From the historic D-Day beaches to mini Paris & Belgium chocolate...a travel blog for everyone!
“The French air cleans up the brain and does good – a world of good.” – Vincent Van Gogh
La plage de Quinéville
If like me you grew up with a love of all things travel, history & French, then this is the blog for you!
Come with me on a two week journey starting at Cherbourg - travel along the Cotentin coastline (with some inland detours) of Normandy, from Quineville to Bayeux - Dieppe - Amiens - Lille - Belgium & back again! The comfort of bringing a car while travelling is a whole other world of ease I never expected. No baggage limits, pulling and dragging suitcases, and endless trip souvenirs! This was our second time travelling to France by car in a matter of months so we had the prep down to a T! We also have this quaint ability to hit all of the best places in off-peak season and that just makes my day!
We started out on and Irish Ferries sailing onboard the WB Yeats, and of course, as usual, no issues. We relaxed in the Maud Gonne Bar & Lounge and just let the waves do the work to the sound of the bar entertainment!
No crowds..no fuss...just enroute to France!
#Autumn2023
First stop right off the ferry was - Quinéville. This was a last minute decision as we found the most majestic accommodation by chance online and just could do not pass it by. Quineville is located in the Normandy region of France & holds significant historical importance as part of the D-day invasions. As a travel photographer, capturing the essence of Quineville means documenting the remnants of World War II, the pristine coastline, and the resilient spirit of the local community. The picturesque landscape, with its charming countryside and breath-taking seascapes, provides a perfect backdrop for travel photography. Château de Quinéville was simply one of the most beautiful places I have stayed in a long time. The quiet, serene environment was perfect for running away from the hustle and bustle of daily life & it was the perfect starting point for our onward trip.
Where to Stay?
Where to eat?
Plage De La Brèche
2 Boulevard Maritime, 50310 Quineville
D-Day Museum?
World War 2 Muséum, le musée de la seconde guerre mondiale à Quinéville (worldwar2-museum.com)
Open from 1er April to November 6
from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
from 1er April to April 30
from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
from 1er May to August 31
from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
from 1er September to November 6
Duration of the tour approx. 1 hour
History Stop!
Quinéville in 1944 - Manche - Battle of Normandy (dday-overlord.com)
Quinéville in a snapshot of photographs!
On to our next overnight stop; Dieppe, via a little detour to Domaine Dupont!
Domaine Dupont - Calvados and Ciders (calvados-dupont.com)
“The Famille Dupont Family estate consists of 30 hectares (74 acres) of orchards in Normandy, in the heart of the Pays d'Auge region. The estate produces ciders, pommeau and calvados.” - Website, 2024.
One thing I always wanted to do was visit and orchard in this region and when we were literally passing this fabulous estate we couldn’t pass it by without a little lunchtime stop off! We did not make any reservation & turns out didn’t need to. The grounds were inviting, the team members extremely helpful and the shop was extremely reasonable. We indulged a little after a gorgeous tasting session. Highly recommend!
Where?
Domaine Dupont
La Vigannerie
14430 Victot-Pontfol
France
Domaine Dupont in a snapshot!
We got back on track and made our way to our overnight stop in Dieppe via Bayeux/Rouen. There were so many options of where to stop but as this was only a quick one night and up early situation, so we didn’t overthink it. In saying that, we struck gold again with a charming marine town with plenty of nightlife. Boasting a rich maritime heritage, Dieppe is home to a bustling port, where colourful fishing boats bob in the harbour against the backdrop of quaint waterfront cafes and restaurants. With its pebbled beaches, dramatic cliffs, and clear blue waters, Dieppe offers unforgettable vistas and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
Where to stay?
Hôtel de la Plage Dieppe - 3 star beachfront hotel in Dieppe (laplage-dieppe.com)
Additional Stop
Bayeux, Normandy
Nestled in the picturesque region of Normandy, the quaint town of Bayeux is not only renowned for its charming cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses but also for housing the famous Bayeux Tapestry. This remarkable piece of medieval art, measuring an impressive 230 feet long, depicts the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England, including the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Bayeux Cemetery, stands as a solemn tribute to the sacrifices made during one of the most pivotal moments in history. Located in the heart of the picturesque French countryside, this cemetery serves as the final resting place for thousands of Allied soldiers who gave their lives during the D-Day landings and the subsequent Battle of Normandy during World War II.
Dieppe in a snapshot!
From Dieppe to Lille…
250km later we land in Lille … or miniature Paris! (So straight away I am delighted…with Paris being my hearts no.1!)
Lille, located in northern France, is a city steeped in history, rich in culture, and brimming with photogenic opportunities. As a leading cultural hub in the country, Lille attracts visitors from all over the world with its captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. It was our first time visiting & it really did not disappoint. We used Lille as a basis for the next few days and could not get enough of this hidden treasure. I love the crazy vibes of busy Paris, but this city really is a mini version with just as many great points! To top of it, - the rugby world cup was taking place…so you can imagine the atmosphere at certain times of the day!
Lille’s historic old town, Vieux Lille, is a picturesque area filled with stunning Flemish architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes. The Grand Place, with its elegant buildings and inviting terraces, is a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. Lille's renowned museums, such as the Palais des Beaux-Arts and La Piscine Museum. Lille is a treasure trove of visual inspiration. The city's architecture, ranging from grandiose palaces to quaint alleyways, provides endless opportunities for capturing striking images.
Where to stay?
Hôtel*** Brueghel (hotel-brueghel-lille.com)
I could not recommend this hotel enough for the aesthetic, the location & the kindness. As it is a city, it was the first time we couldn’t park the car outside (typical Irish) but a very secure underground was 2 minutes walk from the hotel and the hotel had a discounted rate for us!
Lille centre at night
Lille in a snapshot!
While in Lille we travelled to Tournai, Belgium for some day trips!
Who can’t resist some Belgium chocolate am I right?
Tournai is a charming city in Belgium that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architectural wonders. Tournai homes a Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive five bell towers and striking mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Just strolling through the cobbled streets is relaxing, charming and of course; picturesque.
Did you know?
Belgium's love affair with chocolate dates back to the 17th century when the country was introduced to cocoa beans. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that Belgium truly embraced chocolate-making as an art form.
One fun fact about Belgium's chocolate history is that the praline, a chocolate shell with a soft, flavoured filling, was invented in Brussels in 1912 by Jean Neuhaus.
Leaving Lille we decided to cover a lot of ground in one day and make our way back towards the D-Day beaches before returning to Cherbourg. We travelled through Amiens & Caens in order to get to our stopping point, - Saint Marie du Mont. (Only around 500kms)
Where to Stay?
Domaine Utah Beach
14 La Rivière, 50480 Sainte Marie du Mont
Next Stop…Utah Beach, France
Utah Beach in Normandy, holds a significant place in history as one of the D-Day landing sites during World War II. As you step onto the soft sands, the serene beauty of the beach contrasts with the harrowing events that unfolded here nearly eight decades ago. As it was my first time on the beach it was a strange experience. After visiting the onsite museum (where you could spend all day) there was a heavy atmosphere coupled with the stormy clouds we met that day.
The remains of the original harbour and German bunkers stand as silent witnesses to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought here.
Utah Beach provides a sombre yet essential opportunity for reflection, honouring the memory of those who participated in one of the most pivotal moments of World War II. Whether you are a history enthusiast (like us) or simply wish to pay your respects, a visit to Utah Beach is a humbling and unforgettable experience.
With the 80th anniversary approaching this year, take note that the D-Day commemoration will take place from 1-16th if June all across Normandy and the majority of the area for accommodation is already completely sold out on Booking.com (our trustee go to for all of our trips!) The focus will be on Omaha beach but all areas of the coastline will be involved in the memorial commemoration.
Read more..
Utah Beach in a snaphot!
I could go on and on about this trip as it was totally jampacked. If you are interested in learning more or would like specifics about any of the destinations, head over to Instagram and drop a DM, I would be happy to help you plan your next adventure! Sarah Kilduff Photography (@sarah_kilduff_photography_) • Instagram photos and videos
*Disclaimer - please check online for specific locations, seasonal opening hours and road closures in the mentioned areas.
Until next time…S x