Our vacation in France began in Normandy — we headed there directly from the airport, stopping in Rouen for lunch before arriving in the town of Audrieu near Caen in the late afternoon. I had visited Normandy years ago and was eager to experience the region again with my BF. We wanted to see the sights, but we also wanted to relax, enjoy each other, eat good food, and truly take in the beauty of France.
Where We Stayed
- Chateau d’Audrieu | We spent three nights at Chateau d’Audrieu, The château was build in 1715 and is listed as a Historical Monument. The exterior remains unchanged, but architect Philippe de Lanouvelle entirely renovated the interior to include every modern comfort imaginable while also honoring the spirit of the time it was built. The chateau is stunning — with quintessential French details throughout and outstanding service. We loved it!
Where We Ate
- Le Seran | The chateau offers one of the finest dining experiences in the region. The restaurant was warm, welcoming, and elegant. The service was exceptional and the food could not have been more delicious.
- La Mère Poulard | Founded in 1888, Annette Poulard devoted her life to preparing meals for pilgrims, visitors, and the most famous figures of her time. Annette’s specialty is her world-famous puff omelet cooked over a woodfire, the recipe of which has been kept secret for 130 years. La Mere Poulard is the perfect lunch spot for anyone spending the day at Le Mont Saint Michel.
Where We Explored
- Mont Saint Michel
- The Bayeaux Tapestry Museum
- Sainte Mère Eglise
- Normandy American Cemetery
- D-Day Beaches
- Honfleur
We were just there over Christmas and loved it. We visited Mt. St. Michele, Granville, and the D-Day Beaches. All were fabulous from Christian Dior’s garden to the abbey at the top of Mt. St. Michele and the guided tour of the D-Day Beaches. I highly recommend going here.
Wonderful. I am so happy to hear you loved it. Normandy is such an easy excursion from Paris and there’s so much to see, as you aptly pointed out.