A Tasty and Historic French Escape

One of the best-known towns in Normandy is charming Honfleur, France. It’s where the Seine River meets the English Channel and where medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets transport visitors back in time.

It’s a beautiful village to stay for a night or two and appreciate the art, history and natural beauty of the northwestern part of France.

While exploring, here are some great historical sites to visit while enjoying fresh seafood and sipping apple cider.

D-Day Landing Beaches

Those interested in World War II history will want to see the beaches in Normandy. On June 6, 1944, Normandy was the site of the D-Day landings. This is where Allied forces launched a massive assault on Nazi occupation to liberate France.

Plan to visit Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Juno Beach and Pointe du Hoc to take in the sites, museums and cemeteries. The American Cemetery at Omaha Beach is dedicated to the soldiers who fought and died during the invasion.

Normandy American D-Day Beaches Full Day Tour from Bayeux

Vieux Bassin (Old Harbour)

The picturesque harbor in the heart of Honfleur is filled with boats and colorful building facades. It’s one of the most photographed places in this region of France.

Some of the traditional houses and facades date back to the 17th century. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and a coffee at one of the many cafes.

La Lieutenance (The Lieutenancy)

The historic Lieutenancy building in Honfleur is located at the entrance to Le Vieux Bassin. Dating back to the 15th century, it was built for the King’s Lieutenant, hence its name.

Today, it hosts a CIAP (Architecture and Heritage Interpretation Center) that is open to the public and showcases the city’s maritime history. A large plaque honors Samuel de Champlain, who sailed from here to explore the New World in 1603.

The Lieutenancy is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Read More: Normandy’s D-Day Beaches: A Complete Guide for History Buffs

Hôtel L’Écrin

Ideally located within walking distance of the historic Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor) is a beautifully restored 18th-century hotel. The name “L’Écrin” means “The Jewel Box” in French, which reflects the hotel’s charm, filled with color and art.

The hotel is located in a residential area on a cobblestone street, near art galleries, town
landmarks and the harbor. Guests can enjoy a hot breakfast in the morning for a nominal fee served in the formal dining room area.

Book Your Stay at Hôtel L’Écrin

Architecture

Half-timbered houses, quaint shops and old churches create a picturesque setting in Normandy. One unique architectural landmark is Saint Catherine’s Church.

This unique wooden church is an excellent example of maritime architecture. Saint-Catherine’s is the largest of its kind in France and one of the most iconic buildings in Honfleur.

Built in the 15th century by local shipbuilders, the church was built with two naves: one
for the congregation and the other for the sailors.

Art at Eugène Boudin Museum

Honfleur’s artistic history dates back to the Impressionist movement. The dramatic skies, the Seine River and the sea have long been an inspiration for artists.

The stunning views have attracted painters such as 19th-century pioneer Impressionist Eugene Boudin. He is credited for capturing Honfleur’s landscape en plein air (outdoors).

This museum showcases many of his paintings, as well as those of other Impressionist artists such as Claude Monet, another famous artist who spent a great deal of time in this region. Both were experts in capturing the harbor and the way the light interacts with the water, the buildings and the landscape.

Today, the town remains a popular destination for contemporary artists. Many art galleries and studios are showcasing both modern and traditional works.

The blend of historical inspiration and modern artistic expressions continues to draw creative artists and those who appreciate art from around the world.

Plan Your Trip With Our France Travel Guide

Le Jardin des Personnalités (The Garden of Personalities)

A public garden on the cliffs of Honfleur, created in the early 1990s, provides a fascinating collection of busts and sculptures commemorating famous individuals and their connection to French culture. The garden overlooks the town, the Seine estuary and the harbor.

This garden includes tributes to famous artists such as Eugène Boudin and Claude Monet, as well as creative types such as legendary fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. It’s open to the public and free to visit.

L’Absinthe

One of the highly regarded restaurants in Vieux Bassin, L’Absinthe is known for its refined French cuisine and intimate ambiance. The restaurant, housed in a rustic cottage, exudes warmth with an elegant atmosphere.

There are different cozy dining areas offering an intimate setting under wooden beams. The menu features fresh seafood (a highlight in the coastal region of Normandy), as well as locally produced meats and vegetables.

Some of the popular dishes include a seafood platter with fresh oysters, mussels and fish. They also offer Normandy specialties such as local cheese, duck, foie gras, crème brûlée, tarts and Normandy’s famous apple desserts. There is an excellent selection of regional French wines to pair with your meal.

L’Éphémère Restaurant

L’Éphémère is located in the historic Château d’Englesqueville-la-Percée castle near Omaha Beach in the town of Villers-sur-Mer. This pop-up restaurant is a fascinating stop after seeing WWII sites.

This castle was saved due to efforts related to American forces’ involvement in World War II, and the owners are very appreciative.

One of the family members of this Chateau warmly welcomed us when he learned we were American. He shared with us that the region saw heavy fighting, and several buildings, including historical landmarks, were at risk of being damaged or destroyed.

“American soldiers and other Allied forces were instrumental in helping to protect and
preserve our chateau,” he said.

We also learned that many American soldiers stationed in this part of France developed a respectful appreciation for the region’s architecture and historical landmarks. Their involvement left a lasting legacy among residents and is a testament to the region’s resilience during the war.

Like many castles, Château d’Englesqueville-la-Percée has been renovated and is currently being restored to its historical charm and architectural beauty. Visitors will appreciate its traditional French architectural styles, with elements characteristic of the Normandy region.

Of note are its classic layout with impressive stonework, a grand façade and beautiful surrounding gardens.

Because of its elegant and picturesque setting, a section of the chateau is open as L’Éphémère pop-up restaurant. Diners feel as if they are dining in someone’s home as they enjoy art on the wall while tasting a fusion of French and European cuisine.

The menu provides an array of local, home-cooked dishes, including burgers, steak, fish,
charcuterie and cheese. It’s open for lunch from 12:30 to 2:30 pm, and 6:30 to 9 pm.

Breathtaking Honfleur and Deauville Shore Excursion

Apple Cider Tasting

Next to the chateau is Cider Bouche & Calvados Tasting. Visitors can taste a variety of alcoholic apple beverages made in the Normandy region.

Cider and Brandy are central to the region’s rich culinary and drinking traditions. Cidre Bouche (Cider by the Glass) is a traditional Norman apple cider served directly from a barrel
or bottle to be enjoyed in a tulip-shaped glass.

The name “cidre bouché” refers to the corked bottles used for this style of cider. It’s different from commercial ciders, as it is made in smaller batches and often has a more refined, artisanal quality.

Cider makers press apples into juice that ferments into a slightly fizzy beverage, giving it a more complex flavor profile. This cider is typically drier and less sweet than the
mass-produced versions.

Cider is an integral part of the Honfleur and Normandy dining experience, often enjoyed
with cheese, moules (mussels) and seafood, Camembert cheese and crepes.

Read More: Slow Travel on the Seine: Exploring Normandy in Style on the Scenic Gem

Apple Brandy Tasting

Calvados is an apple brandy also produced in Normandy. It is made by distilling cider, resulting in a strong, complex spirit with a rich flavor profile of apples, spices, and oak.

The cider is distilled into an eau-de-vie (water of life), which is then aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years or longer. The young Calvados is refreshing, fruity and vibrant, while the longer aging process gives Calvados a deeper, more sophisticated apple flavor.

One sips the brandy to discover smooth nuances of dried fruit, a touch of cinnamon
or nutmeg, oak and vanilla. It’s an ideal digestif after a meal with meat or to sip with a slice of tarte tatin or apple crumble.

Normandy is one of the most fascinating areas to visit in France. Visitors appreciate the historic architecture, vibrant art scene, beautiful landscape, and robust foodie experience.

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Author Bio: Jill Weinlein is an avid traveler and enjoys discovering hidden gems around the world. Her reviews inspire others to seek new adventures and discoveries.

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