Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley (Classic, 8 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of France, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. From the romantic streets of Paris to the historic battlefields of Normandy, and the enchanting castles of the Loire Valley, each day promises new adventures and discoveries. Delight in exquisite cuisine, explore iconic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French heritage. This journey offers a perfect blend of guided exploration and leisure, ensuring a truly memorable experience.
Included
3 Dinner (D)
7 Breakfast (B)
Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.
Saumur: Learn about local grape varieties and regional wine-making traditions as you sample wines of the Loire Valley.
Loire Valley: Your Farm-to-Table dinner begins with a glass of sparkling wine, followed by a delicious meal prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Normandy: L'Hôtel du Golf is located just 10 minutes from Deauville Beach, known as a weekend getaway for Parisians. With it's Tudor-style facade and tasteful, modern interiors, relax in comfort during your stay. Perhaps play a round of golf on one of the three 9-hoole courses, known as some of the most beautiful in France.
Saint-Malo: Hotel Le Nouveau Monde is a 4-star hotel, perfectly located in the heart of Saint-Malo, facing the sea and close to the old town.
Saint Patrice, Loire Valley: Stay two fabulous nights at the Château de Rochecotte in the Loire Valley, the former private estate of Prince Tallyrand and the Duchess of Dino. Sit with a drink on the terrace and enjoy the beautiful setting or take a stroll through the magnificent gardens.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Loire Valley: Discover the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry. In the scenic Loire Valley, explore France’s finest formal gardens. Now a hub for sustainability preserving the estate's biological diversity, learn all about the a sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages, and purple basil, all grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. Their aim is to preserve a remarkable garden, maintained with meticulous care, while incorporating maintenance work into a balanced ecosystem. They have partnered with a local university to bring biodiversity back into the gardens. Villandry Gardens advance UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land.
Rouen: See the cathedral, the Great Clock, the Old Market square and Place du Vieux-Marché where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
Honfleur: See this charming fishing town.
Omaha Beach: Follow the route of the Rangers, visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial.
Omaha Beach: With a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent.
Mont-Saint-Michel: Savour your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel. Cross the causeway for a guided tour with your Local Expert through the maze of halls and vaults of the abbey.
Saint-Malo: Your Local Expert guides you through the streets of the walled city to arrive at the cathedral. Later enjoy the chance to walk along the fortifications and explore the cities nightlife at your leisure.
Angers: See the imposing château.
Azay-le-Rideau: During your visit to Château de Cheverny, your Local Expert will show you the château's decor and aristocratic costumes of the family through the centuries. Inhabited by the same family for more than 6 centuries, the castle, its gardens and its connection to Tintin will provide an unforgettable experience.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to the City of Lights
- Paris - Arrival day
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- Grand Palais
- Albert-Kahn Museum and Garden
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Upon arrival in Paris, the enchanting capital of France, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere. After checking in at your hotel (Le Bristol Paris or similar), the iconic boulevards and landmarks await your exploration. In the evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll savor dishes inspired by traditional French recipes.
Day 2 – Journey to Normandy's Charms
- Paris
- Rouen
- Honfleur
- Deauville
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- Hanging Gardens
- Le Jardin Agapanthe
- Museum of Fire Brigade of France
- Évreux Cathedral
- Le Gros-Horloge
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Depart Paris and follow the scenic River Seine to Rouen, the capital of Normandy. Marvel at the Gothic splendor of Rouen Cathedral and stroll through the historic streets to the Old Market Square, where Joan of Arc met her fate. Continue to the picturesque town of Honfleur, known for its charming harbor and vibrant streets. Experience the local culture by visiting a family-run farm to sample Normandy's renowned cider and cheese. Conclude the day in the chic seaside resort of Deauville, where you'll stay at a luxurious hotel (Sofitel Deauville or similar).
Day 3 – Reflect on History in Normandy
- Deauville
- Bayeux
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- Vieux-la-Romaine Museum
- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Bayeux Cathedral
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Embark on a poignant journey along the Normandy coast, visiting the historic Pointe du Hoc and the American Military Cemetery near Omaha Beach. With a Local Expert, delve into the region's wartime history at the D-Day Museum in Arromanches or explore the Bayeux Tapestry Museum, which narrates the tale of William the Conqueror. Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring creative cuisine and fine wines, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Normandy.
Day 4 – Explore the Enchanting Coastline
- Deauville
- Le Mont-Saint-Michel
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- Saint-Malo Intra-Muros
- Mont Saint-Michel
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Travel through the picturesque bocage countryside to the iconic Mont Saint-Michel, a stunning island abbey accessible by a bridge. Discover the quaint town nestled within its ancient walls. Continue along the Emerald Coast to the captivating city of Saint-Malo. With a Local Expert, wander through the walled city, home to legendary explorers like Jacques Cartier. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and savor fresh seafood in this charming coastal haven.
Day 5 – Discover the Loire Valley's Treasures
- Saumur
- Villandry
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- Arboretum Gaston Allard
- Château de Villandry
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Venture south through the Loire Valley, passing the majestic Angers Castle. In Saumur, a local vintner will guide you through a tasting of the region's exquisite wines. Visit the Château de Villandry, renowned for its breathtaking sustainable gardens. Experience a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you explore the organic gardens designed to regenerate the local ecosystem. Spend the night in a charming castle hotel, surrounded by lush gardens.
Day 6 – A Day of Elegance and Relaxation
- Villandry
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- Château du Rivau
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Journey to the enchanting Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, where a Local Expert will guide you through its exquisite decor. Return to your castle hotel for a leisurely afternoon. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner featuring local sparkling wine and farm-to-table dishes, creating a memorable culinary experience in an idyllic setting.
Day 7 – Return to the Heart of France
- Chartres
- Paris
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- place de la Concorde
- Champ de Mars
- Arc de Triomphe
- Notre-Dame de Chartres
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Travel through the Beauce region to the magnificent Chartres Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. Enjoy a guided tour before returning to Paris. Your Travel Director will introduce you to the city's iconic sights, including the Place de la Concorde, Champs Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. As night falls, witness the City of Light in all its illuminated glory. Consider an optional cabaret show for an unforgettable evening.
Day 8 – Farewell to France
- Paris - Departure day
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As your journey through the enchanting landscapes and rich history of France comes to an end, transfer to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories created during this extraordinary multi-day tour.
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