RRural landscapes and a stunning coastline make Brittany and Normandy the perfect French walk destination.
Lush farming country and the proximity of the ocean influence the delicious cuisine. Think cheese and cream, moule-frites and treats like sweet crêpes and appley Calvados brandy.
Brittany’s glorious Emerald Coast sweeps from chic belle époque resorts to rugged beaches and heather-strewn headlands.
We’ll stay in the heart of the walled fortress town of St Malo, once a stronghold for privateers – pirates with royal approval!
To Normandy. As the sun sets we head towards the dramatic evening silhouette of Mont St-Michel, stretching out into the Atlantic for a very special evening on this magical World Heritage Site island topped by its gravity-defying abbey.
A real must-see is the Bayeux Tapestry. This 230 feet-long masterpiece of embroidery was painstaking stitched the best part of 1000 years ago, telling the tale of long-ago battles with the English.
The wide Normandy beaches are peaceful now, but still-visible evidence of the D-Day landings in 1944 provide a thought-provoking reminder of Europe’s much more recent history.
We spend a full day touring the Normandy beaches, including visits to Ste-Mère-Eglise, the center of US 82nd Airborne operations, the German cemetery at La Cambe, and the Pointe du Hoc. We’ll visit Omaha Beach and the US Cemetery and take our time to reflect.
Rendezvous in Rennes, the capital of Brittany, then drive to our hotel in Dinan, a lovely medieval town. After an aperitif in the hotel, we stroll to one of the best restaurants in town for our Welcome Dinner.
Dinan, Hotel Le d’Avaugour
The day begins with a walk from the port of Dinan along the River Race. This leads to the charming village of Lehon with its feudal castle and former abbey. Then return to Dinan via a magnificent viaduct, offering stunning views of the lower town port and the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Dinan’s beautiful old town resting high above the river and visit the Duchess Ann castle. We dine tonight at a typical ‘crêperie’ much favored by locals.
Dinan, Hotel Le d’Avaugour
After breakfast, travel by boat part-way toward St-Malo, stopping to see a unique tidal power station, then walk to the famous resort of Dinard. After a brief visit, it’s a short ferry ride to St-Malo. We’ll stroll along the ancient ramparts to our beautiful hotel, and have dinner in the restaurant overlooking the sea.
St-Malo, Hotel Le Nouveau Monde
Today’s route follows the Emerald Coast path to the amazing sculptured rocks of Rothéneuf. We’ll stop near here for lunch, then drive into Normandy. With the fabulous profile of Mont St-Michel beckoning us, we follow an old pilgrims’ trail and walk up to the abbey for an unforgettable visit. In the evening, walk across the causeway to Mont St-Michel to dine on the famous ‘omelette de la Mère Poulard’, a unique experience!
Mont St-Michel, Hotel Le Relais Saint-Michel
Begin the day with a visit to the famous Bayeux Tapestry, made in the 11th century celebrating the conquest of England by William, Duke of Normandy. After lunch, we walk through the ‘bocage’, a Norman word to describe the unique, picture postcard landscape of woodland, pasture and meadows interspersed with charming hamlets. We’ll taste the local calvados, hard cider and homemade ice cream before settling into our stunning chateau hotel. This evening, a local expert gives a presentation on the D-Day Landings.
Bayeux, Château de Sully
Spend a full day touring the Normandy beaches, including visits to Sainte-Mère-Eglise, the center of US 82nd Airborne operations, the German cemetery at La Cambe, and the Pointe du Hoc. We’ll visit Omaha Beach and the US Cemetery, with time to reflect. Then return to our hotel for our Farewell Dinner.
Bayeux, Château de Sully
After breakfast, Wayfaring Walks will transfer you to the Caen Rail Station.
Our favorite aspects were the old instrument concert in Léhon, Dinan, the Bayeux tapestry, the D-Day guide and tour including the museum, the beautiful hikes, the carved statues in Saint Malo.
Marie Hélène and Bernard were brilliant! Everything went so smoothly.
Excellent walks with gorgeous scenery. Excellent food & wine. Excellent specialist guide at Omaha Beach & American Cemetery. It was awe inspiring.
Marie Hélène was experienced & personable as she walked with us. She shared the culture & history of the area as we hiked. Our Walk manager Ron went above & beyond in ensuring our trip was perfect in every way. He epitomizes customer service.
It’s always hard to pick a favorite aspect, each day is unique. But in this case, the day at the D-Day beaches and the American Cemetery was special. I also really enjoyed Dinan and the Bayeux tapestry.