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.

Aquarium de Vannes

In the lovely town of Vannes (actually in Brittany, but it was noT listed above!) you can buy a combined ticket for the aquarium and for the butterfly garden next door. There is a large free car park right outside. The main attraction of the aquarium for me were the green turtles - incredible. Also there is the crocodile which was found in the Paris sewers! The cafe on site does delicious sandwiches and crepes, and there is a good gift shop. Best to go early as they restrict numbers so you can have a 45 minute wait if it is busy.
Le Bistrot Normand

Amazing as you actually eat in former 8000 litre oak barrels which used to contain Calvados - Yes it fits your whole family and the table inside! You are politely served by the staff who all wear the traditional Norman dress. Specialities seems to be fondues made from either Camembert, Pont l’Evêque or Livarot. My advice is to steer clear of the Livarot! If fondue and added assortments are not your thing they have a standard menu which includes a drink and there is also a menu for the kids. Great atmosphere - well worth a visit to sit in the barrels alone!
Memorial Pegasus

Museum and memorial to the allied troops who landed at Raneville-Benouville on 6 June 1944 and liberated the Pegasus Bridge permitting the assault onward to Caen.
Mont Saint Michel

mont saint michel is an old monastery off the coast of normandy. it is unique as the place have the fastests moving tide in europe, which can be seen, and is amazing, daily. the monastery itself s built on a small island and nowadays houses private residences as well as shops and restaurants. if in the area it is well worth a visit, if nothing else for the stunning views you get from the many view points all around the place.
Normandie Memoire Association

To know everything about D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, Discover sites, museums and remembrance places in Normandy, please visit the website www.normandiememoire.com