We stayed in the tiny town of Bazenville outside a larger city of Bayeux. Our first night there we found another town close by called Creully and went back the next day for our first official French meal of crepes and french pizza.
We happened to be in this region on the week of the anniversary of the invasion of France by the allies during WWII. June 6th to be exact. We were so lucky to hit it on that week and I would again advise you to go at this time of the year if you are planning a trip. They had a lot of things going on all week leading up to the anniversary and the crowds were not bad. We stayed away from things on the actual anniversary for the crowd reason but I really felt we saw so many things during the week we didn't miss anything.
One of the first places we went was the American cemetery at Omaha beach. It was humbling to see. It is beautifully maintained and the way they are able to make sure every cross is in a p.e.r.f.e.c.t line is amazing to me. It really made you grateful to all the men who have died fighting for our freedoms and right to live the way we choose.
Next we ventured south to a very famous city and tourist location, Le Mont Saint-Michel.
I loved this city. You can park your car and walk out to it or take a bus. We decided to let the kids burn off a little steam and walk. It was a gorgeous day and well worth it. I loved the city inside and they let you access a ton of it. A must see on a trip to France.
We were back at some beaches of Normandy the next day. We went to Pointe du Hoc where many American rangers literally scaled high cliffs to reach the German forces on the coast line. I can think of nothing more terrifying!!
We then ventured west to Hemeves and saw live paratroopers reenact the jumping that took place on D-Day. It was really amazing. The boys loved it - especially kidlet #3.
We then drove to Saint Mere Eglise where several paratroopers accidentally dropped, one famously got caught on a church steeple and hung there all night in silence so not to be discovered by the Germans (I'm not quite sure what happened when daylight came). They put a replica to show you what it was like for him.
One of the evenings we were able to leave the kids with the grandparents and head into Bayeux on a date. It was fun to getaway for a few hours and enjoy some good French food.
Fried Snails
Patee'
Fish
Pigeon
Cheese Plate - THE best brie ever!!!
Apple pastry with caramel sauce and apple sorbet - delicious!
Really cool looking dessert!
My cute date!!!
Our last day we went south again to the little tiny town of Camembert - where the cheese comes from. They had a neat museum tour that took you through the history of the cheese coming about and it's importance to the French people. We definitely bought some to enjoy on the rest of our trip, but it was stinky! They call it "stinky cheese" for a reason. The kids loved the ice cream the most and the adults enjoyed Magnum bars. Ever have one? If not, find one at your local international food store. Why they don't sell them in the US in larger selections and quantities I will never know!! A true ice cream tragedy for the American people!
On our way back and for our last night we walked around Bayeux and ate our last meal at the cutest restaurant with wonderful food.
The only draw back to this region for me was my allergies. They were terrible!! I have never had them this badly. They lasted the remainder of the trip but were never quite as bad as when we were in Normandy. Next time I will be sure to take some medication! The pictures don't do it justice.
We bid farewell to this beautiful place and headed to Paris! I will continue that adventure tomorrow!
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