A Taste of Normandy & the Côte Fleurie for Solo Travellers

For a short break with a difference, Normandy is hard to beat - it truly is one of the unspoilt corners of Europe. The region is lush and green, its countryside a patchwork of emerald-green fields, apple orchards, ivy-clad farmhouses, timber-framed buildings and pretty churches with distinctive Norman spires. Our tour is based in charming Lisieux, a town with a rich heritage from the Middle Ages through to modern times, when it was home to Saint Therèse of Lisieux, one of the most popular Catholic saints of the 20th century. 

We visit fascinating Rouen, one of the most splendidly preserved medieval cities in Europe. It was here that Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, just one of many momentous events that took place in this crucible of history, whose legacies can still be felt today. William of Normandy, of course, set sail from here in 1066 to conquer England - you'll see the full panorama of his campaign in the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry. Almost 900 years later, it was the beaches of Normandy themselves that were the site of the biggest-ever invasion - D-Day - and the rusting remains of the Allies' landing equipment movingly reminds us of the sacrifices made.

Spared the ravages of war, the charming port of Honfleur is a delight to explore, with its merchants' houses along the waterfront - so beloved of artists, including Claude Monet. It's also the perfect place to enjoy the bounty caught by the colourful trawlers in the waters off Normandy's rugged coastline. If the freshest seafood weren't enough, you're also spoilt with some of the finest food and drink in the whole of France, from creamy cheeses to celebrated cider. So rich in history, captivatingly beautiful and replete with culinary delights, Normandy really does offer something for everyone.