Picturesque gardens which inspired Monet, medieval ruins and a rich history make Normandy one of the must-see destinations of Europe. This vibrant region borders the Atlantic Ocean, meaning that holiday cottages in Normandy are perched within idyllic coastal scenery and rolling countryside. Families, groups and couples all visit the region due to the diversity of activities it offers and the dramatic backdrop it provides.
Normandy is situated in the north west and benefits from a mild climate throughout the year. On average the destination sees 1,687 hours of sunshine per year with an average temperature of 17°C in summer and 3.6°C in winter; making holiday cottages in Normandy ideal at any time of the year. The climate and temperature varies throughout Normandy, with the inland area having more continental weather than the coast.
There are many holiday cottages in Normandy which offer privacy and space, as well as a variety of nearby sights. Any visit is incomplete without visiting the D-Day landing beaches. Bayeux is an excellent base for exploring the beaches, monuments, museums, bunkers and cemeteries which commemorate the Battle of Normandy. The town is also home to the magnificent Cathedral of Notre-Dame and the 200-foot long Bayeux Tapestry. The abbey of Mont Saint Michel is the second most visited tourist attraction in France after the Eiffel Tower. The magnificent spectacle is perched on a 264-foot high rocky islet which is reached by a large causeway, where visitors can park their car.
Rouen, "the city of a hundred spires" and historic capital of Normandy, is one of the most interesting places in the region. Both Joan of Arc and William the Conqueror are known to have died in the city, which you will no doubt discover more about during any visit. There is plenty to see and do in Rouen, much to the advantage of nearby holiday cottages.
Normandy’s Gothic Cathedral of Notre-Dame which was famously captured by the French Impressionist Claude Monet is one of the city’s most beloved places. There are also many museums in the city including Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, where you can see work by many well-known artists including Géricault and Monet.
Walking, cycling and horse riding routes are abundant in the beautiful region which is overflowing with sweet smelling apple orchards. Local tourist offices, which can be found in most towns and cities, will have information on the activities that are available near to the location of your holiday cottage.
Normandy is also home to four breathtaking Natural Parks: Seine Regional Natural Park, Maine Regional Natural Park, Cotentin & Bessin Regional Natural Park and the Perche Regional Natural Park. In these magnificent parks you can explore at leisure and enjoy nature at its purest.
There are many famous gardens in the region that are bursting with colourful flora. Not to be missed during any stay in a holiday cottage in Normandy is the garden of Monet in Giverny which featured in many of the famous Impressionist’s works. Other beautiful gardens that are highly recommended include Les Jardins Agapanthe in Grigneuseville, Le Jardin Plume in Auzouvillesur-Ry and Clos du Coudray in Etaimpuis. Cuttings are available from many of these gardens in France, which will be the perfect memento of your time in Normandy.
' . . . herds of brown and white cows grazing gently in apple orchards, beautiful half-timbered houses, quaint villages, chateaux, abbeys and cathedrals, pretty harbours and resorts, there's something for everyone.' - Peter and Anja Davies (La Boursaie, Pays d'Auge)