Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley - Classic Group

Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley - Classic Group

31 Views
8 Days From

$3465

$3119

Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley - Classic Group

8 Days Starting and ending in Paris

Visiting: Paris, Rouen, Deauville, Omaha Beach, Arromanches-les-Bains, Gold Beach, Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Angers, Saumur, Montlouis-sur-Loire, Loire-Ouchamps, Cheverny

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

E926ZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $3465 $3119 Operator discount: -$347

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Enjoy the sights and sounds of France during this 8-day guided tour. Travel to Normandy and stand on the 100-foot-tall Pointe du Hoc, overlooking the beaches where soldiers fought in World War II — and walk with a Local Expert through the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach, where Allied Forces landed on D-Day. Drive through the Loire Valley to the glorious fragrant gardens of Château de Villandry, stopping to smell the basil, rosemary and other herbs grown in its gardens. You’ll remember those scents at a celebration dinner featuring a farm-to-table feast and sparkling wine. See Paris’ top attractions, from the elegant avenue of the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe and the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Highlights

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    Choice Highlights

    • Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in the heart of the Old Town.
    • Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay.

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    Top Rated Highlights

    • Rouen: See the cathedral, the Great Clock, the Old Market square and Place du Vieux-Marché where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
    • Honfleur: See this charming fishing town.
    • Omaha Beach: Follow the route of the Rangers, visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial.
    • Omaha Beach: With a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent.
    • Mont-Saint-Michel: Savor your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel. Cross the causeway for a guided tour with your Local Expert through the maze of halls and vaults of the abbey.
    • Saint-Malo: Your Local Expert guides you through the streets of the walled city to arrive at the cathedral. Later enjoy the chance to walk along the fortifications and explore the cities nightlife at your leisure.
    • Angers: See the imposing château.
    • Azay-le-Rideau: During your visit to Château de Cheverny, your Local Expert will show you the château's decor and aristocratic costumes of the family through the centuries. Inhabited by the same family for more than 6 centuries, the castle, its gardens and its connection to Tintin will provide an unforgettable experience.
    • Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.

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    Make Travel Matter

    Loire Valley: Discover the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry. In the scenic Loire Valley, explore France’s finest formal gardens. Now a hub for sustainability preserving the estate's biological diversity, learn all about the a sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages, and purple basil, all grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. Their aim is to preserve a remarkable garden, maintained with meticulous care, while incorporating maintenance work into a balanced ecosystem. They have partnered with a local university to bring biodiversity back into the gardens.  Villandry Gardens advance UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land.

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    Authentic Dining

    Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.

    Saumur: Learn about local grape varieties and regional wine-making traditions as you sample wines of the Loire Valley.

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    Insight Choice

    Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in the heart of the Old Town.

    Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome To Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before enjoying a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by fresh home-made recipes.

Day 2: Rouen, Honfleur And Deauville

Location: Paris, Rouen, Deauville

Accommodation: Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville.

Accommodation Name: Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville

Meals Included: Breakfast

Follow the River Seine to Rouen, capital of Normandy, to admire its ancient cathedral - a masterpiece of Gothic style and the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the narrow streets beneath the Great Clock to the Old Market Square. Here, a superb modern church memorialises the burning of Joan of Arc on this very spot in 1431. Continue to the charming fishing town of Honfleur and wander along the harbor or stroll through the colorful streets. Close by, meet a farming family who grow apples to produce local juice, cider and calvados of Normandy. Sample the local produce paired with Normandy cheese. Later, arrive at your luxurious hotel, located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville.

Day 3: Normandy Beaches And D-Day Landings

Location: Deauville, Omaha Beach, Arromanches-les-Bains, Gold Beach, Deauville

Accommodation: Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville.

Accommodation Name: Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville

Meals Included: Breakfast

Follow the route of the Rangers and visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Then with a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach. Explore Normandy with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay. Alternatively, visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and learn about the epic story of William, Duke of Normandy becoming the King of England. This evening you are treated to a delightful dinner, which promises creative cuisine, seasonal ingredients and delicious wines.

Day 4: Mont Saint-Michel And Saint-Malo

Location: Deauville, Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo

Accommodation: Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde, St Malo.

Accommodation Name: Le Nouveau Monde, St Malo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through bocage country and explore the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel with your Local Expert. Situated on an island, the abbey is reached by a bridge across the shining sands. Behind the outer ring of defences huddles the small town – its singular street containing shops, cafes and hotels. Continue along the Emerald Coast to stunning Saint-Malo, situated on the Rance Estuary and one of the most charming places in France. A Local Expert will take you on an exploration of the City of the Corsairs. Walk through the maze of streets of Intra Muros, the walled city, home of Jacques Cartier and other celebrated voyagers. At your leisure, you can wander around the ramparts of the thick city walls, offering fantastic views over the old town and the bay. By night, the town’s medieval maze of winding streets is abuzz with quaint bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional experience to Cancale, known throughout France for its oyster beds, for a delicious meal of fresh seafood and other Breton specialties.

Day 5: Villandry Experience

Location: Saint-Malo, Angers, Saumur, Montlouis-sur-Loire

Accommodation: Relais Des Landes

Accommodation Name: Chateau de la Bourdaisiere

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head south to follow the valley of the Loire, passing the moated Angers Castle. Cross the Loire to Saumur, where a local vintner will guide you through tastings of the region's delicious wines. Head to Château de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Ensure you don't miss the water, ornamental and kitchen gardens. This stunning sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages and purple basil is grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. Continue to your very own castle hotel and admire its extensive gardens and potager.

Day 6: Scenic Drive Along The Loire Valley

Location: Loire-Ouchamps, Cheverny, Montlouis-sur-Loire

Accommodation: Relais Des Landes

Accommodation Name: Chateau de la Bourdaisiere

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Journey to the fairytale Château d'Azay-le-Rideau where your Local Expert will show you the château's decor and return to your turreted château for relaxation. This evening, your dinner starts with a glass of local sparkling wine and continues with excellent service and delicious Farm-to-Table dishes in the most wholesome setting, ensuring the memory of your meal will linger long after you've returned home.

Day 7: La Beauce And Chartres To Paris, City Of Light

Location: Loire-Ouchamps, Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris or similar.

Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Traveling through the vast wheat fields of the the Beauce region, Chartres Cathedral, nicknamed the 'Acropolis of France' by August Rodin, looms large on the horizon. Enjoy a guided tour of this architectural delight.From here, return to the French capital where your Travel Director introduces you to the fabulous sights of Paris, including the vast Place de la Concorde, where the guillotine once stood. Travel up the Champs Élysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. After dark, the City of Light really lives up to its name, when the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour, don't miss the chance to experience a world-famous cabaret show.

Day 8: Au Revoir Paris

Location: Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, bid farewell to your journey through the French countryside as you transfer to the airport.

What's Included

  • Meals

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners with wine, and 2 additional dinners.

  • Museum Visits

    Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and the D-Day Museum in Arromanches.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Personal radio headsets are provided for freedom to wander during visits without missing commentary.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included, along with all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

  • Luggage Handling

    Bags are carried and promptly delivered to your hotel door.

  • Insight Flourish

    Occasional local specialties are provided by the Travel Director.

  • Wi-Fi

    Complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi is available where possible.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are available at scheduled times if flights align with itinerary start and end dates.

  • Local Expert Tours

    Guided tours with Local Experts at various locations including Mont-Saint-Michel and Saint-Malo.

  • Luxury Coach

    Travel in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

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What's Not Included

  • Optional Experiences

    Optional experiences such as a meal in Cancale are not included in the tour price.

  • Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    Transfers for flights outside the scheduled times or for additional nights are not included.

  • Cabaret Show

    The world-famous cabaret show in Paris is not included in the tour price.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach, featuring double the standard legroom, an onboard washroom, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a relaxing journey through the picturesque landscapes of France.

Accommodation

Experience luxurious stays at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf in Deauville, Le Nouveau Monde in St Malo, and the charming Chateau de la Bourdaisiere, offering comfort and elegance throughout your journey.

Dining Summary

  • 2 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 7 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Dinner (D)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of dining experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of dining experiences such as a Welcome Dinner in Paris with cuisine inspired by fresh home-made recipes, a dinner with creative cuisine and seasonal ingredients in Normandy, and a dinner featuring Farm-to-Table dishes in the Loire Valley. Additionally, there are opportunities to sample local produce like Normandy cheese and cider.

  • Are there any special experiences related to local culture or history during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers several special experiences related to local culture and history. For example, you will visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and the D-Day Museum in Arromanches, explore the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, and have a guided tour of the Chartres Cathedral. Additionally, you will learn about local grape varieties and wine-making traditions in the Loire Valley.

  • What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?

    Accommodations during the tour include stays at luxurious hotels such as Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf in Deauville, and Le Nouveau Monde in St Malo. You will also stay at a castle hotel, Chateau de la Bourdaisiere, in the Loire Valley.

  • Is there any flexibility in the itinerary for personal exploration?

    Yes, there is some flexibility in the itinerary for personal exploration. For instance, in Saint-Malo, you have the leisure to wander around the ramparts and explore the city's nightlife. Additionally, there is an optional experience to Cancale for a meal of fresh seafood.

  • What measures are in place for comfort and safety during the tour?

    The tour ensures comfort and safety with luxurious, air-conditioned coaches that have double the standard legroom and onboard washrooms. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour, and physical distancing measures are implemented. Hand sanitizer is also freely available on board.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

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The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

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$3996

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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