In the Normandy region you will find cider made with apples that grow on farms, as well as Calvados, the potent apple brandy that is made from these pressed juices. Cider has been made in the area since the 11th century and is a popular drink among locals.
Several Norman towns boast half-timbered buildings, which are a very distinctive architectural style that developed from the late 15th century. They are often asymmetrical and have narrow, low windows that were once used for ventilation.
These half-timbered houses are still very much a part of the landscape today. They have their own identity and are a great way to experience this part of the country.
Normandy also boasts a rich history and has a lot to offer the visitor. The city of Bayeux is especially famous for its lace-making tradition which dates back 300 years.
Its cathedral is also an important pilgrimage site, and its domestic architecture compares favourably with other Norman towns.
There are a variety of festivals to enjoy during your trip to Normandy, including a major festival commemorating the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The American Film Festival is another major event in September, and there are also plenty of other festivals during the harvest season and around the apple harvest.
The most significant monument in the region is the massive breakwater at Cherbourg, which was built to protect the city from attack by ships. It is a huge, impressive structure that can be seen from a considerable distance away.