, our first stop this morning is the pretty garden and home of French Impressionist, Claude Monet, at Giverny in Normandy. Monet lived here from 1883 until his death in 1929. The gardens inspired many of his paintings including the famous Water Lilies and the Japanese Footbridge series. Explore Monet’s gardens and home before we make our way to Chateau Gaillard, for a photo stop. This 12th century medieval castle, perched high above Les Andelys, was once home to Richard the Lionheart. Admire the wonderful views overlooking the River Seine from the Castle then travel to the picturesque harbour of Honfleur, one of the best-preserved old ports in Normandy. Enjoy dinner together before we take a stroll around the old centre. (D)

Day 2: Honfleur

We begin the day with a scenic drive along the "Normandy Corniche", offering spectacular views over the Normandy coastline. Renowned for its luxury resorts and attractive seafront towns we take the time to pass through Trouville and then the prestigious yachting harbour of Deauville, where you may wish to walk along the seaside boardwalk and visit the bustling port and market. After lunch, we pass through the charming harbour of Dives-sur-Mer, where William the Conqueror built the first part of his fleet in his attempt to invade England, before heading to Cabourg. In the 19th century Cabourg attracted the rich and famous seeking exquisite sandy beaches and an exciting atmosphere. We then drive inland to visit a manor house and estate, home to a local producer of cider and calvados, a popular local apple brandy. After a tour and an opportunity to sample these iconic Normandy products, we return to Honfleur for an evening at leisure. (B)

Day 3: Honfleur – Normandy Beaches - Bayeux

Today we visit the Normandy Beaches, forever associated in our minds with World War II’s D-Day Landings. These beaches tell a remarkable story and it is here that we see first-hand where events of World War II unfolded. We cross Pegasus Bridge, a major tactical objective in the hours following Allied landings in Normandy, before heading to the Musée du Débarquement at Arromanches. We then take to the sea for a cruise around the famous landing beaches of the area, including Omaha Beach. In the afternoon we will have time to visit the famous American War Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. Our historic day concludes with a leisurely drive to Bayeux. (B,D)

Day 4: Bayeux

Today you have the opportunity to explore Bayeux at your leisure. This medieval town with its cobbled streets, many restaurants and museums is also home to the world famous Bayeux Tapestry which has been listed by UNESCO World Heritage. The old town has retained its Middle Age character, with the cathedral at its very heart, and the narrow streets invite the visitor to browse in the shops or to linger in the town’s many bistros. Imagine yourself sitting at one of the many sidewalk cafes with a glass of wine and a platter of regional cheese as you watch life go by. (B)

Day 5: Bayeux – Mont St Michel – Rennes

This morning we travel across the Normandy countryside to Brittany. Today’s highlight is Mont St-Michel. Perched on a rocky islet this gothic style abbey was built between the 11th and 16th centuries and appears to rise from the surrounding waters. We continue on to Dinan, an attractive medieval town with fine old buildings, some dating back to the 13th century. We spend this evening in Brittany where we enjoy dinner together. (B,D)

Day 6: Rennes – Angers – Chinon

Today we travel to the Loire Valley, renowned for its fairy-tale castles, historic villages and splendid food and wine. Our first port of call is Angers, a pretty town with a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Widely considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Angers’ many notable attractions include a magnificent cathedral and an imposing moated castle with soaring towers. We also visit local vineyard and sample regional wines before we make our way to Chinon, a medieval town located in the heart of the Loire Region. Resting by the banks of the majestic Vienne River, Chinon is steeped in history and rich with culture. (B)

Day 7: Chinon - Chateau of Villandry - Chinon

Today we travel to the imposing Chateau de Villandry, the last of the great chateaux of the Loire. Built during the Renaissance, the chateau’s glorious landscaped gardens are some of the finest in France, occupying over six hectares. Next we make our way to Chateau d’Usse which reputedly inspired the ‘Sleeping Beauty’ story. On our return to Chinon you will have plenty of time to further explore this lovely town and sample local delicacies. (B)

Day 8: Chinon – Bonneval

Departing from Chinon we have the choice of two wonderful chateaux to visit this morning, the Chateau de Chenonceau with its exceptional museum and magnificent gardens; or the Chateau de Cheverny, owned by the same family for more than six centuries and surrounded by an English-style park consisting of magnificent giant redwoods and lime trees which planted between 1820 and 1860. We then proceed to our overnight stop, where we enjoy our final dinner together. (B,D)

Day 9: Bonneval – Chartres – Paris

A fitting climax to our last day on tour is the celebrated cathedral of Chartres, incomparable anywhere in the world for its stained glass dating from the 13th century. Old Chartres’s picturesque streets evoke the bustling activity of a medieval town of merchants and craftsmen. We return to Paris this afternoon where our tour ends. (B)

This tour departs 0830hrs and returns 1730hrs from:

Hôtel Elysées Ceramic

34 Avenue de Wagram

75008 Paris

Tour Photos