DK Travel : Normandy

Normandy brings a dozen different images to mind: William the Conqueror, the D-Day landings, Mont-St-Michel; the bleak landscape of the Cotentin coast, the sparkling summertime playground of the Côte Fleurie; sumptuous châteaux, historic abbeys, famous gardens; the orchards of the Auge, the picture-postcard scenery of the Suisse Normande; Monet’s home at Giverny, the Cabourg immortalized by Proust – or perhaps it’s cider, calvados and camembert. Whatever your list, it will barely scratch the surface of this rich and rewarding region.

Les Gravelets, Montmartin-sur-Mer

This two-star seaside campsite was converted from a lime quarry in 1983. One of the pits is now used for rock climbing; the other has been turned into tennis courts. If you like fresh seafood, catch your own and cook it over a campfire.
Les Médiévales de Domfront

Troupes of actors and musicians recreate a medieval festival, with games and a market.
Les Musicales de Mortagne

Six chamber concerts by world-class performers are staged in stunning settings in the Perche.
Les Musilumières de Sées

The latest technology is used in the sound-and-light show at this romantic 13th-century Gothic cathedral.
Les Nymphéas, Rouen

Central yet secluded, with its own garden terrace, this local favourite is famous for its imaginative cuisine.
Les Nymphéas, Rouen

This is a wonderful spot in summer, but locals are drawn principally by the imaginative cuisine – in particular, the wide selection of fish.
Les Virevoltés, Vire

Don’t miss this wacky annual street festival, with acrobats, dancers and much more.
Les Voix du Monde, Mont-St-Michel

A series of concerts featuring some of the world’s most beautiful voices, combined with walks along the chemins de paradis – ancient pilgrim routes to the Mont.
Lessay

The compact and comforting lines of Lessay’s abbey church, St-Trinité, make it one of the most beautiful Romanesque buildings in Normandy. Dating from 1098, it was almost destroyed in 1944, but has been magnificently reconstructed using original materials. The interior is plain and lovely, with fine stained glass adding warmth. Sleepy Lessay’s big moment comes in the second week of September, when thousands converge for the convivial three-day Foire de Ste-Croix (see Foire de Sainte-Croix, Lessay).
Lion Verd, Putanges-Pont-Ecrepin

This local favourite has a pretty riverside terrace by the bridge over the Orne. Vegetarian dishes always on the menu.

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