Normandy Region
A region of history
Normandy takes its name from the « men of the north », the Vikings, who colonized the region at the end of the 8th century, with recurring incursions up the Seine, pillaging and burning villages, farms and abbeys. It was necessary to wait for a peace treaty in 911 with the king of France, granting the leader Rollo the duchy of Normandy. The latter’s conversion to Christianity allowed the assimilation of this people, even if Danish was still spoken until the 12th century in the region.
Thus Normandy remained an autonomous region with a duke, and a parliament in Rouen, its capital. Today it is one of the thirteen regions of France, with a council but whose prerogatives are much narrower than a Spanish region or a German lander.
The best known dukes of Normandy are William the Conqueror (+1087) and Richard the Lionheart (+1199), who were also kings of England, thanks to the victory at the Battle of Hastings (1066). The magnificent medieval town of Bayeux is home to a famous tapestry recounting this memorable battle in detail. The city being located next to the D-DAY landing beaches, it is possible to organize a tailor-made excursion, and why not visit the castle of William of Conqueror in Falaise and his tomb in an Abbey of Caen?
The DNA of Normandy includes the green meadows where dairy cows graze, which will produce the famous cheeses of Camembert, Pont-l-Eveque and Livarot. The racing horses, the apple trees that produce cider and calvados, the typical villages with thatched roofs and half-timbered facades, all this is the Normandy that we want you to discover !
When is the best time to visit the Normandy region?
Normandy offers unique charms throughout the year. Spring (April to June) is ideal with its blooming landscapes and mild temperatures. Summer (July-August) attracts visitors with its sunny days and summer activities. Autumn (September-October) captivates with its autumn colors and local produce. Winter (November to March) offers a tranquil and authentic atmosphere. Choose your favorite season and discover the beauty of Normandy!
Normandy region in figures
61 000 000
bottles of Cider
9000
hectares of orchard
725
riding stables
600
farms producing milk for cheeses
3000
cider apple producers
355
kilometers of coast