A Journey Through Normandy: Honfleur, Rouen & Monet's Garden

We take the Eurostar service from London St Pancras to Paris, arriving at Paris, Gare du Nord after approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

This morning, we embark on a guided stroll through the heart of this remarkable city, where every corner reveals a piece of history. Though the route is short in distance, its historical depth is immense. At the stunning cathedral, famously captured by Claude Monet, you can marvel at the tombs of Richard the Lionheart and the grandfather of William the Conqueror. The cathedral itself tells the story of centuries past – its construction, its destruction by fire, its rebuilding, and the scars of the Wars of Religion. Today, it stands as a magnificent Gothic masterpiece, testament to resilience and artistry through the ages.

Normandy is renowned across France for its rich culinary heritage, with its iconic cheeses, creamy delicacies, and apples taking centre stage. But behind these beloved ingredients lies a world of traditional dishes steeped in history. Here, the focus is on fresh, locally sourced produce, offering an authentic flavour of the region. Today, we’ll indulge in a true taste of Normandy with a lunch at a charming family-run restaurant that upholds the area’s gastronomic traditions. It’s the ideal way to cap off our walking tour, savouring the heart and soul of Normandy’s cuisine.

Today, we journey to one of the most picturesque destinations along France’s northern coastline – the enchanting town on Honfleur. Steeped in charm, its well-preserved old harbour is a delightful blend of fishing boats and luxurious yachts, all set against a backdrop of pastel-coloured 18th Century houses, many now home to seafood restaurants that showcase the best of the local catch.

As you stroll along the waterfront, you’ll find local artists at work, their canvases capturing the beauty of this iconic view. Behind the bustling quayside lies a labyrinth of narrow streets, where the eaves of tall, half-timbered houses nearly touch, creating a cozy atmosphere. Here, you’ll discover a mix of traditional shops, offering antiques, books, and fine local produce.

The rhythm of local life is easy to embrace as residents pause to greet each other with a kiss on each cheek before continuing on their way. This peace, harmonious ambiance perfectly encapsulates the essence of a classic French provincial town.

Honfleur is also the birthplace of Eugène Boudin, a key figure in the Impressionist movement and mentor to Claude Monet. The town boasts a museum dedicated to his works, along with pieces by other artists, including Monet himself. It’s a must-see for art lovers (please note that opening hours may vary by season). 

We'll visit the new immersive museum experience in Honfleur, which features the reconstructed battleship of William the Conqueror, known as “La Mora.” This experience brings over 1,000 years of history to life, telling the story of William and his army, from their preparations for the crossing to England, through the sea voyage, and culminating in the Battle of Hastings itself. 

We make out way to the historic Gold Beach, famously associated with the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. This significant event marked the beginning of the end of Nazi occupation and led to the liberation of Europe during World War II. At Arromanches, you can visit one of the most insightful museums in the region, where the remains of the Mulberry Harbour still stand as a testament to the ingenuity of the Allies, or explore the fascinating old town further. Following this poignant visit, we return to our hotel. 

Normandy’s reputation for apples is well-earned, with approximately 750 unique varieties grown across the region. Many of these apples are perfectly suited for crafting cider, making it impossible to visit Normandy without experiencing the art of cider-making at a local, family-run orchard. Here, the blend of time-honoured traditions and modern techniques results in organic ciders, free from chemicals and pesticides, allowing the natural flavours to shine through.

During our visit, we’ll have the opportunity to taste a selection of these ciders – or as the French call it, cidre – perfectly complemented by an array of local cheeses, each chosen to enhance the delicate flavours of the drinks. To round off this sensory experience, we’ll enjoy a glass of Calvados, Normandy’s renowned apple brandy, a true reflection of the region’s rich agricultural heritage. 

Claude Monet’s masterpieces are renowned for their superlative use of colour, and today you’ll have the opportunity to experience this vibrant artistry up close. A visit to his beloved house and garden in Giverny offers a chance to wander through the very landscapes that inspired some of his most famous works. The house itself, including his studio, is equally captivating, providing a glimpse into the life and creative process of this legendary artist.

Then, after soaking in the beauty of Monet’s world, we continue our journey to Paris for our return to the UK via the Eurostar.