Normandy Press Pack 2013 - France

Normandy
Press Pack 2013
Edouard Valere
Deputy Manager
e.valere@normandie-tourisme.fr
www.normandy-tourism.org

Normandy – So easy to reach
Traveling to Normandy
By car from Paris
Giverny: 60 min
Rouen: 1h30
Deauville: 2h
Le Havre: 2h
Caen: 2h20
Colleville-sur-Mer (Omaha Beach): 3h
Cherbourg: 3h30
Mont-Saint-Michel: 3h30
By plane
The closest international airports are :
Paris - Roissy Charles de Gaulle
Paris Orly
Deauvillle - direct flights from London City
By train from Paris
From Saint-Lazare Station:
Service to Rouen, Le Havre, Dieppe, Fecamp, Evreux, Bernay, Lisieux,
Deauville, Caen, Bayeux, Cherbourg
From the Montparnasse Station:
Service to Alencon, Bagnoles de l’Orne, Argentan, Granville. Le-Mont-Saint-
Michel (TGV high-speed train via Rennes)
Guernsey
Brest
Alderney
(U. K.)
Jersey
(U. K.)
1
2
3
London Stansted
Leeds Bradford
East Midlands 4
Guernsey
5
Dinard
Pleurtuit
Portugal
Spain
Cap
de la Hague
Ireland
Nez
de Jobourg
I s l a
Saint-
Malo
United
Kingdom
n d
Normandy
France
C
Rosslare
Le Mêlesur-Sarthe
Beaumont-
Hague
Dielette
Les Pieux
o a s t
C o
Poole
t e
Portsmouth
n t i
B r itt any
Netherlands
Belgium
Luxembourg
Switzerland
Bricquebec
Saint-Pierre-
Église
Saint-Vaastla-Hougue
Quettehou
n
A 84
Sélune
C H A N N E L
Tatihou Island
L a
Vire
n
B e
i n g
Pointe du Hoc
Grandcamp-
Maisy
Portbail Cotentin
Formigny
Isignysur-Mer
d
N 13
La Hayedu-Puits
Trévières
and Bessin
Carentan
Wetlands
Lessay Natural Park
Pirou
Saint-Sauveur- Saint-L ô
Gouvillesur-Mer
Lendelin
Coutances
N 174 Torignisur-Vire
Agon-
Coutainville
Denmark
Germany
Italy
Austria
Mortagneau-Perche
Cherbourg-
Octeville
Distances
in kilometers
Pontorson
Fermanville
Valognes
Montebourg
Hambye
Mortain
Saint-Hilairedu-Harcouët
Saint-
James
Ducey
Barneville-
Carteret
Saint-Sauveurle-Vicomte
Sainte-Mère-
Église
Cerisyla-Salle
M A N CHE
Avranches
Alençon
Bayeux
Caen
Cherbourg
Deauville
Dieppe
Évreux
Le Havre
Sourdeval
Villedieules-Poêles
s
Sassetotle-Mauconduit
Colleville-
Saint-Laurent
s i n
B o c a g e
N o r m a n d
Vire
Bayeux 127
Caen
97 29
Cherbourg 216 92 121
Deauville 120 69 42 161
Dieppe 206 189 162 284 117
Évreux 115 150 123 246 96 111
Le Havre 151 109 81 206 40 99 108
127 84 58 182 16 11 91 24
Lisieux
91 76 48 171 30 131 73 56 33
Mont-St-Michel 133 112 121 145 163 284 239 202 179 168
Rennes
Paris
191 248 221 344 192 168 96 196 185 171 319
Rouen
149 154 125 247 89 60 52 87 75 83 248 122
Saint-Lô 131 35 56 77 98 220 181 140 117 104 78 282 186 Laval
Lisieux
Mont-St-Michel
Paris
Rouen
Ger
Saint-
Fraimbault
NORMANDY
B e a c
h e s
sFlers
B o c a g e
O r n a i s
Roche
d’Oëtre
London City
Mother of Pearl Coas t
S u i
s e
N o r m a n d e
Orne
Normandy-Maine Natural Park
Mayenne
A 88
Saint-Cénerile-Gérei
Flower ed
Portsmouth
Coas t
P a y
Haras
du Pin
Signal
d’Écouves
L oire Val l e y
C D E
Dives
Le Mans
A 88
Sées
s d
A 28
A l b a s
’ A u
Touques
g e
t e r
Fécamp
Yport
Étretat
Camembert
P a
d ’ O u
N 12
C o
Veulettessur-Mer
y s
c h e
a s
P e
t
P a y
r c h
s
e
d
Newhaven
C a u x
Doudeville
e
S E INE -MAR I TIM E
Sarthe
La Perrière
L’Aigle
Aube
Huisne
Perche
Bellême
Natural Park
Risle
Avre
Pourvillesur-Mer
Dieppe
Quibervillesur-Mer
Varengevillesur-Mer
Veulesles-Roses
Eure
F
Manchester
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Dublin
Knock
Le Bourg-
Dun
Iton
Tourvillesur-Arques
Cen t r e
Hautevillesur-Mer
Bréhal
Donvilleles-Bains
Chausey
Islands
Granville
Saint-Pair-sur-Mer
Jullouville La Lucerne
Carolles
Mont -
Sai nt-Michel Genêts
Bay
Le Mont-
Saint-Michel Courtils
Domfront
Bagnolesde-l’Orne
Le Tréport
Criel-sur-
Mer
P a y
s d
Blangysur-Bresle
A 28
Neufchâtelen-Bray
G
V a l l é e d e
A 29
A 29
A 151
Portsmouth
Yvetot
Clères
Forgesles-Eaux
Montivilliers
Bolbec
A 28
Eana Caudebecen-Caux
Rançon
Saint-Wandrille-
Le
Lillebonne
Lion-sur-Mer
Havre
A 29
A 131
Duclair
Seine Valley
Ry
La Feuillie
Luc-sur-Mer
Pont de
Jumièges
Langrune-sur-Mer
Port-
Villerville Normandie Natural Park
Saint-Martinde-Boscherville
ROUEN
Vascœuil
en-Bessin- Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer
Huppain
Bernièressur-Mer
Riva-Bella
Deauville Normandie
la-Forêt
Ouistreham- Trouville-sur-Mer Deauville
Bourneville
Lyons-
Blonville-sur-Mer
Arromanchesles-Bains
Courseulles-
Villers-sur-Mer
A 132 Beuzeville
A 29
Pontsur-Mer
Houlgate
Pontl’Évêque
Audemer
Montfortsur-Risle
Bayeux
Colleville-
Cabourg
Merville-
Montgomery
Beaumonten-Auge
Cormeilles
Le Bec-
Elbeuf
Franceville A 13
Ranville
Saint-Georgesdu-Vièvre
Hellouin
Balleroy
CAEN
Beuvronen-Auge
Champ Louviers
Vironvay
Brionne
Troarn
de Bataille
Lisieux
Vieuxla-Romaine
Cambremer
Harcourt Le Neubourg
Villers-
Gaillon
Crèvecœuren-Auge
A 28
Bocage
Beaumontle-Roger
Giverny
A 13
Vernon
A 84 CALVADOS
Bernay
Saint-Pierresur-Dives
Pacy-
EURE Évreux
N 158
Orbec
sur-Eure
Thury-
Vendeuvre
Harcourt
Livarot
Broglie Beaumesnil
Le Bény-
Gisacum
Bocage
Conchesen-Ouche
Vimoutiers
A 154
Clécy
Falaise
Condé-sur-
Noireau
Athisde-l’Orne
Putanges-
Pont-Écrepin
ORNE
La Ferté-
Macé
Écouché
Carrouges
Solignyla-Trappe
Montormel-
Coudehard
Argentan
Gacé
Alençon
0
Cany-
Barville
Tourouvre
Longnyau-Perche
Verneuilsur-Avre
Damville
50 km
Saint-Saëns
e B r a y
V e
i n
N o r m a n d
Seine
Eure
Ivry-la-Bataille
Nonancourt
Andelle
Chartres
Eu
Bresle
Béthune
l a B
A 29
Calais
r e
Les Andelys
Château
Gaillard
Saint-Valeryen-Caux
s l e
x
Gournayen-Bray
Key
Epte
Gisors
Aumale
Î le-de-
F r a nce
5
6
P icardy
Motorway or express way
Main road
Train track
Ferry link
County border
Town
For est
Airport
Ferry port
Amiens
Beauvais
Tillé
Roissy
CDG
Paris
N3745
Orly
2
2

Contents
Traveling to Normandy
What is on in Normandy in 2013?
Impressionist Normandy
Food and Drink in Normandy
WorldWar II in Normandy
UNESCO Normandy
Medieval Normandy
Parks and Gardens in Normandy
Golf and Spa Breaks in Normandy
Equestrian Normandy
Sport and Adventure in Normandy
Press Contacts
Normandy Departmental Tourist Board Press Contacts
2
4 - 5
6 - 9
10-15
16-18
19 - 21
22 - 23
24 - 25
26 - 27
28 - 29
30 - 31
32
32
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

What is on in Normandy in 2013?
Here are the main events taking place in Normandy over the coming year.
Keep an eye out for others dotted around the rest of the press pack!
March
6 th -10 th Asian Film Festival
Deauville, Calvados
This cultural event celebrates the very best of Asian
cinema, welcoming devoted fans alongside some of
the industry’s well-known stars.
www.deauvilleasia.com
April to September
th
27 April Normandie Impressionniste Festival
th
29 Sept Throughout Normandy
Following its success in 2010, festival Normandie
Impressionniste returns for its second edition in 2013.
From April to September a series of diverse cultural
events will take place in celebration of this internationnally
renowned movement. Ranging from art and photography
exhibitions to firework displays and rivers cruises, the
festival's many events are sure to add to the already
rich cultural experience on offer throughout the region.
www.normandie-impressionniste.eu
May
4 th -11 th Jazz under the Apple Trees Music Festival
Coutances, Manche
Head to the medieval town of Coutances for "Jazz Sous
les Pommiers" - a festival with big names in intimate
venues. Some of this year's confirmed artists include
John Surnam and Madeleine Peyroux. Visitors are
guaranteed an unforgettable atmosphere with music spilling
out into the surrounding streets and cafés. Full programme
unveiled in March at
www.jazzsouslespommiers.com
June
69 th Anniversary D-Day Commemorations
Across Normandy
Join locals and veterans as they mark the 69th
anniversary of the 1944 Allied Landings with
ceremonies and other commemorative events.
Normandy’s D-Day commemorations will be held on
beaches, at memorials and in towns throughout the
region.
www.bessin-normandie.com
6 th -16 th
July
10 th
Armada
Rouen, Seine-Maritime
An array of the world's most impressive ships will once
again descend upon the city of Rouen for the 6 edition of
this popular festival. Amongst ths ships will be the exceptional
Russian "Kruzenstern" which, at 114m long, is the largest
operational sailing boat in the world.
Visitors will have the opportunity to get close to the vessels
and even take on board tours of somme of them before
they sail as a fleet back along the Seine to the sea.
www.armada.org/en
Tour de France
Le Mont-Saint-Michel
Manche
Having welcomed the
Tour in both 2011 and
2012, this year
Normandy plays host
to one of the time trial
stages. Riders will race
against the clock along a
52 mile route that sees them
set out from Avranches and
cross the finish line against the
magnificent backdrop of the Mont-Saint-Michel.
www.letour.fr/2013
4
www.normandy-tourism.org

July to August
Rendez-vous à la Cathédrale
Bayeux, Calvados
Throughout the summer, Bayeux puts on a magical light
show to highlight its magnificent cathedral and its heritage.
This contemporary art installation offers a new outlook on
the historic monuments such as the 11th Century cathedral
with ultra modern techniques in video-projection.
The rendezvous take place at dusk on Tuesdays,
Thursdays and Saturdays around the cathedral and
in the courtyard of the Hôtel du Doyen.
www.bayeux-bessin-tourisme.com
October
th
7 - 14
th th
20 Bayeux-Calvados Award for War Correspondents
Bayeux, Calvados
In 1994, to coincide with the 50 anniversary of Bayeux
being the first town in France to be liberated during
World War II, the town launched a prize to honour
journalists and war correspondents that put themselves
at risk on the frontline to bring us coverage of conflicts
from around the world. After a week of exhibitions,
screenings and debates, the closing ceremony offers
the chance to reward some of the year’s best news reports.
www.prixbayeux.org
August
th
30 August American Film Festival
th
14 Sept Deauville, Calvados
Screening the best of the newest US film releases,
the Deauville American Film Festival attracts a mix
of occasional moviegoers and absolute film fanatics.
With a host of big name stars also in attendance,
the festival oozes glitz and glamour.
www.festival-deauville.com
What is on in Normandy in 2014?
70th D-Day Festival and Commemorations
The memory lives on... 2014 marks the 70th anniversary of the D-Day
landings. This pivotal moment in world history will be commemorated
by local residents, veterans and their families on the beaches,
memorials and in towns throughout the region from 6th June
onwards.
www.normandy-dday.com
Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games
24th August - 7th September
In 2014, Normandy will host the 7th Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games,
a two-week-long competition bringing together thousands of
horse lovers from all over the world. With its worldwide reputation of
excellence in horse breeding, Normandy is an obvious location for the
games. Caen, Deauville and the Mont-Saint-Michel plus the two
national stud farms in Saint-Lo and Le Haras du Pin will feature as the
key venues for the various equestrian disciplines.
www.jemfeialltech2014-normandie.fr/uk
5

Impressionist Normandy
In the beginning, there was Le Havre... Daybreak, at the edge of the bay, Claude
Monet props up his canvas and starts to paint his “Impression: Sunrise”.
Suddenly, the movement has a name, an identity, and a ringleader...
When a group of 19th century painters took up their newly invented tubes of
paint and headed outdoors to paint the landscapes of Normandy, the results
were nothing short of scandalous.
With their sweeping brush strokes, blurred lines and pastel colours, the paintings of the Impressionists were scorned and
derided for flouting the traditional rules of the art world.
Nowadays, with Impressionist masters such as Pissarro, Manet and Monet
household names, such contempt is hard to believe. Truly an international
phenomenon, with visitors flocking to Normandy to admire the timeless
landscapes alongside the paintings they inspired, Impressionism is
guaranteed to create excitement wherever it is celebrated.
Normandie Impressionniste Festival
The painting of Le Havre that gave the
Impressionist movement its name –
‘Impression, soleil levant’, 1872, Claude Monet
In 2013, Impressionism will be celebrated on a grand scale in the place
where it all began... in Normandy! From April the 27th to September the 29th, the second Normandie Impressionniste Festival will add
to the already rich experience in the region. With over 600 events taking place across Normandy, Normandie Impressionniste looks set
to take the region by storm. Events will range from painting and contemporary art through to cinema, theatre, dance, photography and
literary events, as well as, nocturnal light shows, firework displays, Seine River cruises, Impressionist trails and even giant dejeuner sur
l’herbe picnics. Find out more on the festival and the program on www.normandie-impressionniste.eu
Press contact:
Ailleurs Exactement
Florence Clisson
florence.clisson@ailleurs-exactement.com
alley
6

Impressionist Normandy
Impressionist highlights in Normandy
Rouen
Pissarro once claimed Rouen to be “as beautiful as Venice”.
He is not the city’s only admirer. Ideally located on the Seine
between Paris and the Normandy coast, Rouen’s heyday
was during the Impressionist period. Artists flocked to the
city, fascinated by the new industrial sites, the area’s natural
beauty and the plethora of unspoiled architectural gems.
The majestic cathedral would have its moment of glory when
Monet consecrated some 30 canvases to its facade, painted
at various times of day to capture the changes in luminosity.
Meanwhile, the Saint Sever district on the left bank, once the
heart of Rouen’s docklands, was immortalised by Camille 6
Pissarro in 1896. Both artists succumbed to the charms of
the half-timbered houses and narrow streets. The scene, as
they saw it, was destroyed during WWII but you can still visit
the rebuilt street which offers wonderful views of the
cathedral.
www.rouentourisme.com
Festival Normandie Impressionniste
Rouen Fine Arts Museum
29th April – 30th September
Eblouissants reflets
Paintings on display by Monet, Renoir, Manet, Caillebotte,
Signac, Cezanne and Van Gogh along with a collection of
photographs by Gustave Le Gray, Charles Marville, Peter
Henry Emerson, ...
www.rouen-musees.com
Cathedral Notre-Dame, Rouen
Rue du Gros Horloge, Rouen
Dating back to 1499, Rouen’s magnificent Hotel de Bourgtheroulde
mansion house is the first five star hotel of Rouen.
80 rooms and suites as well as a restaurant, brasserie,
swimming pool and spa.
www.hoteldebourgtheroulde.com
7

Impressionist Normandy
Impressionist highlights in Normandy
Giverny
As the Vernon-Gasny train chugged across the tranquil
Norman countryside, a French artist and his partner Alice
noticed a delightful town from their spot at the window.
Charmed by the sight, the man later brought Alice here to
live and there they stayed for 43 years. The artist was of
course Claude Monet and the town was that of Giverny.
This quaint retreat on the Seine became Monet's home in
1883 and by 1887, the spot had transformed into something
of an artists’ colony. The area not only welcomed Monet,
but many fellow artists including Cezanne, Renoir, Sisley,
Pissarro and Matisse who visited and painted with him.
Monet’s famous water-lilies, painted in the garden he lovingly
created at his Giverny home, have long been synonymous
with the Impressionist movement. Visit Monet’s house and
gardens in Giverny to see for yourself the actual water-lilies
that inspired the great master.
The Seine Valley
The Impressionists found the river
Seine and its banks to be a
never-ending source of
inspiration. The interaction
between light and water
was a recurring theme.
Armand Guillaumin, who
developed a landscape
style tinged with
romanticism, was just one
Impressionist who rose to the
challenge of painting the river’s
unique atmosphere.
The Alabaster Coast
This coastline of chalk cliffs and green pastures stretches
from Le Havre eastward along the coast to Fecamp. Special
mention goes to Etretat and its stunning cliff formations,
including the famous chalk needle. Monet interpreted many
of the scenes along this coast, leaving us a canvas trail to
follow, an invitation to explore it on our own.
www.fecamptourisme.com
www.etretat.net
Monet’s house and gardens, Giverny
Festival Normandie Impressionniste
Giverny Impressionisms Museum
29th March – 2nd July
Paul Signac, the Colours of Water
Some 120 paintings, watercolours and drawings
by Paul Signac
Cliffs at Fécamp
13th July – 31st October
Hiramitsu, the Lily Pond. Homage to Monet
Along with works by Monet, impressionism and Japanism
exhibited next to one another
www.mdig.com
8

Impressionist Normandy
Impressionist highlights in Normandy
Le Havre
The Impressionists, attracted by the unique, ever-changing
light play in the estuary, attempted to capture its colours on
canvas. A chic 19th century seaside resort for Parisians, the
town was also the summer home of Monet who frequently
stayed, and worked, at his aunt’s house in Sainte-Adresse.
www.le-havre-tourism.com
Festival Normandie Impressionniste
Malraux Museum, Le Havre
27th April – 29th September
Pissarro and the Ports.
Rouen, Dieppe, Le Havre
Works by Camille Pissaro along with Eugène Boudin
and Maxime Maufra.
www.le-havre-tourism.com
Honfleur
A charming fishing port, Honfleur looks much as it did when
Monet was a frequent visitor. Forerunner of the Impressionist
movement, Honfleur-born Eugene Boudin was a strong
influence on Claude Monet, who once said “If I became a
painter, I owe it to Boudin”. Monet first met Boudin in Honfleur,
and would subsequently drag the whole band of renegade
artists – Courbet, Corot, Sisley, Pissarro and Renoir – to the
Saint Simeon farm. Don't miss the Eugène Boudin Museum.
Two areas are dedicated to Boudin’s works – 92 in all –
including pastels, oil paintings and drawings.
www.ot-honfleur.fr
Festival Normandie Impressionniste
Fine Arts Museum, Caen
27th April – 29th September
A Summer at the Water’s Edge! Leisure and Impressionism
Works by Manet, Monet, Renoir, Gauguin, Cézanne, Seurat
and Maurice Denis, and also their foreign contemporaries,
such as Mary Cassatt, Joaquin Sorolla, Max Liebermann
and Peder Kroyer.
www.mba.caen.fr
The Floral Coast
Scenes of these trendy seaside resorts were painted by a
number of Impressionists, including the
Plage a Trouville by Eugene Boudin
(1893). Deauville’s sandy beach
dotted with brightly coloured
beach umbrellas, its whitewashed
bath houses and
traditional boardwalk
confer a timeless feel to
the familiar scene.
Monet also painted the
seaside resort of
Cabourg and its Grand
Hotel, reflecting the varying
moods of the sea and sky.
www.trouvillesurmer.org
www.deauville.org
www.cabourg.net
9

Food and Drink in Normandy
Normandy is truly a food lover’s paradise. For visitors seeking that authentic culinary experience, there are plenty of local
specialities to get your teeth into.
Apples and Pears
Sweetening many a regional dish, Normandy’s
signature apples and pears also form the
basis of traditional local drinks such as
cider, Perry, Calvados and Pommeau.
The quality of several of these
beverages, including Calvados
and Cider from the Pays d’Auge,
Pommeau de Normandie
and Domfrontais, has been
recognised with the award
of the Appellation d’Origine
Controllé (AOC) label.
Why not take a tour of the many
Calvados distilleries and Cider farms
and taste the celebrated tipples for
yourself?
Route du Cidre
Pays d’Auge, Calvados
The Route du Cidre, in the heart of the Pays d’Auge, is a 40km
trail that takes in picturesque villages such as Beuvron-en-
Auge, imposing châteaux and manor houses, half-timbered
cottages and cellars packed with bottles, all dedicated to the
humble apple.
Around 20 producers open their cellars to the public and share
their production secrets with visitors, among them Philippe
Huet, who today runs the family business founded by his
grandfather in Cambremer and who is also president of the
Route du Cidre.
www.calvados-tourisme.com
http://routeducidre.free.fr
Pierre Huet Calvados
Cambremer, Calvados
Visitors to this family-run estate are welcome to take a tour of
the manor’s apple orchards and distillery where AOC-certified
calvados, pommeau and cider are produced. Guided tours are
available from Easter to September.
www.calvados-huet.com
Calvados Morin
Ivry La Bataille, Eure
Established in 1889 by Pierre Morin and today managed by the
Viry family, the Morin AOC Calvados is regularly awarded the
Concours Général Agricole de Paris, a prestigious food and
drink award. Guided tours of the distillery are available yearround
on Monday and Friday afternoons and on other days by
appointment.
www.calvadosmorin.com
Calvados Drouin
Coudray-Rabut, Calvados
Offering a unique range of rare Calvados vintages, blends,
cider, poiré and pommeau de Normandie, the third generation
is now hard at work to maintain the traditions that have enabled
the estate to become one of the 100 ‘sites of excellence in
taste’, selected by the Ministry of Culture. Open to visitors all
year round from Monday to Saturday.
www.calvados-drouin.com
Did you know?
Normandy is the only region in France which still
produces Perry (Poiré). This heady beverage is made in
the same way as cider but uses pears not apples.
Cheese and Dairy
Normandy produces four distinct AOC cheeses- Camembert,
Livarot, Pont l’Evêque and Neufchâtel. Many farms welcome
visitors to sniff out the history and processes of cheese making;
from milking the cow to fermentation and storing and finally the
wrapping and boxing of each celebrated cheese.
The Cheese: Camembert
Round in form, Camembert is a soft cheese with a floury rind
left to ripen for 35 days. The cheese was perfected in 1791 by
Marie Harel, a lady farmer from the town of Camembert, who
followed the advice of a priest (who was originally from Brie)
who was staying with her.
10

Did you know?
Legend has it that during the 100 Years’ War young girls
offered the heart-shaped Neufchâtel cheeses to English
soldiers at New Year’s celebrations as a token of their
love!
The Cheese: Pont l’Evêque
Originally produced in the monasteries of the Pays d’Auge, the
first mention of its name, found in a book entitled ‘le roman
de la Rose’, dates back to 1230. The square Pont l’Evêque
cheeses have a soft ochre or golden-yellow rind and are left to
ripen for a month and a half.
The Visit: Ferme Président
Camembert, Orne
The Président Farm is located right in the heart of the village of
Camembert and is open to visitors. Learn the secrets of how
the cheese is made and how it has become one of the most
famous cheeses in the world.
www.fermepresident.com
The Cheese: Livarot
The most popular cheese in Normandy, Livarot most certainly
began life at the end of the Middle Ages, taking its name from a
small village south of Lisieux. With its distinctive orange rind and
strong smell, it requires at least 3 weeks of ripening to obtain its
unmistakable flavour.
The Visit: Graindorge Village Fromager
Livarot, Calvados
Established in 1910 by Eugène Graindorge, the dairy is still an
independent family business. Producing all two AOC cheeses,
the dairy welcomes visitors to take a free tour of the factory
and get an exclusive peek into the industrious production
workshops through specially-designed viewing galleries.
www.graindorge.fr
The Cheese: Neufchâtel
The most senior member of the Normandy cheese family,
heart-shaped Neufchâtel is almost a thousand years old with
traces of its existence dating back as far as 1035. Produced
only within a 30km radius of Neufchâtel-en-Bray in the Seine-
Maritime department, Neufchâtel is ready just ten days after it
has been made, giving it a mild, creamy taste.
The Visit: Fromagerie du Plessis
Lieury, Eure
Tucked away in the Eure department, the Fromagerie du Plessis
has been making its speciality, the Pavé du Plessis, since 1949.
Literally translated as ‘cobblestone’ thanks to its solid, square
shape, a good pavé has a brushed rind and is soft and ripe.
The du Plessis farm is also one of the few cheese makers in
Normandy who still produce AOC Pont l’Evêque cheese using
traditional unpasteurised milk.
www.normandie-accueil.fr
Isigny Butter and Cream
The butter and cream of the Calvados town of Isigny-sur-Mer
also have the AOC status. Ideally situated near the sea and
criss-crossed by five rivers, it is renowned for its rich pastures,
giving the local milk and cream their distinct aroma and flavour.
Isigny butter, made from cream, is matured for at least 12 hours
and is well known for its natural buttercup colour and hazelnut
taste. The cream is best known as crème fraîche and is used
extensively in Norman cuisine.
Isigny Sainte Mère dairy cooperative
Isigny-sur-Mer, Calvados
In 1932, 42 dairy farmers joined forces to promote and defend
the good name of the Isigny land. By 1970 this number had
risen to nearly 800. Merging with the neighbouring Sainte-
Mère-Eglise cooperative, the Isigny-Sainte-Mère branch came
into being in 1979. Visitors can experience first-hand how mild
is turned into butter, cream and cheese and tours encourage
visitors to discover the area’s history and how the products
earned their AOC status, painting a picture of the land and the
men who shape it.
www.isigny-ste-mere.com
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Seafood
Normandy’s 600km of coastline host
some of France’s most important
fishing ports. From lobster and
scallops to herring and
shrimps, Normandy’s
cuisine is nirvana for
the seafood-lover!
Scallops
With the ports of Dieppe, Fécamp, Port-en-Bessin, Granville,
Grandcamp and Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue all famed for their
seafood, it is no surprise to hear that Normandy is the main
French region when it comes to scallops, counting for over half
of France’s total production.
Oysters
The oysters
produced on the
stretch of Cotentin
coastline from
Granville to Portbail
are known as ‘pleine
mer’ oysters thanks to
their distinctive Atlantic
flavour. The oysters here
benefit from the clear seas
and strong currents, making
them particularly fine. The oldest
oyster-producing area of Normandy is on the
east side of the Cotentin at Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue. Oysters
from here are characterised by their plumpness and nutty taste.
Did you know?
21% of France’s oysters come from the coasts of
Normandy!
Don’t miss…
Auctioning the Catch
Port-en-Bessin, Calvados
This area still lives according to the rhythm of the tides
and the daily outings of its fishing fleet. Get up early and
witness the unloading of the catch at the daily fish auction
and see for yourself the huge variety of fish to be found
off the coast of this delightful little fishing port. Amongst
the cod, mackerel, monkfish and squid, the famed local
scallops take pride of place when the season begins in
October!
www.bessin-normandie.com
Don’t miss…
Oyster bed tours by horse and cart
Gouville-sur-Mer, Manche
Take a tour of the Gouville-sur-Mer oyster beds by horse
and cart with the Attelage des Grandes Marées.
http://ot.gouvillesurmer.free.fr
Don’t miss…
Low-tide fishing on foot
Agon-Coutainville
The miles of sand dunes and golden beaches along
Manche’s Atlantic coast provide the perfect backdrop
for fishing on foot. Cockles, clams and crabs can be
found in abundance in the great expanses of sand and
fascinating rock pools revealed by the low tide. The
luckiest fisherman may even bag themselves a lobster or
two! There are rules to be respected so make sure you’re
not doing anything you shouldn’t be by joining in with one
of the guided outings during the school holidays!
www.coutainville.com
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12

Out of the Ordinary
As well as its famous cheeses and apple-based tipple,
Normandy is also home to some more unusual and lesserknown
delicacies…
Cookery class with a twist
La Chaumière aux Orties, La Haye-de-Routot
Take a trip to the 17th Century Chaumière aux Orties (or Nettle
Thatched Cottage) nestled in this little countryside town where
wild plants and flowers are often top of the menu! Discover,
identify and gather local wild products such as dandelions,
nettles and ground ivy and supplement recipes with these
forgotten flavours. The cookery lessons, led by connoisseur
Michèle Lesage, aim to bring plants back to people’s palates.
These activities and other related events take place on Sundays
between March and September.
http://web.mac.com/lahayederoutot
Perfect Parachutes
Sainte-Mère-Eglise, Manche
Plunge a delicious parachute-shaped shortbread biscuit into
your tea, or turn to a Petit-Para, a soft almond flavoured
parachute cake, for an afternoon treat. The biscuit factory at
Sainte-Mère-Eglise has dedicated these products to the D-Day
landings, when thousands of paratroopers landed around the
town, the first to be liberated by American troops in June 1944.
www.biscuit-sainte-mere-eglise.com
Scrummy Sausages
Andouille, Vire
In the meadows of the Vire valley, the local talent for rearing
cattle and pigs gave rise to traditional produce such as tripe,
smoked ham and the special ‘Andouille de Vire’ (smoked pork
sausage made from chitterlings). The festival ‘Andouille de Vire’
is held annually on 1st November.
www.bocage-normand.com
A mysterious elixir
Fécamp, Seine-Maritime
To uncover the history of Bénédictine, we must travel back in
time to the Renaissance period when a Benedictine monk from
Fécamp Abbey, created a mysterious elixir. Produced by monks
until the 18th Century, the secret of the drink was lost during
the conflicts of the centuries that followed. The recipe was not
rediscovered until 1863 when a merchant, named Alexander
the Great, was inspired to recreate the strange liqueur now
known as Bénédictine. www.benedictine.fr/anglais
Don’t miss…
Palais Bénédictine, Fécamp
Following the success of Bénédictine, in 1882, Alexander
the Great had the grand Benedictine Palace built to
house the distillery where the mysterious liqueur is still
produced to this day. Visit the palace to discover the
extensive art collections and take a sensory journey
through the world of the 27 Bénédictine plants and
spices.
Chocolate with a twist
Ferme Le Valaine, Etretat
Close to the famous hills at
Etretat, the Le Valaine farm
specialises in products
made from goat’s milk,
including cheese,
ice-cream and even
chocolate! Agnès and
Bernard Dherbecourt
have been raising their
herd of sixty goats
since 1981 and began
making their popular
cheese in 1998. Now the
most sought-after product
from the farm, the chocolate,
comes in eight different flavours:
original, orange, lemon, almond,
coffee, hazelnut, Bénédictine and
Calvados. Le Valaine’s slogan says it all: ‘Tu
craques, Tu Croques, Tu Fonds!’ – Try It, Taste it, Love it!
www.levalaine.com
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Food Festivals in Normandy
There is nothing like visiting Normandy for yourself to really get a flavour for the fantastic gastronomic heritage and what better
time to do so than during one of the region’s food festivals? Here is just a selection of the main food events taking place over
the coming months.
4 th - 5 th May
Aux Rencontres de Cambremer
Cambremer, Calvados
This festival celebrates the exceptional local produce
that has been awarded the prestigious AOC status.
Highlights include markets, workshops, tasting
sessions and cookery demonstrations.
www.lesrencontresdecambremer.fr
27 th -28 th July
Fête de la Mer et du Maquereau
Trouville-sur-Mer, Calvados
Annual festival dedicated to the town’s
thriving fishing industry. The
atmosphere is guaranteed to be
festive with market stalls, sea
shanties and fishing trips.
www.trouvillesurmer.org
3 th - 4 th August
Foire aux Fromages
Livarot, Calvados
This traditional festival brings together the best
of France’s cheeses and guarantees great
entertainment with a costume parade and even a
competition to determine who can eat the most
Livarot!
www.paysdelivarot.fr/tourisme/accueil
18 th September -20 th October
Fête de la Pomme
Pays d’Auge, Calvados
Numerous events and activities are organised
across the Pays d’Auge area during this week-long
celebration of the humble apple. Learn more about
the different products and dishes that are made from
this sweet and juicy fruit.
www.festivalpomme.sitew.com
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14

19 th -20 th October
Fête du Ventre et de la Gastronomie Normande
Rouen, Seine-Maritime
Celebration of the ancient culinary traditions of
Rouen. Market stalls full of Norman specialities
cover the Old Market Square and spill over in to the
surrounding streets of Rouen’s historic city centre.
www.rouentourisme.com
Early October
Fête de la Crevette
Honfleur, Calvados
Annual festival celebrating Honfleur’s speciality, the
shrimp, alongside a host of this pretty port’s maritime
traditions.
www.ot-honfleur.fr
9 th -10 th November
Festival Goût du Large
Port en Bessin, Calvados
Annual scallop and seafood festival that takes place
alongside the European sea shanty festival.
www.bessin-normandie.com
5 th - 6 th October
Festival Coquillages et Crustacés
Granville, Manche
France’s first shellfish port welcomes 35,000 visitors
to its seafood festival every year. Over 15 tonnes
of shellfish are on sale direct from the fishermen
themselves at this buzzing event.
www.granville.cci.fr
Early
October
Mycologiades Internationales de Bellême
Bellême, Orne
Amateur and professional mycologists set out into
the Norman forests and countryside in search of the
very best wild mushrooms.
www.mycologiades.com
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

World War II in Normandy
Nowhere is the memory of the Second World War more intense than along Normandy’s northern coastline, famous for its role
in turning around World War II on 6th June 1944, when allied forces successfully broke through Nazi defences. Coming face
to face with this historical landscape, is a very powerful and moving experience. From Sainte-Mère-Eglise in la Manche to the
beaches of Dieppe in Seine-Maritime, the coastline is dotted with war memorials and museums commemorating the soldiers of
all nationalities who lost their lives.
Merville-Franceville Battery
Calvados
One of the most complex military actions of Operation
Overlord took place at the Merville-Franceville battery when
young Lieutenant-Colonel Otway led the heroic British 9th
Parachute Battalion to neutralise this strategic position. Set
up in Casemate 1, the battery museum plays testament to the
life-changing experiences of the young men on both sides,
hundreds of whom lost their lives in the operation. A realistic
sound and light reconstruction and original artefacts from the
soldiers themselves bring the momentous operation to life.
www.batterie-merville.com
Le Musée du Débarquement at Utah Beach
Sainte-Marie-du-Mont - Manche
A simulator experience of a Martin B-26 fighter jet and a new
wing to host more WWII memorabilia were added in 2011 and
this year will see the museum mark its 50th anniversary. The
site was originally built in 1962 from a German bunker with
the aim of preserving the memory of the American troops who
landed on Utah Beach.
www.utah-beach.com
Musée du Débarquement
Arromanches, Calvados
Situated in the ‘Place du 6 juin’ opposite the actual artificial
Mulberry harbour, this museum is devoted to the incredible
feat of technology achieved by the British troops. The artificial
harbours were built in the UK and then transported across the
Channel and positioned just off the Normandy coasts, providing
British troops with the opportunity to offload thousands of men,
vehicles and supplies in order for them to be able to launch
Operation Overlord.
www.musee-arromanches.fr
Arromanches 360˚ Cinema
Calvados
Unique in the landing beaches area, the 360°
cinema at Arromanches is one of only three
circular cinemas in France. The film,
The Prince of Freedom, combines
unreleased footage from June 1944
and present-day images shot in now
peaceful settings. Allow yourself to
be transported back to the action
amongst the soldiers on D-Day,
floating along the pontoons at
Arromanches, flying over the Pointe
du Hoc and coming ashore at Omaha
Beach.
www.arromanches360.com
Airborne Museum
Sainte-Mère-Eglise, Manche
Sainte-Mère-Eglise was the first town to be liberated by
US troops on D-Day and 180,000 people visit the town’s
museum each year. Dedicated entirely to
the liberating forces, highlights of this
museum include a WACO glider in
its original condition and one of
the Douglas C47 aircrafts that
towed the gliders across the
channel during Operation
Overlord. An 1800m2
expansion to the museum
has now commenced to
accommodate more tanks
and aircrafts never before
exhibited.
www.musee-airborne.com
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16

Don't miss in 2014
D-Day 70th anniversary celebrations
The memory lives on... 2014 marks the 70th anniversary
of the D-Day landings. This pivotal moment in world history
will be commemorated by local residents, veterans and
their families on the beaches, memorials and in towns
throughout the ronwards.
www.normandy-dday.com
Did you know?
You can now have everything you need to know about
World War II in Normandy at your fingertips with the
new D-Day and Normandy app from PocketLocations.
com, which is now available to download from iTunes
straight to your iPhone. Location pins direct the user
to battlefields, museums and cemeteries along the
Normandy coastline with further information for each
location explained with text and images.
www.pocketlocations.com
Historic Trail of 1944
Carentan, Manche
Explore the liberation of Carentan, where 20,000 American
paratroopers landed. Download the map to guide yourself
around a three hour tour of the stunning scenery of the
Regional Natural Parks and beautiful villages of France that
covers 13 sites crucial to the liberation of this area.
www.carentan-circuit-44.com
Relive history in a World War II Jeep
Manche
Visit the battlefields in a WWII Jeep! Almost 640,000 Jeeps
were produced between December 1941 and the summer of
1945, with a warfare life expectancy of 90 days. Being small
and compact, it could be transported to battle areas by plane
or glider, dropped by parachute, or floated across a river,
carrying 3 easily and 6 at a pinch. Discover one of the best
motors of World War II and cross the fields and beaches, once
the battlefields of combat.
www.manche-locationvacances.com
Caen Memorial
Calvados
One of the most visited
European memorials
with up to 400,000
visitors each year.
The ‘World War,
Total War’ area
of the memorial
dedicated to WWII
has been totally
transformed,
taking account of
the latest historical
research so that
visitors benefit from
a global perspective of
the conflict. New exhibitions
include, “6th June and the Battle of
Normandy”, and “Designs for Peace”.
www.memorial-caen.fr
Don’t miss…
D-Day Festival, Bayeux/Bessin/Landing Beaches
5th-9th June 2013
The first town to be liberated by the British on D-Day,
Bayeux-Bessin marks the 68th anniversary of the Allied
Landings in 1944 with the 6th edition of its D-Day
Festival. On the bill this year are firework displays, picnics,
military vehicle parade and even a parachute drop!
www.sainte-mere-eglise.info
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

D-Day seen from the sea
Departing from Port-en-Bessin, the “Pays du Bessin” motorboat
can board a hundred passengers for a unique discovery of the
Day Landing beaches, the American sector in particular.
Three different routes take visitors to the heart of the artificial
harbour in Arromanches, to Omaha Beach and to Pointe du
Hoc. The Pays du Bessin’s captain, Olivier, is at his
microphone to offer a running commentary throughout the tour.
www.lesvedettesdenormandie.fr
The Battle of Normandy online
Find out more about the ceremonies that will commemorate
D-Day, June 6th 1944, as well as information on the monuments
and sites of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy , on the
Normandie Memoire website
www.normandy-dday.com
18

UNESCO Normandy
Normandy boasts no less than five sites and attractions that have been recognised by UNESCO for their world heritage status. Take
it from the experts that a visit to these places makes a trip to Normandy truly worthwhile.
Bayeux Tapestry
Bayeux, Calvados
William of Normandy’s famous victory at Hastings is retold
through the Bayeux Tapestry, a hand-woven 70m long
masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship. Actually an embroidery,
this wonder of the 11th century has been remarkably preserved
and now acts as an essential historical source on the way of life
in the Middle Ages.
Excellent audio guides are an essential part of the tour and a
simplified version of the commentary is available for kids. Follow
the story along the 58 scenes of the relic, then have all your
questions answered by colourful displays and models in the
exhibition room and a short film in the cinema.
www.tapisserie-bayeux.fr
Did you know?
The Bayeux Tapestry has only twice left the town of
Bayeux: once during the time of Napoleon, when he used
it to convince his men that the English could be beaten
and a second time during World War II to prevent it from
damage.
Le Havre, Seine-Maritime
The Second World War wreaked havoc on the port of Le
Havre, with 80% of the city being completely destroyed in
the bombings. Rebuilt following
the architectural plans of
Auguste Perret, the city
centre was added
to the UNESCO
World Heritage
list in 2005.
With its
unique
modern
stained
glass
windows
and 106
metre high bell
tower, the Saint
Joseph Church,
designed by Perret’s
pupil Le Corbusier, is
particularly worth a visit. A
former hub of cotton and coffee
trading, don’t miss the newly restored Vauban Docks. Now
a buzzing dockside development of restaurants, shops and
leisure facilities, highlights include the Bains des Docks Spa,
beautifully designed by architect Jean Nouvel.
www.le-havre-tourisme.com
Don’t miss…
Find out more about ‘Les Bains des Docks’ in our ‘Spas
and Golf Courses’ section of the press pack.
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Vauban Tower and fortifications
Manche
The wild beauty of Tatihou Island has long been enhanced
by its imposing tower. Completed in 1699, UNESCO officially
recognised the architectural and historical importance of the
21m high tower in July 2008. This impressive fortification,
designed by Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, a Royal Engineer
in the 17th Century, included a gunpowder store, sleeping
quarters, canon-platform and fortified farm complete with
barracks and chapel.
www.sites-vauban.org
Don’t miss…
Crossing the bay barefoot
Just as the pilgrims of the Middle Ages once did,
visitors can cross to the Mont-Saint-Michel on foot. The
organisations of Chemins de la Baie and Découverte de
la Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel offer guided rambles in the
bay, with special versions for families.
www.cheminsdelabaie.com
www.traverseebaie.com
Alençon Lace
Orne
Using only a needle and thread, the Alençon lace making
technique and unique craft, ‘Point
d’Alençon’, was developed in the
17th century and practised by
up to 8000 women at that
time. The material was
named ‘queen of all
laces’ at the first
Universal Exhibition
in Brighton in
1851. Today
the industry
employs six
people and the
technique takes
up to a decade to
master. UNESCO
has recognised it
as a cultural treasure
that deserves to be
protected. This world
heritage listing should
ensure that the practice
does not die out with the current
generation of lace makers.
www.paysdalencontourisme.com
Did you know?
The Normandy landing beaches have submitted their
case to UNESCO to be included on the World Heritage
list in 2014, which would coincide with the 70th
anniversary of the D-Day landings.
Le Mont-Saint-Michel
Manche
Truly an architectural wonder, the Mont-Saint-Michel is
Normandy’s most distinctive monument. Perched atop a rocky
island, the awe-inspiring abbey rises majestically out of the
sea in a beautiful natural bay. Completed in 1521, the original
abbey took more than 500 years to construct and was named
after the Archangel Michael. Crossing the marshes barefoot
at low tide is a wonderfully peaceful way to reach the ancient
monastic centre of the mount.
www.ot-montsaintmichel.com
20
20

Restoring the Mont-Saint-Michel
Saving Mont-Saint-Michel from the sands: An operation of
worldwide and nationwide interest
Restoring Mont-Saint-Michel to its marine setting is part of
a great ambition: to conduct an in-depth renovation of the
landscape that serves as a jewel-case to one of mankind’s
major shrines, and renew the path of discovery of the site, in
the spirit of the pilgrims crossing over.
Mont-Saint-Michel stands in a bay with breathtaking scenery
and ecosystems. It is a spot of unmatched beauty that features
twice in UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites (1979).
However, in the short term, Mont-Saint-Michel is facing the
threat of becoming irremediably landlocked. Around the rock,
silting has worsened over the centuries and with successive
human interventions – reclamation, the building of the causeway,
and the dam fitted with floating sluice-gates- colonisation by
plant life continues. The natural sands are also spoilt by the
presence of a parking area.
Europe, the French State and the local and regional authorities
have joined forces in recovering the spirit of the place so
that this treasure of all mankind should remain a sought-after
monument for generations to come.
Agenda:
2012 > The new parking area on the mainland and the public
transport shuttles will be in place to carry visitors to the Mont.
2014 < A final stage is to be reached with completion of the
pedestrian bridge and, still more symbolically in 2015, with the
destruction of the causeway after over a century.
For more information visit: www.projetmontsaintmichel.fr
Press Contact: Annie Bellier: annie.bellier@veoliatransdev.com
The idea is to restore a marine setting to Mont-Saint-Michel
with tidal water all around on a regular basis, by using the
combined power of the water from the incoming tide and from
the River Couesnon. Reclaiming the sands in this way also
means doing away with the 15 hectares of car and coach parks,
as well as the causeway linking the rocky island to the mainland,
as they have blocked the tidal currents for over 130 years.
The idea is also to have a completely new approach to the
monument for the annual 3 million sightseers. From the
mainland up to the Mont, a new approach road is to be
constructed: you arrive at a parking area with reception and
information services, 2.5 km (1.5 miles) from the Mont, and take
the footpaths or public transport shuttle. You will then be able
to enjoy the old spirit of crossing over to Mont-Saint-Michel,
making the time needed to take in the bay scenery, stopping off
at the dam then the pedestrian footbridge offering an unbroken
view of Tombelaine rock, Mont-Saint-Michel and the bay.
Did you know?
The Seine Valley and Côte d’Albâtre have also made their
bid to join the prestigious list.
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Medieval Normandy
William the Conqueror
One of the most brilliant warriors of all time, William the
Conqueror will be forever remembered for the Battle of
Hastings when he rode to victory to become
King of England in 1066. Born
England.
out of wedlock to Robert
the Magnificent and a
poor peasant woman,
William was originally
known as William
the Bastard,
despite being
rightful heir to
the Dukedom.
When Robert
died in 1035
William was just
eight years old
but eventually he
was able to claim
his birthright as the
7th Duke of Normandy,
going on to make history
by also becoming King of
www.lafabuleuseepopee.com/en/link
Make a date…
Fêtes Médiévales de Bayeux
6th-7th July 2013
A celebration of the Middle Ages in the medieval town
of Bayeux with jesters, jugglers, minstrels, knights
and artisans. Expect to be swept up in the maelstrom
of medieval markets, street entertainment, costume
parades and workshops with medieval taverns and local
restaurants rustling up delicacies, some cooked
medieval-style!
www.bessin-normandie.com
Château de Falaise
Falaise, Calvados
The story of how William the Bastard became William, Duke
of Normandy and King of England begins at Falaise, where he
was born in 1027. Tour the two castle keeps where William
grew up and the 13th century round tower, all painstakingly
restored. Visitors can also experience key moments in the
building’s illustrious history through a self-guided audio-visual
tour in English with a version for adults and also for children.
www.chateau-guillaume-le-conquerant.fr
Bayeux Tapestry
Bayeux, Calvados
See the ‘UNESCO’ section of the press pack to learn more
about this ‘Memory of the World’.
www.tapisserie-bayeux.fr
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Abbaye aux Hommes and Abbaye aux Dames
Caen, Calvados
Although virtually destroyed during World War II, Caen
miraculously retained its two magnificent abbeys, the Abbaye
aux Hommes, founded by William himself, and the Abbaye aux
Dames, founded by his beloved wife Matilda, as offerings to the
pope to grant them permission to get married. William’s tomb
can be found in the abbey church of Saint-Etienne.
www.tourisme.caen.fr
Make a date…
Rendez-vous à la Cathédrale
16th July-31st August 2013
Illuminations are projected onto Bayeux Cathedral and
the courtyard of the Hôtel du Doyen at dusk. The majestic
masterpiece of Gothic architecture is shown in its best
light and images and music recount the 2000 years of
history of the town and the Bessin area.
www.bessin-normandie.com
Did you know?
Richard the Lionheart loved the city of Rouen so much
that he ordered his heart to be buried there in the city
after his death. His tomb can be round in the choir of the
majestic cathedral.
Château Gaillard
Les Andelys, Eure
High above the village
of Les Andelys, on a
sharp bend in the
River Seine, stand
the remains of
an impressive
stronghold.
This is Château
Gaillard, Richard
the Lionheart’s
Normandy castle,
perched on a cliff over
100m high. Built in just
one year, from 1197 to
1198, and designed to protect
Richard’s duchy of Normandy, much
of the original fortress still remains and is open to visitors. Les
Andelys also hosts a weekend festival of medieval events each
year in June.
www.les–andelys.com/chateau-gaillard.com
Make a date…
Les Médiévales de Crèvecoeur
4th-11th August 2013
For one week every August, the grounds and castle at
Crèvecoeur are transported back to the Middle Ages
as historical groups, skilled craftsmen, professionals
and enthusiasts recreate life as it would have been at
Crèvecoeur in the middle of the 15th Century. Historians
and archaeologists conduct meticulous research to
ensure every scene is historically accurate and that
visitors really do feel like they are witnessing the daily life
of 600 years ago.
www.chateau-de-crevecoeur.com
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Parks and Gardens in Normandy
In Normandy, the water, the light, the colours, the gentle landscapes and the rich heritage all lend themselves perfectly to the
gardener’s art. The region boasts over 100 gardens open to the public, many of which host special events and activities. Here
is our pick of where to go and what to see in 2013.
Les Jardins de la Mansonière
Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, Orne
These gardens are
perched on one of
the hills overlooking
the river Sarthe, a
stone’s throw from
Saint-Cénerile-Gérei,
one of
France’s most
beautiful villages.
The gardens’
special, dreamlike
atmosphere invites
visitors to relax and
unwind whilst wandering
the nine themed areas.
Open from 12th April to 15th
September.
www.mansoniere.fr
Not to be missed…
Classical Music by Candlelight
On three occasions during the summer, les Jardins de
la Mansonière will be illuminated by over 800 candles,
providing the perfect backdrop for a series of classical
concerts.
Abbaye Saint-Georges de Boscherville
Seine-Maritime
This garden has been restored in a 17th century style, harking
back to the time when it was first planted out by Benedictine
monks. Architecturally, it combines the tradition of medieval
abbey gardens with that of Italian Renaissance terraced
gardens and is home to eighty varieties of medicinal plants as
well as a wealth of orchards, vines and flowerbeds. From the
garden, visitors can admire the superb view of the abbey and
the Seine Valley.
www.abbaye-saint-georges.com
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Château de Miromesnil Park and Garden
Tourville-sur-Arques, Seine-Maritime
Nestled between a beech forest and the impressive Château de
Miromesnil, this abundant plot is a fine example of a traditional
kitchen garden and was awarded the Grand Prix 2011 by the
French National Horticultural Society for its combination of
traditional gardening and its artistic use of colour. Visitors won’t
fail to be bowled over by Miromesnil’s charm.
http://v2.chateaumiromesnil.com/
Claude Monet’s Garden
Giverny, Eure
Claude Monet’s property in Giverny, where he lived from 1833
to 1926, has now become the Claude Monet Foundation. The
gardens have been replanted as they would have been during
the time of the well-known painter-gardener who was ‘crazy
about flowers’. No trip to Giverny would be complete without a
glimpse of the famous ‘Water Garden’ with its Japanese Bridge,
inspiration for the pictorial universe of the water lilies.
www.fondation-monet.com
Not to be missed…
Christmas Market at the Château Miromesnil
30th November - 1st December
For one weekend only the château and its grounds
welcome visitors to embrace the Christmas spirit. Marvel
at the giant Christmas tree, treat your loved ones to some
early presents from the traditional market and top it all off
by tucking into some delicious delicacies by an open fire.
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Golf and Spa Breaks in Normandy
Normandy is a land where the golfer is king! With 40 golf courses stretching the length and breadth of the region, it is a major
European destination for all golf enthusiasts. On the coast, along cliff-tops, amidst sand-dunes and among the hedgerows of the
rolling countryside, Normandy’s golf courses provide an array of different challenges to all levels of players.
For those who prefer to while away the hours in a more relaxed atmosphere, Normandy, with its thermal springs and coastal resorts,
is home to a number of top class spas alongside thalasso- and hydrotherapy centres.
Thalazur
Cabourg, Calvados
Green Swing
Caen, Calvados
Golf Compact de Louvigny offers a new generation in golf
practice thanks to its eco-friendly synthetic tees and greens.
With a 6-hole course including both par 3 and par 4 holes,
along with a 28-bay range, this good value short course is
the ideal place for beginners to hit their first shots or more
experienced players to hone their swing. There is also a friendly
club house offering light refreshments.
www.golfcompactlouvigny.com
February 2013 will see the opening of a new 4* hotel
and spa resort in the iconic seaside resort of Cabourg.
This new luxury establishment is part of the Thalazur brand
and has been designed to offer guests a haven of peace
and tranquillity in which to relax. All of the 164 en-suite
bedrooms have a balcony with garden or sea-views
and are spacious with contemporary colour schemes.
The hotel’s extensive spa and fitness centre provides
access to hydrotherapy treatments as well as Jacuzzi,
sauna, steam room, swimming pool and gym.
Prices: Fr € eekend Package’ (including 4
treatments plus one night half-board)
For more information please visit: http://cabourg.thalazur.fr
Did you know?
You can download the official Normandy Golf Guide from
the ‘Sport and Activities’ section of the Normandy Tourist
Board website.
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Previthal
Granville, Manche
This new Institut Previthal offers the very best in
thalassotherapeutic treatments with top of the range facilities
including a hydrotherapy room, relaxing spa area and Thalgo
beauty salon. In order to make thalassotherapy accessible to
a wider audience, Previthal offers a wide range of tailored
packages and treatments at competitive prices, making it one
of the best value centres of its kind in France. The centre also
boasts a 3* Best Western Hotel with 76 rooms, 60 of which
offer stunning views out over the beach. The carefully chosen
natural colour palette and coastal-inspired decor ensure create
a harmonious and relaxing environment for the hotel’s guests.
Find out more on www.previthal.com
SPOM
Saint-St-Aubin-de-Bonneval, Orne
This old half-timbered apple press has been fully restored
using natural materials and houses the newly opened spa
‘Spom’. The name may sound slightly odd to the English ear
but, of course, it is a clever play on the French words ‘spa’ and
‘pomme’ (apple)! And one thing’s for sure…this spa certainly
draws inspiration from its name.
Normandy is famous for its vast orchards and it is these local
apples, of all shape, size and colour, that are mixed with other
natural ingredients to provide the products used during the
treatments.
Think massages using apple seed oil and apple compote or
even cider gel wraps! Let this fabulous fruit do its work and you
are sure to come away feeling fresh and rejuvenated.
Open from Thursday to
Saturday
Tel: +33 (0) 2 33 36 90 79
www.institut-spa-de-la-pomme.fr
B’O Thermal Spa
Bagnoles-de-l’Orne, Orne
This new spa is situated at the heart of the world-renowned
thermal resort of Bagnoles-de-l’Orne and offers the very
best in hydrotherapy treatments. Natural mineral water from
the surrounding area is combined with the cleansing and
rejuvenating qualities of one of Normandy’s best known fruitsthe
apple.
The brand new centre has over 50 state of the art rooms for
beauty treatments along with thermal water baths, sauna,
mineral steam room and relaxation area offering a selection of
herbal teas.
Packages from € 89
Open 7 days a week between March and November
www.bo-spathermal.com
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Equestrian Normandy
Normandy is the perfect destination for horse lovers thanks to its lush rolling countryside and many equestrian centres offering
something for everyone, from absolute beginner to experienced jockey. Horseback is the perfect way to discover the hidden beauty
of Normandy so why not hire a horse for the day to trot along bridleways, meander through forest and woodland or even gallop
along the beach.
Enthusiasts and professionals are also well catered for with up to 4000 annual equestrian events taking place across the region,
including several international competitions such as the ‘Jumping International’ in Caen or the Polo Cup in Deauville. Also, don’t
miss our introduction to 2014’s World Equestrian Games on the next page…
Stud farms
The region is home to two French national stud farms, Le
Haras du Pin, a magnificent 18th century ‘Versailles for horses’
built in 1714 by Louis XIV and Le Haras de Saint-Lô, built in
1806 and dedicated to the breeding of Selle Français (French
Warmblood), Norman Cob and Percheron.
Nowadays, the Haras du Pin’s main activity is controlled
breeding to strengthen and maintain bloodlines but the centre
is also open to the public, offering guided tours of the grounds
and enabling visitors to learn about everything from breeding,
to care and training. The Saint-Lô stud now breeds pedigree
animals principally for sporting and leisure activities and is home
to 150 stallions from 7 different races.
Trekking in Normandy
A completely new ‘National Stud Route’ route has been devised to
enable horse enthusiasts to trek across 190km of glorious
Normandy countryside between the region’s two national stud
farms in Le Pin-au-Haras and St Lô. The route can be divided into 9
smaller stages, all of which highlight the richness and diversity of
Normandy’s history, culture and landscape. Each of the shorter
stages incorporates one or more local equestrian centres at which
both riders and horses can take a well earned break. Route maps
for each sector are free to download and include plenty of practical
information to help you plan your trek.
Download maps and information at www.chevalnormandie.com
Make a date
Les Jeudis du Pin
Le Haras du Pin, Orne
Every Thursday - 6thJune to 26th September 2013
Visitors are treated to amazing displays of dressage and
show-jumping as the magnificent Colbert Courtyard is
transformed into an outdoor theatre for these spectacular
weekly shows- the actors being none other than the
horses themselves!
www.haras-national-du-pin.fr
Abbey Trail on horseback
La Manche
This horse riding trail through the department of La Manche
is the perfect opportunity for equestrian fans to discover five
Norman abbeys along a 155km journey through peaceful,
quiet lanes that meander through the hedgerows and along
the banks of the River Vire. The trail ends with a crossing of the
Mont-Saint-Michel bay surrounded by spectacular scenery.
www.mancherandonnee.com
Pôle International du Cheval
Deauville, Calvados
Already home to a leading race track at La Touques, Deauville
now has a new international equestrian centre, with a riding
school, 3 indoor and 3 outdoor arenas and a restaurant. The
centre will attract international show jumping and dressage
events and host international teams preparing for the 2014
World Equestrian Games, as well as serving the local
equestrian community.
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Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014
The build up has begun as Normandy prepares to host the
Make a dateè
2014 World Equestrian Games.
Le Normandie Horse Show
The region faced stiff competition from other potential host
3rd-12th August 2012
regions but read the facts and figures below and it is easy to
Saint-Lô, Manche
see why Normandy, one of Europe’s leading equestrian regions,
25th edition of this horse show brings together the
came away with the victory.
winners of regional competitions in categories such as
France’s leading horse breeding region with over 8,300
best of breed. This year will also see the festival host the
breeders and 10,000 births per year
horse ball ‘Nations Cup’.
Home to 40% of French racehorses
Nearly 1000 stallions siring half the thoroughbred,
French Trotter and French Saddle horses in France
Over 800 square miles of pastures devoted to the
equine industry
300 riding centres
31 hippodromes
€620 million in horse sales
2 national and 24 private stud farms
Home to the Institute of Horse Pathology, the only one
of its kind in the world
Deauville Normandie Airport specialises in equine air
transportation
Make a date
The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014
24th August – 7th September 2014
The centre of Caen, the regional capital of Lower
Normandy, will be transformed into a huge ‘equestrian
stadium’ where events in seven of the eight disciplines will
take place. The eighth, a long-distance endurance ride,
will run between the Haras du Pin and the Bay of Mont-
Saint-Michel. This exceptional 100 mile ride will enable
competitors and visitors from around the world to discover
Normandy’s countryside, forests, hedgerows and old
Roman roads.
Two demonstration events, horseball in Saint-Lô and Polo
in Deauville, will round off the programme of events.
The World Equestrian Games aim to combine sporting
excellence with celebrating equestrian sports, promoting
the knowledge of France and Normandy’s equine industry
and making the event part of an economic and tourist
development strategy.
www.normandie2014.com
Need to know!
2 weeks of competition
8 disciplines
1000 horses
1000 competitors
60 nations represented
500,000 visitors
500 million TV viewers
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Sport and Adventure in Normandy
Whether you’re a beginner or a die-hard enthusiast, Normandy’s impressive coastlines, sweeping valleys, mystical forests and
open countryside provide the perfect backdrop for lots of outdoor sports and activities
Walking and Cycling
Normandy is truly a walking and cycling paradise. With nearly
2,000 miles of long-distance hiking trails to choose from,
together with a wide network of planned itineraries in every
possible type of environment, walkers in Normandy have the
world literally at their feet. Cyclists can also find their own little
piece of tranquillity, criss-crossing the region following the
extensive network of ‘green ways’. Further details of maps and
routes are available on the Normandy Tourist Board website.
D-Day beaches to the Mont-Saint-Michel
A new 230km cycle route has been opened to link the world
famous sites of the D-Day beaches and the iconic Mont-Saint-
Michel. The route alternates between green ways and quiet
country roads, making it safe for the whole family to enjoy, and
invites them to discover the wealth of cultural heritage that
Normandy has to offer. Along the way cyclists will have the
chance to retrace the steps of the allied soldiers during the
Normandy landings as well as take in two UNESCO heritage
sites: in the Bayeux Tapestry and the Mont-Saint-Michel.
Choose to set off from either Utah Beach or Arromanches and
why not stop off at the AJ Hackett Extreme Sports Centre
where the two routes meet, before setting off on the final stage
towards the Mont-Saint-Michel?
Did you know?
The London to Paris cycle route, created in conjunction
with the Olympic Games, begins its French leg in
Normandy. The route starts at the picturesque port of
Dieppe, travelling along the green ways through the
village of Neufchâtel-en-Bray, famous for its heart-shaped
cheese, the ancient spa town of Forges-les-Eaux and on
towards the French capital.
Paris to the Mont-Saint-Michel
With over 440km of cycle-friendly roads and pathways,
the Véloscénie route is the perfect way to take in some of
France’s most iconic sites including the Eiffel Tower,
Chartres cathedral, the Mont-Saint-Michel and many other
hidden gems of the Normandy countryside. The route is
accessible to cyclists of all ages and abilities and can be
split up into 8 different stages, which differ in length and
difficulty. The majority of the sections that weave through
Normandy can be integrated into other cycle routes,
including the two mentioned above, so that cyclists can
tailor each of the routes to suit their needs and abilities.
Extreme Sports
Normandy boasts its fair
share of adventure!
From ‘hanging
around’ at the
Soulevre Viaduct
to soaring over
the valleys of
Eure, these
sports are not
for the faint
hearted.
AJ Hackett
Extreme Sports
Centre
Soulevre Viaduct,
Calvados
Daredevils will go wild for the
AJ Hackett centre at the old Soulevre
Viaduct. Platforms erected along the viaduct invite visitors to
admire the view before they jump off to experience it upside
down! As well as bungee jumping from the viaduct, try racing
across the valley on a zip wire, braving the swing experience or
following the adventure course through the trees.
www.ajhackett.fr
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Normandy Microlight
Avranches, Manche
Get a bird’s eye view of the magnificent Mont-Saint-Michel and
its surrounding area as you take to the skies in a microlight.
Regis Mao has over 15 years experience in flying light aircraft
and he has devised a range of special packages for visitors
who wish to experience this thrill for the first time. For those
who don’t have a head for heights, Regis also offers short
training sessions in the newest environmentally friendly way to
of travelling around the bay- the segway scooter. After learning
how to handle the machine, you are free to take to the paths
and enjoy the scenery on your own scooter cruise.
www.normandie-ulm.com
Canoeing and Kayaking
Those who wish to see some of the lush Norman countryside
will enjoy kayaking or canoeing down the Orne River
Did you know?
The ICF Canoe Polo World Championships will take place
in Thury-Harcourt during the 3rd week of September in
2014.
www.canoeicf.com
Authentik Aventure
Romilly-sur-Andelle, Eure
Nestled in the valley of the Andelle River, this sports
organisation offers a whole range of outdoor activities
including canoeing and kayaking. Adventurers also get
the chance to learn about the natural history of these
landscapes whether on a descent down the River Seine
or at the summit of a cliff.
www.authentikaventure.fr
Beau Rivage
Clécy, Calvados
Why not take time to admire the lush Norman countryside
whilst canoeing down the tranquil River Orne? This activity
centre, ideally placed within easy reach of Caen, Rouen and
Saint-Lô, is open between Easter and October and offers a
wide array of river-based activities such as kayaking, canoeing
and pedalos.
contact@beau-rivage-clecy.fr
Diving
Normandy’s coastline has created some fascinating diving
spots. In parts, the wreckage of D-Day has left its mark, whilst
areas along old maritime routes conceal a host of wrecks
waiting to be explored. Don’t miss the Channel’s soft coral reefs
Section Plongée Leo Lagrange
Asnelles Diving Centre, Calvados
The sea here is littered with the remnants of the enormous
military operation which took place along this stretch of the
Normandy coastline during the night of 5th/6th June 1944
and the weeks building up to it. The centre welcomes Englishspeaking
divers.
www.asnelles-plongee-leo-lagrange.com
Pôle Plongée Normandie
Tourlaville, Manche
In the area around the Cotentin Peninsula divers can discover
the wreck of a huge transatlantic ship, as well as steam boats,
patrol boats, trawlers, tugs and even a plane!
http://poleplongeenormandie.org
Don’t miss…
Information on many other sports and activities, from
sand yachting and kite surfing to hiking and fishing, is
available in Normandy is available on the ‘Sport and
Activities’ section of our website.
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org

Press Contacts
Edouard Valere
Deputy Marketing Manager
Comité Régional de Tourisme de Normandie
14 rue Charles Corbeau
27000 Evreux
France
Tel. +33 (0) 2 32 33 07 07
e.valere@normandie-tourisme.fr
www.normandy-tourism.org
Valérie Joannon
Marketing Assistant
Comité Régional de Tourisme de Normandie
14 rue Charles Corbeau
27000 Evreux
France
Tel. +33 (0) 2 32 33 94 12
v.joannon@normandie-tourisme.fr
www.normandy-tourism.org
Normandy Departmental Tourist Board Press Contacts
Armelle LE GOFF
Calvados
14054 Caen Cedex 4
8, rue Renoir
Tél. +33 (0)2 31 27 90 37
a.legoff@calvados.fr
www.calvados-tourisme.com
Press Contacts
Carole RAUBER
Orne
86 rue Saint Blaise
61002 Alençon Cédex
Tél. +33 (0)2 33 28 83 66
c.rauber@ornetourisme.com
www.ornetourisme.com
Capucine d’HALLUIN
Eure
Hôtel du Département
Boulevard Georges Chauvin
BP 367
27003 Evreux Cedex
Tél. +33 (0)2 32 62 84 32
capucine.dhalluin@eure-tourisme.fr
www.eure-tourisme.fr
Estelle CLABAUX
Seine-Maritime
6, rue Couronné
BP60 – 76420 Bihorel
Tél. : +33 (0)2 35 12 16 11
estelle.clabaux@cdt76.fr
www.seine-maritime-tourisme.com
Sophie BOUGEARD
Manche
Maison du Département
98, route de Candol
50008 Saint-Lô Cédex
Tél. +33 (0)2 33 05 96 08
sophie.bougeard@manche.fr
www.manchetourisme.com
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© Mobiliboard, City Jet, LDLines, Brittany Ferries, Condor Ferries, CID Deauville, R. Chadwick, E. Lorang, Le Valaine, L.
Williamson, J. Tack, Calvados Tourisme, Mémorial de Caen, OT Bayeux-Bessin, S. Whitham, OT Le Havre Pixell, A. Soelter,
G. Rigoulet, S. Guichard, JFLange, OT Domfront, L. Heurteloup, Vudoiseau, S. Rigoulet, SPOM, V. Rustuel, Cité de la Mer,
Festival Beauregard
Normandy Press Pack 2013
www.normandy-tourism.org