10 Days in France: Normandy and the Loire Valley

This 10-day tour of the French countryside appeals to all the senses, touching on the traditions, tastes, and terrain of Normandy and the Loire Valley.

Country
France
Duration
10 days / 9 nights
From
$4,550 /person
Customize this trip

Your trip at a glance

Top Activities

Basking in the cultural charm of Mantes-la-Jolie and Pont-Audemer in the French countryside

Gallivanting through the Loire Valley’s historic châteaus, prolific vineyards, and idyllic gardens

Walking through history on a thorough, guided sightseeing tour of D Day’s Normandy beaches

Sipping Normandy's signature Calvados during a delicious distillery tasting

Visiting the enchanting island architecture of the UNESCO-recognized Mont Saint-Michel

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Preview:

Normandy’s Chic Beaches and Historic Treasures

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Overview

This morning, check out of your hotel in Honfleur and make your way to Bayeux. The drive takes a little more than an hour, though you’ll make stops on the way. As you drive along the coast, you’ll first pause in Deauville, one of the most famous towns in Normandy. Known for its elegant seaside charm, Deauville boasts beautiful sandy beaches, while its iconic wooden boardwalk, Les Planches, displays beach cabins named after Hollywood stars. Stroll through the town center to admire its half-timbered buildings, luxury boutiques, and the grand Casino Barrière. Afterward, you’ll have a guided tour of the stunning Villa Strassburger, a historic mansion showcasing the town's wealthy past. The Deauville Marina is a great spot to watch the yachts and soak in the sophisticated atmosphere. Upon arriving in Bayeux, meet your local guide and start your tour of historic Bayeux at the city’s Tapestry Museum, where the remarkable 11th-century embroidery narrates the Norman conquest of England. Continue to the majestic Bayeux Cathedral: a stunning Gothic structure that dominates the town’s skyline. Walk through the medieval old town, filled with charming streets, patisseries, and cafés where you can try the delicious Tarte Normande. If time allows, visit the Museum of the Battle of Normandy to gain insights into D-Day and the liberation of France. (Breakfast)

Highlights

Villa Strassburger

A popular holiday destination, this seaside oasis exudes French glamour. No building better exemplifies the town’s historic reputation than the incredible Villa Strassburger: a 1907 Anglo-Norman villa of Belle Epoque opulence. Walk through the lavish rooms and breathe in the magnificence of the outdoor gardens.

Bayeux

On the Aure River, the medieval town of Bayeux looks like it tells a story — because it does. In 1944, this historic town was France’s first liberated city in World War II, though its claim-to-fame Tapestry Museum details an even deeper history. This UNESCO-recognized museum displays a tapestry that details the story of the rise of power of William, Duke of Normandy, in the 11th century.

Accommodations

La Ferme de Rançonnière (or similar)

Spend the night in the historic, restored farmhouse of La Ferme de Ranconniere. Here, guests can enjoy the best aspects of country life — farm views, an idyllic setting, and plenty of space — without sacrificing the comforts of a clean and detail-oriented hotel. Recharge in the farmhouse’s magnificence as you explore the best of Normandy.

Location:

9 Route de Creully, 14480 Crépon

Phone:

+33231222173

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Transportation

Check out of your hotel in Honfleur and make your way to Bayeux. The drive takes a little more than an hour, though you’ll make stops on the way.

by car
Depart:
Honfleur
Arrive:
Crépon, La Ferme de Ranconniere (or similar)

How it works

01

Fill out request form

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02

Meet your expert

Schedule a call with your expert to confirm dates, pricing and any recommended edits to the itinerary.

03

Book your trip

Once your itinerary is set, it’s time to pay the deposit to secure your trip.

04

Take-off

Let the journey begin! Your expert will offer real-time support and concierge service while traveling.

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What's included

Included in the final price

  • Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
  • 24/7 on-the-ground support
  • On-trip concierge service
  • Personalized trip crafting
  • Entry and exit information and assistance
  • Accommodations for nine nights, with daily breakfast included
  • Rental car with automatic transmission, unlimited mileage, and insurance included (vehicle type to be determined with us)
  • All experiences, guided tours, and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • All meals mentioned in the itinerary

Not included in the final price

  • International arrival and departure flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and gratuities
  • Anything not mentioned or listed as optional in the itinerary

Ready to see the full itinerary?

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Let's Go

Day 1:
Bonjour France!
Day 2:
The Charm of Honfleur and Calvados Tastings
Day 3:
Normandy’s Chic Beaches and Historic Treasures
Day 4:
D Day Beaches and Normandy’s Wartime History
Day 5:
Mont Saint Michel J’arrive!
Day 6:
La Vie de Château
Day 7:
A Château Journey Through the Loire Valley
Day 8:
Time Travel and Wine Tastings
Day 9:
Artistry in Gardens, Museums, and the French Countryside
Day 10:
It's Only Au Revoir!