Top 5 Must Do's in Normandy & Brittany

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1. Mont Saint - Michel  is a must see location/destination during your visit to the Normandy region of France. This unusual little island/commune is located less than a mile off the country's northern coast, at the mouth of the Coueson River. Approximately 50 people inhabit the island of Mont St. Michel, and it is one of the most intriguing and beloved landmarks of France. The island was originally connected to the main land by a thin natural bridge, which would appear and disappear with the changing of the tides. In the late 1800's this natural bridge was fortified and turned into a causeway. In the 6th and 7th centuries the Mont St Michel was used as a stronghold of Roman British culture. The first monastery was built on top of the island in the 8th century, according to legend, the archangel Michael appeared to St. Aubert in 708 and told him to build the church on the rocky islet. The Mont Saint Michel and its bay were declared a historic monument in 1874 and added to the UNESCO list in 1979. 

2. World War II D Day Landing sites and memorial sites are scattered along the Normandy coastline. The Omaha Museum is just behind the Omaha Beach, and exhibits many weapons, uniforms, and vehicles from the D-Day landing. Many barges used to carry the personnel and equipment to the Northern France beaches during WWII, can still be seen eroding on these beaches. The American Cemetery is a 70 acres plot of land dedicated to American soldiers who lost their lives during the Normandy invasion. Steeped deep in history, there are many sites and museums located along the coast such as St Mere Eglise, and St Marle du Mont. 

3. Cancale is probably the most popular beach in this region due to its many shops, cafes, fine restaurants, rock pools, and sandy beaches. The beaches provide lifeguards and can get quite crowded in the summer months (June to August). Cancale is on the Emerald Coast in Brittany, and first became famous for its oysters in the 17th century.

4. Honfleur  is an old port, and was traditionally a favorite subject for many French painters such as Monet, Manet, and even Renoir. Honfleur is a small city, but charming and picturesque. At the old port you will mingle amongst fishing boats, yachts, and local fisherman, and in the city center you will find many Norman style wooden houses, and colorful buildings. Honfleur is a great stop for lunch with its numerous fine eateries. 

5. Take a tour of the President Cheese Farm, if you are a cheese lover, this is the stop for you. Normandy is a famous cheese producing region in France, and you might even begin to think that the dairy cow is its mascot, as you will see plenty of them on your drive through the countryside. If you want to see how Camembert (one of the most popular types of cheese from this region) is made, you can visit the President farm, located in the heart of Camembert. For about 5 euro you get to see how the cheese is made, see vintage cheese making tools, and best of all try a few samples.

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