DK Travel : Normandy : Central Normandy

Encompassing the whole of the Département of Calvados and much of Eure, this region is the true heart of Normandy. From the earthly pleasures of Deauville to the heavenly aspirations of Ste-Thérèse’s Lisieux, from the rural idyll of the Pays d’Auge to the architectural magnificence of the Château de Beaumesnil, from the Bayeux Tapestry to the Impressionist paintings inspired by the enchanting seaport of Honfleur, central Normandy is brimming with variety and interest. William the Conqueror – born in Falaise, buried in Caen – dominates the region’s history, as do the events of D-Day, 6 June 1944, and the subsequent Battle of Normandy, played out on its wide, sandy beaches and in its attractive, historic and now carefully restored towns.

More on William the Conqueror

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Casinos, La Côte Fleurie

There are casinos (for adults only) at Cabourg, Houlgate, Villers -sur-Mer, Deauville and Trouville – the latter two being wonderfully florid turn-of-the-century edifices (see Deauville and La Côte Fleurie).
Château de Balleroy

The château’s sumptuous interior has portraits of Napoleon and Wellington, confronting one another across the Waterloo Room. A hot-air balloon museum is housed in the stables.
Château de Beaumesnil

This glorious Baroque masterpiece, a frothy pile of pink brick and pale stone floating on its glassy moat, is perfectly complemented by the formal gardens that surround it.
Château de Bénouville

The monumental staircase is the star at this impressive yet charming Neo-Classical château.
Château de Bizy, Vernon

The interior of this handsome château set in an English-style park is graced by superb woodwork, tapestries and Empire furniture.
Château de Champ-de-Bataille, Le Neubourg

This soldierly 17th-century château is owned by interior designer Jacques Garcia. On view are the kitchens, and lavish gardens inspired by mythology.
Château de Fontaine-Henry

The sloping roofs of this extraordinary-looking Renaissance château are taller than its walls.
Château de Lantheuil, Creully

In the same family since 1613, the château has retained its original Louis XIII decoration.
Château de Pontécoulant

The last member of the Pontécoulant family gave the estate to the département of Calvados. Fronted by long, formal lawns, backed by woodland, this 16th- to 18th-century château in the Suisse Normande has great charm.
Château d’Anet

Diane de Poitiers’ once-fabulous château is now but a glimmer of its former glory, yet still impresses – especially the gatehouse with its amazing clock.