03.06.2018 - Tour Normandy coast (F)
03.06.2018 - Tour Normandy coast (F)
03.06.2018 - Tour Normandy coast (F)
Frankrijk
03.06.18, everything is loaded, we leave for Normandy. The intention is to follow the entire coast, with stops inland. Ultimately we will be on the road for 24 days.

Our first stop is Fécamp. We park there for 3 days at a campsite (Domaine de Renéville). We reserved a place in advance. And as it turned out… our place was very popular with future motor home owners. From every place, and certainly ours, you have a beautiful view of the sea, partly due to the terraced construction. The sun is shining brightly, it is quiet. Due to the terracing it is very steep and you have to take the many stairs. 72 steps from our place to the dike, but well worth it!

That evening we enjoy a dazzling sunset.

Day 2
Help! The sea is gone! It's cold and foggy. What a difference from the previous day. Okay, then with long pants, sweater and cardigan. We walk in fifteen minutes to the centre of Fécamp. After visiting the town and its fishing port, we head to the Palais Bénédictine. The one and only Bénédictine liqueur is made in this abbey (rather a palace with many art treasures). The entire process is shown, the 28 aromatic herbs, the percentages of alcohol… The real recipe remains a secret, however. And then you can taste! Nobody says that it is cold and wet outside!
Day 3
Rain, wind, cold… Well-dressed we leave with the regular bus (2 euros for 35 km) to Etretat. Very beautiful town, old buildings, a covered market hall with nice shops full of artisan products ... Despite the bad weather we drive with the tourist train to the cliffs, the "falaise d'Amont". There you normally get a sublime panorama of Etretat, with the famous chalk cliffs, the "needle" and the "elephant". But now there are raging waves, strong gusts. We can just perceive them through the fog. Fortunately no rain for a while. Back in town we buy a postcard with a view in sunny weather.

Day 4
Via the “Pont de Normandy” (a long toll bridge over the Seine) we drive in the rain and fog to Honfleur. There are 240 places on the motorhome park. Yet it was almost full. Just look for a place where there is an electricity connection and where there are no too large mud pits in the pitch. The camper place is somewhat reminiscent of a gypsy camp on the outskirts of the city. Honfleur itself is quite a beautiful town, expensive but worth a visit. It is wonderful to stroll through the picturesque streets. Around "Le Vieux Bassin" (the old harbour basin), there are many old houses with beautiful facades, boutiques and restaurants. There is a pleasant bustle and it is wonderful to relax on one of the many terraces.
Day 5
Next stop, Deauville. Just outside the centre we find a place on the camper stop. It is difficult to manoeuvre. A few years ago they even destroyed the service station. It never came back! Finally some sun! Deauville - the “Cannes”  of Normandy - with its beautiful houses from the time of Coco Chanel, old-school playboys at the wheel of a fat Maserati, Ferrari, etc… shops of Dior, Gucci, Armani. Its casino and very expensive hotels, restaurants and terraces. It is best to buy your new pants or sweater elsewhere or your entire holiday budget is gone. The beach is characterized by its multi-coloured umbrellas and beach chairs. The promenade along the beach 'les planches' is famous for the beach huts that bear the names of the movie stars who once visited Deauville. On the way back to the camper place we still enjoy the grandeur of this place and a terrace should not be missed.
Day 6
We drive to Lisieux, a place of pilgrimage. The basilica is impressive and must be seen. Splendour everywhere, built in a period of great contrasts and where most people had to struggle for a dry crust of bread. Everything revolves around Saint Thérèse. We spend the night on the very quiet camper stop in Beuvron-en-Auges. There is no electricity and the service station is 200 m away. The village is known as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. It has been able to maintain its historic character well. Originally many craftsmen lived there. Today there is still a large craft centre. The village itself is small (one street) but cosy. The cider is delicious!
Day 7
From Beuvron we do the cider route. It is a signposted route along the beautiful landscape. You will pass several beautiful villages. There are about 20 cider farmers and producers of Calvados along the route. You are welcome everywhere. And yes, you can taste, but you also have to drive. So make sure you have a DD on board! we took the opportunity to replenish our stock.
Day 8
Finally we have warmer weather. We continue our journey towards Caen. The intention was to visit the city centre, but we found no place to park our motorhome. The only place where motorhomes could stand was taken up by the weekly market. We then immediately drove on to "Le Mémorial", the memorial museum in Caen. This museum is entirely dedicated to the "Battle of Normandy" at the end of the Second World War. It's best to spend a whole day here. The museum is huge, both inside and out.
In addition to the various performances inside, there are several commemorative monuments and the "bunker" outside. The plants are typical of the country of the war memorial (eg the Canadian monument is surrounded by maples and other typical Canadian plants, trees and flowers).
The next two nights we will stay at a campsite in Arromanches. If there is no motorhome site nearby, you can always go to a campsite of the municipality (always neat, practical and cheap). Reservations are not necessary in the low season. There is always a place.
Day 9
Today and tomorrow the landing beaches from the Second World War are on the program. Today Gold Beach in Arromanches. We were on the beach in 5 minutes from the rear of the campsite. Throughout the month of June, and certainly during the memorial weekend, there are a lot of people (British, Americans, Australians, etc.) and there are also a lot of old army vehicles to see. Not to mention the numerous commemorative ceremonies. Special atmosphere!
A large artificial harbour was built in Arromanches to supply the Allied troops. The remains can still be seen. We also visit the "Musée du Débarquement". From the hill top you have a good overview of the remains and you can imagine how big this harbour was. Above is also a 360 degree cinema, in which the history of the Battle of Normandy is portrayed in an impressive way. We did not enter the cinema.
Day 10
Via Longues-Sur-Mer, where we saw remnants of the gun batteries and some bomb craters, we went to Omaha Beach. In Colleville-Sur-Mer we visited the "Normandy American Cimetary". The US forces suffered very heavy losses on Omaha Beach on D-Day, hence the sad nickname “Bloody Omaha”. 9386 American soldiers are buried in this cemetery!

Pointe-du Hoc was the landing site of the 2nd Rangers.
This protruding rocky outcrop was strategically located along the coast of Normandy. Since the rock rises about 30 meters above the sea, the Rangers had to climb ropes to take out the guns afterwards.

Unbelievable how someone from behind his desk drew up a plan, code name "Neptune", killing thousands of men and even boys, and this just to recapture the coast.

We then drive away from the coast, towards Bayeux. Again we spend the night at a municipal campsite. There was one place left where we arrived with our cables (30m) to purchase power.
Day 11
From the campsite we walk to the centre of Bayeux. The historical core radiates a stately atmosphere. The Notre-Dame cathedral is definitely worth a visit. Don't miss the famous Bayeux tapestry, "Le Tapisserie de Bayeux"! The length of the carpet is 70 meters and it is 50 cm high and tells the story of the battle of Hastings (in 1066) under William the Conqueror. The story is divided into 58 pieces with commentary in Latin. Because many people, that time, could not read, the full story is understandable through the drawings. Please note: if you want to see the carpet, keep in mind that it may move to England for a few years in 2020 (in 2021 it is still on site!).
Day 12
The free camper stop in Saint-Lo is getting nowhere. As we arrived there comes gypsies at the motorhome. They say hello in a friendly way, but ... we drove on wisely! Turns out they have made their home there. Half of the parking lot was occupied by their caravans. Then just drive on to the Camping-Car Park de Carentan. This motorhome stopover is only accessible with a pass’Etapes card!
In the marina of Carentan we found an American landing boat that effectively participated in the Normandy landings on D-Day. It is the only one remaining in Europe! The LCVP (called Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel or Higgins Boat) PA30-4.
Day 13
Under a radiant sun we visit Sainte-Mère-Eglise. More than 15,000 American paratroopers were dropped to support the invasion. One American hung from the tower of the church with his parachute. That poor parachutist is still hanging from the church tower. Like thousands of tourists before us, we visited the Airborne museum. Utah Beach was also on our checklist. Although no traces of the war can be found on this 5 km long beach, it is certainly worth visiting.

We spend the night at Camping-Car Park Utah Beach. Again with the pass'Etapes card. In the overview of the places to stay and in the tips we give more information about this card.
At the camper stop we had the company of a Guernsey cow and a donkey (albeit behind the fence). The cow loved nothing more than you scratching her ears. She enjoyed it so much that she leaned heavily against the wire, causing it to almost give up.
03.06.18, everything is loaded, we leave for Normandy. The intention is to follow the entire coast, with stops inland. Ultimately we will be on the road for 24 days.

Our first stop is Fécamp. We park there for 3 days at a campsite (Domaine de Renéville). We reserved a place in advance. And as it turned out… our place was very popular with future motor home owners. From every place, and certainly ours, you have a beautiful view of the sea, partly due to the terraced construction. The sun is shining brightly, it is quiet. Due to the terracing it is very steep and you have to take the many stairs. 72 steps from our place to the dike, but well worth it!

That evening we enjoy a dazzling sunset.

Day 2
Help! The sea is gone! It's cold and foggy. What a difference from the previous day. Okay, then with long pants, sweater and cardigan. We walk in fifteen minutes to the centre of Fécamp. After visiting the town and its fishing port, we head to the Palais Bénédictine. The one and only Bénédictine liqueur is made in this abbey (rather a palace with many art treasures). The entire process is shown, the 28 aromatic herbs, the percentages of alcohol… The real recipe remains a secret, however. And then you can taste! Nobody says that it is cold and wet outside!
Day 3
Rain, wind, cold… Well-dressed we leave with the regular bus (2 euros for 35 km) to Etretat. Very beautiful town, old buildings, a covered market hall with nice shops full of artisan products ... Despite the bad weather we drive with the tourist train to the cliffs, the "falaise d'Amont". There you normally get a sublime panorama of Etretat, with the famous chalk cliffs, the "needle" and the "elephant". But now there are raging waves, strong gusts. We can just perceive them through the fog. Fortunately no rain for a while. Back in town we buy a postcard with a view in sunny weather.

Day 4
Via the “Pont de Normandy” (a long toll bridge over the Seine) we drive in the rain and fog to Honfleur. There are 240 places on the motorhome park. Yet it was almost full. Just look for a place where there is an electricity connection and where there are no too large mud pits in the pitch. The camper place is somewhat reminiscent of a gypsy camp on the outskirts of the city. Honfleur itself is quite a beautiful town, expensive but worth a visit. It is wonderful to stroll through the picturesque streets. Around "Le Vieux Bassin" (the old harbour basin), there are many old houses with beautiful facades, boutiques and restaurants. There is a pleasant bustle and it is wonderful to relax on one of the many terraces.
Day 5
Next stop, Deauville. Just outside the centre we find a place on the camper stop. It is difficult to manoeuvre. A few years ago they even destroyed the service station. It never came back! Finally some sun! Deauville - the “Cannes”  of Normandy - with its beautiful houses from the time of Coco Chanel, old-school playboys at the wheel of a fat Maserati, Ferrari, etc… shops of Dior, Gucci, Armani. Its casino and very expensive hotels, restaurants and terraces. It is best to buy your new pants or sweater elsewhere or your entire holiday budget is gone. The beach is characterized by its multi-coloured umbrellas and beach chairs. The promenade along the beach 'les planches' is famous for the beach huts that bear the names of the movie stars who once visited Deauville. On the way back to the camper place we still enjoy the grandeur of this place and a terrace should not be missed.
Day 6
We drive to Lisieux, a place of pilgrimage. The basilica is impressive and must be seen. Splendour everywhere, built in a period of great contrasts and where most people had to struggle for a dry crust of bread. Everything revolves around Saint Thérèse. We spend the night on the very quiet camper stop in Beuvron-en-Auges. There is no electricity and the service station is 200 m away. The village is known as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. It has been able to maintain its historic character well. Originally many craftsmen lived there. Today there is still a large craft centre. The village itself is small (one street) but cosy. The cider is delicious!
Day 7
From Beuvron we do the cider route. It is a signposted route along the beautiful landscape. You will pass several beautiful villages. There are about 20 cider farmers and producers of Calvados along the route. You are welcome everywhere. And yes, you can taste, but you also have to drive. So make sure you have a DD on board! we took the opportunity to replenish our stock.
Day 8
Finally we have warmer weather. We continue our journey towards Caen. The intention was to visit the city centre, but we found no place to park our motorhome. The only place where motorhomes could stand was taken up by the weekly market. We then immediately drove on to "Le Mémorial", the memorial museum in Caen. This museum is entirely dedicated to the "Battle of Normandy" at the end of the Second World War. It's best to spend a whole day here. The museum is huge, both inside and out.
In addition to the various performances inside, there are several commemorative monuments and the "bunker" outside. The plants are typical of the country of the war memorial (eg the Canadian monument is surrounded by maples and other typical Canadian plants, trees and flowers).
The next two nights we will stay at a campsite in Arromanches. If there is no motorhome site nearby, you can always go to a campsite of the municipality (always neat, practical and cheap). Reservations are not necessary in the low season. There is always a place.
Day 9
Today and tomorrow the landing beaches from the Second World War are on the program. Today Gold Beach in Arromanches. We were on the beach in 5 minutes from the rear of the campsite. Throughout the month of June, and certainly during the memorial weekend, there are a lot of people (British, Americans, Australians, etc.) and there are also a lot of old army vehicles to see. Not to mention the numerous commemorative ceremonies. Special atmosphere!
A large artificial harbour was built in Arromanches to supply the Allied troops. The remains can still be seen. We also visit the "Musée du Débarquement". From the hill top you have a good overview of the remains and you can imagine how big this harbour was. Above is also a 360 degree cinema, in which the history of the Battle of Normandy is portrayed in an impressive way. We did not enter the cinema.
Day 10
Via Longues-Sur-Mer, where we saw remnants of the gun batteries and some bomb craters, we went to Omaha Beach. In Colleville-Sur-Mer we visited the "Normandy American Cimetary". The US forces suffered very heavy losses on Omaha Beach on D-Day, hence the sad nickname “Bloody Omaha”. 9386 American soldiers are buried in this cemetery!

Pointe-du Hoc was the landing site of the 2nd Rangers.
This protruding rocky outcrop was strategically located along the coast of Normandy. Since the rock rises about 30 meters above the sea, the Rangers had to climb ropes to take out the guns afterwards.

Unbelievable how someone from behind his desk drew up a plan, code name "Neptune", killing thousands of men and even boys, and this just to recapture the coast.

We then drive away from the coast, towards Bayeux. Again we spend the night at a municipal campsite. There was one place left where we arrived with our cables (30m) to purchase power.
Day 11
From the campsite we walk to the centre of Bayeux. The historical core radiates a stately atmosphere. The Notre-Dame cathedral is definitely worth a visit. Don't miss the famous Bayeux tapestry, "Le Tapisserie de Bayeux"! The length of the carpet is 70 meters and it is 50 cm high and tells the story of the battle of Hastings (in 1066) under William the Conqueror. The story is divided into 58 pieces with commentary in Latin. Because many people, that time, could not read, the full story is understandable through the drawings. Please note: if you want to see the carpet, keep in mind that it may move to England for a few years in 2020 (in 2021 it is still on site!).
Day 12
The free camper stop in Saint-Lo is getting nowhere. As we arrived there comes gypsies at the motorhome. They say hello in a friendly way, but ... we drove on wisely! Turns out they have made their home there. Half of the parking lot was occupied by their caravans. Then just drive on to the Camping-Car Park de Carentan. This motorhome stopover is only accessible with a pass’Etapes card!
In the marina of Carentan we found an American landing boat that effectively participated in the Normandy landings on D-Day. It is the only one remaining in Europe! The LCVP (called Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel or Higgins Boat) PA30-4.
03.06.18, everything is loaded, we leave for Normandy. The intention is to follow the entire coast, with stops inland. Ultimately we will be on the road for 24 days.

Our first stop is Fécamp. We park there for 3 days at a campsite (Domaine de Renéville). We reserved a place in advance. And as it turned out… our place was very popular with future motor home owners. From every place, and certainly ours, you have a beautiful view of the sea, partly due to the terraced construction. The sun is shining brightly, it is quiet. Due to the terracing it is very steep and you have to take the many stairs. 72 steps from our place to the dike, but well worth it!

That evening we enjoy a dazzling sunset.
Day 2
Help! The sea is gone! It's cold and foggy. What a difference from the previous day. Okay, then with long pants, sweater and cardigan. We walk in fifteen minutes to the centre of Fécamp. After visiting the town and its fishing port, we head to the Palais Bénédictine. The one and only Bénédictine liqueur is made in this abbey (rather a palace with many art treasures). The entire process is shown, the 28 aromatic herbs, the percentages of alcohol… The real recipe remains a secret, however. And then you can taste! Nobody says that it is cold and wet outside!
Day 3
Rain, wind, cold… Well-dressed we leave with the regular bus (2 euros for 35 km) to Etretat. Very beautiful town, old buildings, a covered market hall with nice shops full of artisan products ... Despite the bad weather we drive with the tourist train to the cliffs, the "falaise d'Amont". There you normally get a sublime panorama of Etretat, with the famous chalk cliffs, the "needle" and the "elephant". But now there are raging waves, strong gusts. We can just perceive them through the fog. Fortunately no rain for a while. Back in town we buy a postcard with a view in sunny weather.
Day 4
Via the “Pont de Normandy” (a long toll bridge over the Seine) we drive in the rain and fog to Honfleur. There are 240 places on the motorhome park. Yet it was almost full. Just look for a place where there is an electricity connection and where there are no too large mud pits in the pitch. The camper place is somewhat reminiscent of a gypsy camp on the outskirts of the city. Honfleur itself is quite a beautiful town, expensive but worth a visit. It is wonderful to stroll through the picturesque streets. Around "Le Vieux Bassin" (the old harbour basin), there are many old houses with beautiful facades, boutiques and restaurants. There is a pleasant bustle and it is wonderful to relax on one of the many terraces.
Day 5
Next stop, Deauville. Just outside the centre we find a place on the camper stop. It is difficult to manoeuvre. A few years ago they even destroyed the service station. It never came back! Finally some sun! Deauville - the “Cannes”  of Normandy - with its beautiful houses from the time of Coco Chanel, old-school playboys at the wheel of a fat Maserati, Ferrari, etc… shops of Dior, Gucci, Armani. Its casino and very expensive hotels, restaurants and terraces. It is best to buy your new pants or sweater elsewhere or your entire holiday budget is gone. The beach is characterized by its multi-coloured umbrellas and beach chairs. The promenade along the beach 'les planches' is famous for the beach huts that bear the names of the movie stars who once visited Deauville. On the way back to the camper place we still enjoy the grandeur of this place and a terrace should not be missed.
Day 6
We drive to Lisieux, a place of pilgrimage. The basilica is impressive and must be seen. Splendour everywhere, built in a period of great contrasts and where most people had to struggle for a dry crust of bread. Everything revolves around Saint Thérèse. We spend the night on the very quiet camper stop in Beuvron-en-Auges. There is no electricity and the service station is 200 m away. The village is known as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. It has been able to maintain its historic character well. Originally many craftsmen lived there. Today there is still a large craft centre. The village itself is small (one street) but cosy. The cider is delicious!
Day 7
From Beuvron we do the cider route. It is a signposted route along the beautiful landscape. You will pass several beautiful villages. There are about 20 cider farmers and producers of Calvados along the route. You are welcome everywhere. And yes, you can taste, but you also have to drive. So make sure you have a DD on board! we took the opportunity to replenish our stock.
Day 8
Finally we have warmer weather. We continue our journey towards Caen. The intention was to visit the city centre, but we found no place to park our motorhome. The only place where motorhomes could stand was taken up by the weekly market. We then immediately drove on to "Le Mémorial", the memorial museum in Caen. This museum is entirely dedicated to the "Battle of Normandy" at the end of the Second World War. It's best to spend a whole day here. The museum is huge, both inside and out.
In addition to the various performances inside, there are several commemorative monuments and the "bunker" outside. The plants are typical of the country of the war memorial (eg the Canadian monument is surrounded by maples and other typical Canadian plants, trees and flowers).
The next two nights we will stay at a campsite in Arromanches. If there is no motorhome site nearby, you can always go to a campsite of the municipality (always neat, practical and cheap). Reservations are not necessary in the low season. There is always a place.
Day 9
Today and tomorrow the landing beaches from the Second World War are on the program. Today Gold Beach in Arromanches. We were on the beach in 5 minutes from the rear of the campsite. Throughout the month of June, and certainly during the memorial weekend, there are a lot of people (British, Americans, Australians, etc.) and there are also a lot of old army vehicles to see. Not to mention the numerous commemorative ceremonies. Special atmosphere!
A large artificial harbour was built in Arromanches to supply the Allied troops. The remains can still be seen. We also visit the "Musée du Débarquement". From the hill top you have a good overview of the remains and you can imagine how big this harbour was. Above is also a 360 degree cinema, in which the history of the Battle of Normandy is portrayed in an impressive way. We did not enter the cinema.
Day 10
Via Longues-Sur-Mer, where we saw remnants of the gun batteries and some bomb craters, we went to Omaha Beach. In Colleville-Sur-Mer we visited the "Normandy American Cimetary". The US forces suffered very heavy losses on Omaha Beach on D-Day, hence the sad nickname “Bloody Omaha”. 9386 American soldiers are buried in this cemetery!

Pointe-du Hoc was the landing site of the 2nd Rangers.
This protruding rocky outcrop was strategically located along the coast of Normandy. Since the rock rises about 30 meters above the sea, the Rangers had to climb ropes to take out the guns afterwards.

Unbelievable how someone from behind his desk drew up a plan, code name "Neptune", killing thousands of men and even boys, and this just to recapture the coast.

We then drive away from the coast, towards Bayeux. Again we spend the night at a municipal campsite. There was one place left where we arrived with our cables (30m) to purchase power.
Day 11
From the campsite we walk to the centre of Bayeux. The historical core radiates a stately atmosphere. The Notre-Dame cathedral is definitely worth a visit. Don't miss the famous Bayeux tapestry, "Le Tapisserie de Bayeux"! The length of the carpet is 70 meters and it is 50 cm high and tells the story of the battle of Hastings (in 1066) under William the Conqueror. The story is divided into 58 pieces with commentary in Latin. Because many people, that time, could not read, the full story is understandable through the drawings. Please note: if you want to see the carpet, keep in mind that it may move to England for a few years in 2020 (in 2021 it is still on site!).
Day 12
The free camper stop in Saint-Lo is getting nowhere. As we arrived there comes gypsies at the motorhome. They say hello in a friendly way, but ... we drove on wisely! Turns out they have made their home there. Half of the parking lot was occupied by their caravans. Then just drive on to the Camping-Car Park de Carentan. This motorhome stopover is only accessible with a pass’Etapes card!
In the marina of Carentan we found an American landing boat that effectively participated in the Normandy landings on D-Day. It is the only one remaining in Europe! The LCVP (called Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel or Higgins Boat) PA30-4.
Day 13
Under a radiant sun we visit Sainte-Mère-Eglise. More than 15,000 American paratroopers were dropped to support the invasion. One American hung from the tower of the church with his parachute. That poor parachutist is still hanging from the church tower. Like thousands of tourists before us, we visited the Airborne museum. Utah Beach was also on our checklist. Although no traces of the war can be found on this 5 km long beach, it is certainly worth visiting.

We spend the night at Camping-Car Park Utah Beach. Again with the pass'Etapes card. In the overview of the places to stay and in the tips we give more information about this card.
At the camper stop we had the company of a Guernsey cow and a donkey (albeit behind the fence). The cow loved nothing more than you scratching her ears. She enjoyed it so much that she leaned heavily against the wire, causing it to almost give up.
03.06.2018 -
Rondreis Normandische kust
03/06/18, alles is ingeladen, we vertrekken naar Normandië.  De bedoeling is om de volledige kust te volgen, met tussenstops in het binnenland. Uiteindelijk zullen we 24 dagen onderweg zijn.

Onze eerste halte is Fécamp. We parkeren er voor 3 dagen op een camping (Domaine de Renéville).  We hadden op voorhand een plaats gereserveerd. En wat bleek… onze plaats was zeer gegeerd bij toekomende camperaars. Vanop elke plaats, en zeker de onze, heb je, mede door de terrasvormige aanleg, een prachtig zicht op zee.  De zon schijnt volop, het is er rustig. Door de terrasvorming is het er wel zeer steil en de vele trappen moet je er bijnemen.  72 trappen van onze plaats naar de dijk, maar zeker de moeite waard!

Die avond genieten we van een oogverblindende zonsondergang.
SONY DSC
Dag 2
Help! De zee is weg!  Het is koud en mistig. Wat een verschil met de voorgaande dag. Ok, dan maar met een lange broek, trui en vest. We wandelen in een kwartiertje naar het centrum van Fécamp. Na een bezoek aan het stadje en zijn vissershaven, trekken we naar het Palais Bénédictine.  In deze abdij (eerder een paleis met heel veel kunstschatten) wordt de enige echte Bénédictine likeur gemaakt.  Het ganse proces wordt getoond, de 28 aromatische kruiden, de percentages alcohol… Het echte recept blijft echter geheim.  En dan kan je proeven!  Niemand die nog zegt dat het koud en nat is buiten!
SONY DSC
Dag 3
Regen, wind, koud… Goed ingeduffeld vertrekken we met de lijnbus (2 euro voor 35 km) naar Etretat.  Zeer mooi stadje, oude gebouwen, een overdekte markthal met leuke winkeltjes vol ambachtelijke producten… Ondanks het rotweer rijden we met een treintje naar de kliffen, de ‘falaise d'Amont’. Daar krijg je normaal  een subliem panorama van Etretat, met de befaamde krijtrotsen, de ‘naald’ en de ‘olifant’.  Maar nu zijn er woeste golven, stevige rukwinden. Doorheen de mist kunnen we ze nog net waarnemen. Gelukkig even geen regen.  Terug in ’t stadje kopen we dan maar een postkaart met het uitzicht bij zonnig weer.

Dag 4
Via de Pont de Normandië rijden we in de regen en de mist naar Honfleur.  Op het camperpark zijn er 240 plaatsen. Toch was het er bijna volzet. Even zoeken naar een plaatsje waar er een elektriciteitsaansluiting is en waar er geen te grote modderputten in de staanplaats zijn. De camperplaats doet een beetje denken aan een zigeunerkamp aan de rand van de stad.  Honfleur zelf is best een mooi stadje, wel duur maar een bezoekje waard. Het is heerlijk flaneren door de pittoreske straatjes. Rondom ‘Le Vieux Bassin’ (de oude havenkom), zijn vele oude huizen met prachtige gevels, boetiekjes en restaurants. Er heerst een gezellige drukte en het is er heerlijk vertoeven op één van de vele terrasjes.
SONY DSC
Dag 5
Volgende halte, Deauville. Net buiten het centrum vinden we een plaatsje op de camperplaats. Het is er moeilijk manoeuvreren. Een paar jaar geleden reden ze er zelfs het servicestation in de prak. Het is er nooit teruggekomen! Eindelijk een beetje zon! Deauville - het Knokke-Zoute van Normandië - met zijn prachtige huizen uit de tijd van Coco Chanel, overjaarse playboys aan het stuur van een dikke Maserati, Ferrari, enz… winkels van Dior, Gucci, Armani. Zijn casino en zeer dure hotels, restaurants en terrasjes.  Best je nieuwe broek of truitje elders kopen of je ganse vakantiebudget is op.  Het strand wordt getypeerd door zijn veelkleurige parasols en strandzetels. De promenade langs het strand 'les planches' is beroemd voor de strandcabines die de namen dragen van de filmsterren die ooit Deauville bezocht hebben. Op de terugweg naar de camperplaats genieten we nog van de grandeur van deze plaats en mocht een terrasje doen niet ontbreken.
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
Dag 6
We rijden naar Lisieux, een bedevaartsoord. De basiliek is indrukwekkend en moet je echt gezien hebben. Pracht en praal alom, gebouwd in een periode met grote contrasten en waar de meeste mensen moesten ploeteren voor een droge korst brood.  Alles draait er om de Heilige Thérèse.  Overnachten doen we op de zeer rustige camperplaats in Beuvron-en-Auges. Er is geen elektriciteit en het servicestation staat 200 m verder.  Het dorpje staat bekend als één van de mooiste dorpjes van heel Frankrijk. Het heeft zijn historisch karakter goed kunnen behouden. Oorspronkelijk woonden er veel ambachtslieden. Vandaag is er nog altijd een groot ambacht centrum. Het dorp zelf is klein (één straat) maar gezellig. De cider is er overheerlijk!
SONY DSC
Dag 7
Vanuit Beuvron doen we de ciderroute.  Het is een bewegwijzerde route langs het mooie landschap. Je komt langs verschillende mooie dorpjes. Langs de route zijn er ongeveer 20 ciderboeren en producenten van Calvados. Je bent overal welkom. En ja, je mag proeven, maar je moet ook nog rijden.  Zorg dus voor een BOB aan boord! Onze voorraad was wel meteen aangevuld.
SONY DSC
Dag 8
Eindelijk hebben we warmer weer. Onze reis zetten we verder richting Caen. De bedoeling was om de binnenstad te bezoeken, doch we vonden er nergens plaats om onze motorhome te parkeren. De enige plaats waar motorhomes konden staat was in beslag genomen door de wekelijkse markt. We reden dan maar onmiddellijk door naar ‘Le Mémorial’, het herdenkingsmuseum in Caen.  Dit museum is volledig gewijd aan “slag van Normandië” op het einde van de tweede wereldoorlog. Hier spendeer je best een hele dag. Het museum is enorm, zowel binnen als buiten. 
SONY DSC
Naast de diverse voorstellingen binnen zijn er buiten diverse herdenkingsmonumenten en de ‘bunker’. De planten zijn typisch voor het land van het oorlogsmonument (bv. het Canadees monument is omgeven door esdoorns en andere typisch Canadese planten, bomen en bloemen). 
De volgende twee nachten verblijven we op een camping in Arromanches. Wanneer er geen camperplaats in de buurt is, kan je steeds terecht op een camping  van de gemeente (steeds netjes, praktisch en goedkoop). Reserveren is in het laagseizoen niet nodig. Er is altijd wel een plaatsje.
Dag 9
Vandaag en morgen staan de landingsstranden uit de tweede wereldoorlog op het programma.  Vandaag Gold Beach in Arromanches. Via de achterzijde van de camping stonden we op 5 minuten op het strand. Gans de maand juni, en zeker tijdens het herdenkingsweekend, is er heel veel volk (Britten, Amerikanen, Australiërs, enz.) en zijn er ook heel wat oude legervoertuigen te zien.  Om nog maar te zwijgen over de talrijke herdenkingsplechtigheden. Speciale sfeer!
In Arromanches werd een grote kunstmatige haven aan gelegd om de geallieerde troepen te kunnen bevoorraden. De overblijfselen zijn er nog altijd te zien. We bezoeken eveneens het ‘Musée du Débarquement’. Vanop de heuvel heb je een goed overzicht op de overblijfselen en kan je je inbeelden hoe groot deze haven was. Hierboven is ook een 360 graden bioscoop, waarin de geschiedenis van de Slag om Normandië op indrukwekkende wijze in beeld wordt gebracht. Wij gingen niet kijken.
Dag 10
Via Longues-Sur-Mer, waar we restanten zagen van de geschutsbatterijen en enkele bomkraters, gingen we naar Omaha Beach. In  Colleville-Sur-Mer bezochten we het ‘Normandy American Cimetary’. De Amerikaanse troepen leden op D-Day zeer zware verliezen op Omaha Beach, vandaar de trieste bijnaam Bloody Omaha. Op deze begraafplaats liggen 9386 Amerikaanse soldaten begraven!

Pointe-du Hoc was dan weer de landingsplaats van de 2e Rangers.
Deze naar voren stekende rotspunt had een strategische ligging langs de kust van Normandië. Aangezien de rots zo’n 30 meter boven zee uitsteekt moesten de Rangers langs touwen naar boven klimmen om daarna de kanonnen te kunnen uitschakelen.

Ongelooflijk hoe iemand van achter zijn bureautje een plan opstelde, codenaam ‘Neptune’, en daarbij duizenden mannen en zelfs jongens de dood injoeg, en dit om enkel de kust te heroveren.

We rijden vervolgens van de kust weg, richting Bayeux. Opnieuw overnachten we er op een gemeentecamping. Er was nog één plaats waar met onze kabels (30m) toekwamen om netstroom af te nemen.
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
Dag 11
Vanop de camping stappen we naar het centrum van Bayeux.  De historische kern straalt een statige sfeer uit. De kathedraal Notre-Dame is zeker een bezoekje waard.  Het beroemde wandtapijt van Bayeux, ‘Le Tapisserie de Bayeux’ mag je natuurlijk niet missen! De lengte van het tapijt bedraagt 70 meter en het is 50 cm hoog en vertelt het verhaal van de slag om Hastings (in 1066) onder Willem de Veroveraar.  Het verhaal is ingedeeld in 58 stukken met commentaar in het Latijn. Omdat veel mensen niet konden lezen is het volledige verhaal begrijpbaar door de tekeningen. Opgelet: als je het tapijt wil zien hou er dan rekening mee dat het in 2020 mogelijks voor enkele jaren naar Engeland verhuist.
Dag 12
De gratis camperplaats in Saint-Lo wordt niks.  We staan nog niet goed stil of er staan zigeuners aan de mobilhome.  Ze zeggen wel vriendelijk goedendag maar… Wegwezen! Blijkt dat ze er hun vaste stek gemaakt hebben.  De helft van de parking werd door hun woonwagens ingenomen. Dan maar doorrijden naar het Camping-Car Park de Carentan. Deze camperplaats is enkel toegankelijk met pass’Etapes kaart!
In de jachthaven van Carentan vonden we een Amerikaanse landingsboot terug die effectief deelnam aan de landing in Normandië op D-Day. Het is de enige nog resterende in Europa! De LCVP (Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel of Higgins Boat genaamd) PA30-4.
Dag 13
Onder een stralende zon bezoeken we Sainte-Mère-Eglise. Om de invasie te ondersteunen werden er meer dan 15 000 Amerikaanse parachutisten gedropt. Eén Amerikaan bleef met zijn parachute aan de toren van de kerk hangen. Die arme parachutist hangt er nog steeds aan de kerktoren 12. Zoals duizenden toeristen voor ons bezochten we het Airborne museum. Utah Beach stond eveneens op onze afvinklijst. Alhoewel er op dit 5 km lange strand geen sporen van de oorlog meer terug te vinden zijn, is het zeker de moeite om aan te doen.

We overnachten op Camping-Car Park Utah Beach. Opnieuw met de pass’Etapes kaart. In het overzicht van de overnachtingsplaatsen en bij de tips geven we meer uitleg over deze kaart.
Op de camperplaats hadden we het gezelschap van een Guernsey koe en een ezel (weliswaar achter de afsluiting). De koe had niets liever dan dat je ze achter de oren krabde. Ze genoot zo hard dat ze fors tegen de draad leunde, waardoor deze het bijna begaf.
SONY DSC
Day 14
We leave the landing beaches and drive north. Next stop:
Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, a well-known fishing port and marina. It is also a seaside resort thanks to a mild and pleasant climate.

We install ourselves at camping La Gallouette. Be careful with the camper. The streets are very narrow and make manoeuvring difficult.

The island of Tahitou, located near the harbour, is an excellent place to walk, but we preferred to walk on land to the tower of la Hougue. There are two towers in Saint-Vaast: Hougue and Tatihou. As I said, the tower of La Hougue is on land, the other on the island. They stand like two stone guards and were built to defend the harbour. We left through the village towards the tower. The path continues along the sea. Almost at the tower we reached the fortification of Vauban. A defence castle, now privately owned and not open to the public. The path was closed due to work. That way we could not reach the tower and were forced to return. It's best to bring something to drink! During the entire walk we did not come across any bar or drinking establishment, neither in the village, nor at the fortification.
Day 15
Back on the road. Rest day !!! In Barfleur we visit the municipal campsite again. Our place - with a sea view! After installation we will get a breath of fresh air on the seawall. The small fishing port of Barfleur is known for its mussels. Of course they were not to be missed on our lunch menu. They were small but very tasty. In terms of size, they certainly do not match the Zealand mussels that we eat in Flanders. In Normandy they are prepared in a Norman way: with cider, cream, onions and vegetables (marinière).

Day 16
From the town hall of Barfleur we drive by bus to Cherbourg. Was actually a bit disappointing. We imagined more of it. Possibly because it was raining lightly at that time. There are, however, several memorial monuments and sights. For the shoppers: most shops are closed on Mondays (as everywhere in France). In the afternoon we took  the bus back to Barfleur.
Day 17
We continue our ride along the coast. We stop in Barneville-Carteret. Under a bright sun we stroll along the customs officers’ path. A nice walk on top of the cliffs. When we return to the motorhome, we continue to Pirou.
When we arrived…, yes … again a municipal campsite, this time “Le Clos Marin”. From our place we see the sea again. This time we are on the Atlantic Ocean. Before that it was always the Channel! With a clear sky you can see the island of Jersey. We did not see the island!

Day 18
Pirou-Plage, warm but fog all day. The town itself is not large, but here too the campsite is located right on the beach. We walk to the village via the path above the beach. Bought an ice cream and at ease, we returned to the campsite. Where we had a quiet evening. The fog had now lifted.
Day 19
To the southernmost point of our Normandy journey: Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
You can see it from a great distance. Arrived at parking P8 (for motorhomes) we install ourselves. You can spend the night in the parking area, your parking ticket is valid for 24 hours. There are no facilities.
You can walk to the Mont-Saint-Michel, and this via the new dike, but we just took a free shuttle bus to the historic site at the first parking lot. Via narrow, steep streets full of restaurants and souvenir shops and a few hundred stairs you visit the still inhabited and famous monastery. The abbey church is enormous and from the walls you have a very nice view of the surroundings. How did the monks and workers at that time and with those tides get all those boulders and stones from the mainland to that island?
Day 20
The last coastal town we visit is Granville. In Granville we just find a place on the camper stop on the old town centre. After a visit to the remaining bunkers of the “Altlantic Wall” and “La Vieille Ville” (good shoes are necessary, they also have cobblestones there) we go through the new city centre along the casino and the dike to the museum of Christian Dior. A few years ago, his birthplace was completely restored. Now you will find his haute couture collections and those of his successors. You will find a series of sketches of his designs and the Dior perfumes. You can try them out, but also buy them of course. An example: a 50cl bottle of Eau de toilette cost 110 €. The famous rose garden was redesigned based on old plans and photos and is beautiful. The rest of the garden is also worth a visit.
Satisfied, we drank a glass on a terrace, with a view of the grandeur houses "les hotels", second homes of the rich from the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries.
Day 21
Back inland! In Villedieu-les-Poêles we can spend the night in the parking area in the centre. There are no amenities. Officially there are five places. These were taken over by ordinary cars. We were there with twelve motorhomes! The town was (and still is) known for its bell makers (including bells made for the Notre-Dame in Paris and Big Ben in London), its coppersmiths (pots, pans, plates, lamp holders) and lace workers. Along the main street you see narrow passages everywhere that lead to still inhabited courtyard. A visit to the three museums (the bell museum where you can follow the production (with a guide for us alone!), the copper and lace museum where you can follow the life of the copper workers and the lace workers - their wives and daughters - and the furniture museum with beautiful and artful furniture from Normandy)), gives you a glimpse of life in those days. We visited the three museums. Incidentally in Villedieu the first cataract operations were performed. Many women were blinded by the lacework by the poor light of a candle or an oil lamp.
Day 22 - 23
We drive towards Falaise via winding roads. We enjoy the beautiful landscape "La Suisse Normande" in and around the valley of the Orne. We arrive in the small town of Pont-d'Ouilly. Here is a very beautiful idyllic motorhome stopover with all amenities on the river Orne. We found a place right on the water. Ideal for a few days of rest and walking. We flatter ourselves on the water in our comfy chairs. Cosy in the shade, under a weeping willow. The ducks regularly come to see if there is nothing to eat. At the end of the afternoon I (Dirk) play, together with another Fleming, a number of games of “petanque” against a few French. They smiled a little forced. They weren't used to losing to foreigners. The next morning, at breakfast, the ducks sit in the front row. They happily croaked to allow them to eat. On Sunday afternoon we walk to the village. The sun is burning on our shoulders. Suddenly we hear typical French music. We discover a dance party - Les Ginguettes - where everyone can participate. A large terrace right on the water, with the typical orchestra: accordion, guitar and drums. A tradition that is booming in France. Pleasure assured, even if only to watch the finely dressed, usually older, French “bon vivants” while enjoying a glass of wine.
Day 24
In Falaise we park at the birth castle of William of Normandy (or William the Conqueror). During the visit, with the tablet in hand, you get a picture of what the castle (life) used to be like. We also visit the new museum for the civilian victims of the second world war. Popular war music (by Vera Lynn, etc.) can be heard everywhere. Films, photos, letters, clothing and household effects provide an impression of the struggle for survival during and after the war.

For the night we deviate a bit from our route and drive to Soumont-Saint-Quentin. We are welcomed by the friendly farmer. His motorhome stopover (private) is an old mining site. Place enough! There is one other motorhome.
Day 25
Camembert. When entering the village we find the only working farm that still prepares Camembert in an artisan way with raw milk. And it is very tasty! Most camembert come from cooperatives or the factory.
The village of Camembert itself: one street, about 10 houses, a museum and a large sales point. In the beautiful museum you can see how the Camembert was created and eventually became world famous.

A few kilometres further we drive onto the municipal campsite of Vimoutiers. There is no one at the reception on Wednesday! You just choose your place. You can pay the next day if you don't leave early. When you leave before 09.30 you will not  be able to pay. What a pity!

After a fifteen minute walk you will find another Camembert museum in the centre of Vimoutiers. At first sight an old, somewhat dilapidated house. But what an atmosphere and commitment. There is one municipal employee at the checkout and all the rest is done by volunteers who explain with heart and soul how the cheese is made, starting  from the breeding of the cows to sticking a label on the box. They give cooking lessons (of course with camembert). And finally explain how they grew up with the cheese and the special machines, the animals ... The mechanization, the competition and the counterfeits are also discussed. And this for a very low price: 5.5 € for the entrance with explanations by a personal guide and a tasting (4 pieces of cheese with bread and a glass of cider or apple juice). Attention: only guided tours in French.
Day 26
After a good night's sleep we drive home. And believe me, across the border the peace and quiet was over: traffic jams, bad roads, ...
Summary overnight stays
Camping Domaine de Renéville - Fécamp: 18.5 € / night (electricity and tourist tax (TT) included). Very nice campsite. All amenities. All pitches have a sea view. This is due to the terracing. Very steep. People with a mobile disability may experience difficulties.

Camper stop Bassin de l'Est - Honfleur: 240pl/11 €. All service amenities. 120x power. Within walking distance of the centre. Is a busy camper place and is also full in low season!

Motorhome area Deauville: 8pl/free. It is stated that there are all service facilities, but the service station is no longer there (was pulled out by a vehicle and has not been replaced). Only provide 6x power.

Parking de la Gare - Beuvron-en-Auge: 16pl/6 € collector (around 6 pm). Otherwise you can pay in the village in the tabac-presse at 200m. Service station (2 € coin - you get for free when you stay overnight) at 100m - no power supply.

Camping municipal Arromanches: 19.80 € / night (electricity and TT included). Spacious pitches. All facilities on the campsite. Spacious pitches. Quiet. From the back it is only a 5-minute walk to the city and beach.

Camping municipal Des Bords de l'Aure - Bayeux: € 17.80 / night (electricity and TT included). Spacious pitches. All facilities on a modern campsite. The campsite is on a busy road. Bayeux is easy to reach on foot, via a path along a river.

Camping-Car Park de Carentan: 9pl/€ 10.80. Only accessible with pass'Etapes card (can be bought on site at the machine if you don't have one yet - 4 €). Very nice camper pitches. All service amenities included. In the tips you will find more information about the pass'Etapes card. Ideal place as a stopover. Quiet location.

Camping-Car Park Utah Beach - Sainte-Marie-du-Mont: 49pl/10.80€ - Pass’Etapes card. All amenities included. Very quiet location.

Camping La Gallouette -Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue: 21.70 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All facilities on the campsite. Located by the sea. Very friendly owners. Attention! Very narrow streets to reach and exit campsite.

Camping municipal La Blanche Nef - Gatteville Le Phare (Barfleur): 18.20 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All amenities. The campsite is located on the Canal. Peaceful environment. From our place we had a view of the sea. Operator needs often to be traced when you need him.

Camping municipal Le Clos Marin - Pirou: 17.70 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All amenities. The campsite is located immediately behind the dunes, on the Atlantic Ocean.

parking Mont-Saint-Michel: Parking P8 is provided for motorhomes - not known how many places, but more than enough. € 17.80 for 24h. It is allowed to stay overnight. No service facilities.

Official Granville motorhome area: 20pl/9€ - at payment machine. Service facilities: 3 € - no electricity. Located immediately on the street. It is busy in the morning. All parts of the city can be easily reached on foot.

Parc de la Commanderie - Villedieu-les-Poêles: officially there are 5 places for motorhomes, but it is a general parking and cars are also in those places. Enough place for more motorhomes - free. No amenities. Located at the centre. Many police checks in the parking lot, during the evening and night.

Motorhome park Pont-d’Ouilly: 43pl/10€. Very beautiful places on the river Orne. All service facilities - water 2 €

Official motorhome stopover Soumont-Saint-Quentin: 20 pl/10 € collector. On private property of a farm - very quiet. All service amenities included

Camping municipal La Campière - Vimoutiers: 13.50 € / night (electricity and TT included). Very nice, quiet campsite.

E-mail: info@dmcamperreizen.be

Copyright © DMCamperreizen 2018.
All right reserved.
Day 13
Under a radiant sun we visit Sainte-Mère-Eglise. More than 15,000 American paratroopers were dropped to support the invasion. One American hung from the tower of the church with his parachute. That poor parachutist is still hanging from the church tower. Like thousands of tourists before us, we visited the Airborne museum. Utah Beach was also on our checklist. Although no traces of the war can be found on this 5 km long beach, it is certainly worth visiting.

We spend the night at Camping-Car Park Utah Beach. Again with the pass'Etapes card. In the overview of the places to stay and in the tips we give more information about this card.
At the camper stop we had the company of a Guernsey cow and a donkey (albeit behind the fence). The cow loved nothing more than you scratching her ears. She enjoyed it so much that she leaned heavily against the wire, causing it to almost give up.
Day 14
We leave the landing beaches and drive north. Next stop:
Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, a well-known fishing port and marina. It is also a seaside resort thanks to a mild and pleasant climate.

We install ourselves at camping La Gallouette. Be careful with the camper. The streets are very narrow and make manoeuvring difficult.

The island of Tahitou, located near the harbour, is an excellent place to walk, but we preferred to walk on land to the tower of la Hougue. There are two towers in Saint-Vaast: Hougue and Tatihou. As I said, the tower of La Hougue is on land, the other on the island. They stand like two stone guards and were built to defend the harbour. We left through the village towards the tower. The path continues along the sea. Almost at the tower we reached the fortification of Vauban. A defence castle, now privately owned and not open to the public. The path was closed due to work. That way we could not reach the tower and were forced to return. It's best to bring something to drink! During the entire walk we did not come across any bar or drinking establishment, neither in the village, nor at the fortification.
Day 15
Back on the road. Rest day !!! In Barfleur we visit the municipal campsite again. Our place - with a sea view! After installation we will get a breath of fresh air on the seawall. The small fishing port of Barfleur is known for its mussels. Of course they were not to be missed on our lunch menu. They were small but very tasty. In terms of size, they certainly do not match the Zealand mussels that we eat in Flanders. In Normandy they are prepared in a Norman way: with cider, cream, onions and vegetables (marinière).

Day 16
From the town hall of Barfleur we drive by bus to Cherbourg. Was actually a bit disappointing. We imagined more of it. Possibly because it was raining lightly at that time. There are, however, several memorial monuments and sights. For the shoppers: most shops are closed on Mondays (as everywhere in France). In the afternoon we took  the bus back to Barfleur.
Day 17
We continue our ride along the coast. We stop in Barneville-Carteret. Under a bright sun we stroll along the customs officers’ path. A nice walk on top of the cliffs. When we return to the motorhome, we continue to Pirou.
When we arrived…, yes … again a municipal campsite, this time “Le Clos Marin”. From our place we see the sea again. This time we are on the Atlantic Ocean. Before that it was always the Channel! With a clear sky you can see the island of Jersey. We did not see the island!

Day 18
Pirou-Plage, warm but fog all day. The town itself is not large, but here too the campsite is located right on the beach. We walk to the village via the path above the beach. Bought an ice cream and at ease, we returned to the campsite. Where we had a quiet evening. The fog had now lifted.
Day 19
To the southernmost point of our Normandy journey: Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
You can see it from a great distance. Arrived at parking P8 (for motorhomes) we install ourselves. You can spend the night in the parking area, your parking ticket is valid for 24 hours. There are no facilities.
You can walk to the Mont-Saint-Michel, and this via the new dike, but we just took a free shuttle bus to the historic site at the first parking lot. Via narrow, steep streets full of restaurants and souvenir shops and a few hundred stairs you visit the still inhabited and famous monastery. The abbey church is enormous and from the walls you have a very nice view of the surroundings. How did the monks and workers at that time and with those tides get all those boulders and stones from the mainland to that island?
Day 20
The last coastal town we visit is Granville. In Granville we just find a place on the camper stop on the old town centre. After a visit to the remaining bunkers of the “Altlantic Wall” and “La Vieille Ville” (good shoes are necessary, they also have cobblestones there) we go through the new city centre along the casino and the dike to the museum of Christian Dior. A few years ago, his birthplace was completely restored. Now you will find his haute couture collections and those of his successors. You will find a series of sketches of his designs and the Dior perfumes. You can try them out, but also buy them of course. An example: a 50cl bottle of Eau de toilette cost 110 €. The famous rose garden was redesigned based on old plans and photos and is beautiful. The rest of the garden is also worth a visit.
Satisfied, we drank a glass on a terrace, with a view of the grandeur houses "les hotels", second homes of the rich from the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries.
Day 21
Back inland! In Villedieu-les-Poêles we can spend the night in the parking area in the centre. There are no amenities. Officially there are five places. These were taken over by ordinary cars. We were there with twelve motorhomes! The town was (and still is) known for its bell makers (including bells made for the Notre-Dame in Paris and Big Ben in London), its coppersmiths (pots, pans, plates, lamp holders) and lace workers. Along the main street you see narrow passages everywhere that lead to still inhabited courtyard. A visit to the three museums (the bell museum where you can follow the production (with a guide for us alone!), the copper and lace museum where you can follow the life of the copper workers and the lace workers - their wives and daughters - and the furniture museum with beautiful and artful furniture from Normandy)), gives you a glimpse of life in those days. We visited the three museums. Incidentally in Villedieu the first cataract operations were performed. Many women were blinded by the lacework by the poor light of a candle or an oil lamp.
Day 22 - 23
We drive towards Falaise via winding roads. We enjoy the beautiful landscape "La Suisse Normande" in and around the valley of the Orne. We arrive in the small town of Pont-d'Ouilly. Here is a very beautiful idyllic motorhome stopover with all amenities on the river Orne. We found a place right on the water. Ideal for a few days of rest and walking. We flatter ourselves on the water in our comfy chairs. Cosy in the shade, under a weeping willow. The ducks regularly come to see if there is nothing to eat. At the end of the afternoon I (Dirk) play, together with another Fleming, a number of games of “petanque” against a few French. They smiled a little forced. They weren't used to losing to foreigners. The next morning, at breakfast, the ducks sit in the front row. They happily croaked to allow them to eat. On Sunday afternoon we walk to the village. The sun is burning on our shoulders. Suddenly we hear typical French music. We discover a dance party - Les Ginguettes - where everyone can participate. A large terrace right on the water, with the typical orchestra: accordion, guitar and drums. A tradition that is booming in France. Pleasure assured, even if only to watch the finely dressed, usually older, French “bon vivants” while enjoying a glass of wine.
Day 24
In Falaise we park at the birth castle of William of Normandy (or William the Conqueror). During the visit, with the tablet in hand, you get a picture of what the castle (life) used to be like. We also visit the new museum for the civilian victims of the second world war. Popular war music (by Vera Lynn, etc.) can be heard everywhere. Films, photos, letters, clothing and household effects provide an impression of the struggle for survival during and after the war.

For the night we deviate a bit from our route and drive to Soumont-Saint-Quentin. We are welcomed by the friendly farmer. His motorhome stopover (private) is an old mining site. Place enough! There is one other motorhome.
Day 25
Camembert. When entering the village we find the only working farm that still prepares Camembert in an artisan way with raw milk. And it is very tasty! Most camembert come from cooperatives or the factory.
The village of Camembert itself: one street, about 10 houses, a museum and a large sales point. In the beautiful museum you can see how the Camembert was created and eventually became world famous.

A few kilometres further we drive onto the municipal campsite of Vimoutiers. There is no one at the reception on Wednesday! You just choose your place. You can pay the next day if you don't leave early. When you leave before 09.30 you will not  be able to pay. What a pity!

After a fifteen minute walk you will find another Camembert museum in the centre of Vimoutiers. At first sight an old, somewhat dilapidated house. But what an atmosphere and commitment. There is one municipal employee at the checkout and all the rest is done by volunteers who explain with heart and soul how the cheese is made, starting  from the breeding of the cows to sticking a label on the box. They give cooking lessons (of course with camembert). And finally explain how they grew up with the cheese and the special machines, the animals ... The mechanization, the competition and the counterfeits are also discussed. And this for a very low price: 5.5 € for the entrance with explanations by a personal guide and a tasting (4 pieces of cheese with bread and a glass of cider or apple juice). Attention: only guided tours in French.
Day 26
After a good night's sleep we drive home. And believe me, across the border the peace and quiet was over: traffic jams, bad roads, ...
Summary overnight stays
Camping Domaine de Renéville - Fécamp: 18.5 € / night (electricity and tourist tax (TT) included). Very nice campsite. All amenities. All pitches have a sea view. This is due to the terracing. Very steep. People with a mobile disability may experience difficulties.

Camper stop Bassin de l'Est - Honfleur: 240pl/11 €. All service amenities. 120x power. Within walking distance of the centre. Is a busy camper place and is also full in low season!

Motorhome area Deauville: 8pl/free. It is stated that there are all service facilities, but the service station is no longer there (was pulled out by a vehicle and has not been replaced). Only provide 6x power.

Parking de la Gare - Beuvron-en-Auge: 16pl/6 € collector (around 6 pm). Otherwise you can pay in the village in the tabac-presse at 200m. Service station (2 € coin - you get for free when you stay overnight) at 100m - no power supply.

Camping municipal Arromanches: 19.80 € / night (electricity and TT included). Spacious pitches. All facilities on the campsite. Spacious pitches. Quiet. From the back it is only a 5-minute walk to the city and beach.

Camping municipal Des Bords de l'Aure - Bayeux: € 17.80 / night (electricity and TT included). Spacious pitches. All facilities on a modern campsite. The campsite is on a busy road. Bayeux is easy to reach on foot, via a path along a river.

Camping-Car Park de Carentan: 9pl/€ 10.80. Only accessible with pass'Etapes card (can be bought on site at the machine if you don't have one yet - 4 €). Very nice camper pitches. All service amenities included. In the tips you will find more information about the pass'Etapes card. Ideal place as a stopover. Quiet location.

Camping-Car Park Utah Beach - Sainte-Marie-du-Mont: 49pl/10.80€ - Pass’Etapes card. All amenities included. Very quiet location.

Camping La Gallouette -Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue: 21.70 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All facilities on the campsite. Located by the sea. Very friendly owners. Attention! Very narrow streets to reach and exit campsite.

Camping municipal La Blanche Nef - Gatteville Le Phare (Barfleur): 18.20 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All amenities. The campsite is located on the Canal. Peaceful environment. From our place we had a view of the sea. Operator needs often to be traced when you need him.

Camping municipal Le Clos Marin - Pirou: 17.70 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All amenities. The campsite is located immediately behind the dunes, on the Atlantic Ocean.

parking Mont-Saint-Michel: Parking P8 is provided for motorhomes - not known how many places, but more than enough. € 17.80 for 24h. It is allowed to stay overnight. No service facilities.

Official Granville motorhome area: 20pl/9€ - at payment machine. Service facilities: 3 € - no electricity. Located immediately on the street. It is busy in the morning. All parts of the city can be easily reached on foot.

Parc de la Commanderie - Villedieu-les-Poêles: officially there are 5 places for motorhomes, but it is a general parking and cars are also in those places. Enough place for more motorhomes - free. No amenities. Located at the centre. Many police checks in the parking lot, during the evening and night.

Motorhome park Pont-d’Ouilly: 43pl/10€. Very beautiful places on the river Orne. All service facilities - water 2 €

Official motorhome stopover Soumont-Saint-Quentin: 20 pl/10 € collector. On private property of a farm - very quiet. All service amenities included

Camping municipal La Campière - Vimoutiers: 13.50 € / night (electricity and TT included). Very nice, quiet campsite.

E-mail: info@dmcamperreizen.be

Copyright © DMCamperreizen 2018.
All right reserved.
Day 14
We leave the landing beaches and drive north. Next stop:
Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, a well-known fishing port and marina. It is also a seaside resort thanks to a mild and pleasant climate.

We install ourselves at camping La Gallouette. Be careful with the camper. The streets are very narrow and make manoeuvring difficult.

The island of Tahitou, located near the harbour, is an excellent place to walk, but we preferred to walk on land to the tower of la Hougue. There are two towers in Saint-Vaast: Hougue and Tatihou. As I said, the tower of La Hougue is on land, the other on the island. They stand like two stone guards and were built to defend the harbour. We left through the village towards the tower. The path continues along the sea. Almost at the tower we reached the fortification of Vauban. A defence castle, now privately owned and not open to the public. The path was closed due to work. That way we could not reach the tower and were forced to return. It's best to bring something to drink! During the entire walk we did not come across any bar or drinking establishment, neither in the village, nor at the fortification.
Day 15
Back on the road. Rest day !!! In Barfleur we visit the municipal campsite again. Our place - with a sea view! After installation we will get a breath of fresh air on the seawall. The small fishing port of Barfleur is known for its mussels. Of course they were not to be missed on our lunch menu. They were small but very tasty. In terms of size, they certainly do not match the Zealand mussels that we eat in Flanders. In Normandy they are prepared in a Norman way: with cider, cream, onions and vegetables (marinière).

Day 16
From the town hall of Barfleur we drive by bus to Cherbourg. Was actually a bit disappointing. We imagined more of it. Possibly because it was raining lightly at that time. There are, however, several memorial monuments and sights. For the shoppers: most shops are closed on Mondays (as everywhere in France). In the afternoon we took  the bus back to Barfleur.
Day 17
We continue our ride along the coast. We stop in Barneville-Carteret. Under a bright sun we stroll along the customs officers’ path. A nice walk on top of the cliffs. When we return to the motorhome, we continue to Pirou.
When we arrived…, yes … again a municipal campsite, this time “Le Clos Marin”. From our place we see the sea again. This time we are on the Atlantic Ocean. Before that it was always the Channel! With a clear sky you can see the island of Jersey. We did not see the island!

Day 18
Pirou-Plage, warm but fog all day. The town itself is not large, but here too the campsite is located right on the beach. We walk to the village via the path above the beach. Bought an ice cream and at ease, we returned to the campsite. Where we had a quiet evening. The fog had now lifted.
Day 19
To the southernmost point of our Normandy journey: Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
You can see it from a great distance. Arrived at parking P8 (for motorhomes) we install ourselves. You can spend the night in the parking area, your parking ticket is valid for 24 hours. There are no facilities.
You can walk to the Mont-Saint-Michel, and this via the new dike, but we just took a free shuttle bus to the historic site at the first parking lot. Via narrow, steep streets full of restaurants and souvenir shops and a few hundred stairs you visit the still inhabited and famous monastery. The abbey church is enormous and from the walls you have a very nice view of the surroundings. How did the monks and workers at that time and with those tides get all those boulders and stones from the mainland to that island?
Day 20
The last coastal town we visit is Granville. In Granville we just find a place on the camper stop on the old town centre. After a visit to the remaining bunkers of the “Altlantic Wall” and “La Vieille Ville” (good shoes are necessary, they also have cobblestones there) we go through the new city centre along the casino and the dike to the museum of Christian Dior. A few years ago, his birthplace was completely restored. Now you will find his haute couture collections and those of his successors. You will find a series of sketches of his designs and the Dior perfumes. You can try them out, but also buy them of course. An example: a 50cl bottle of Eau de toilette cost 110 €. The famous rose garden was redesigned based on old plans and photos and is beautiful. The rest of the garden is also worth a visit.
Satisfied, we drank a glass on a terrace, with a view of the grandeur houses "les hotels", second homes of the rich from the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries.
Day 21
Back inland! In Villedieu-les-Poêles we can spend the night in the parking area in the centre. There are no amenities. Officially there are five places. These were taken over by ordinary cars. We were there with twelve motorhomes! The town was (and still is) known for its bell makers (including bells made for the Notre-Dame in Paris and Big Ben in London), its coppersmiths (pots, pans, plates, lamp holders) and lace workers. Along the main street you see narrow passages everywhere that lead to still inhabited courtyard. A visit to the three museums (the bell museum where you can follow the production (with a guide for us alone!), the copper and lace museum where you can follow the life of the copper workers and the lace workers - their wives and daughters - and the furniture museum with beautiful and artful furniture from Normandy)), gives you a glimpse of life in those days. We visited the three museums. Incidentally in Villedieu the first cataract operations were performed. Many women were blinded by the lacework by the poor light of a candle or an oil lamp.
Day 22 - 23
We drive towards Falaise via winding roads. We enjoy the beautiful landscape "La Suisse Normande" in and around the valley of the Orne. We arrive in the small town of Pont-d'Ouilly. Here is a very beautiful idyllic motorhome stopover with all amenities on the river Orne. We found a place right on the water. Ideal for a few days of rest and walking. We flatter ourselves on the water in our comfy chairs. Cosy in the shade, under a weeping willow. The ducks regularly come to see if there is nothing to eat. At the end of the afternoon I (Dirk) play, together with another Fleming, a number of games of “petanque” against a few French. They smiled a little forced. They weren't used to losing to foreigners. The next morning, at breakfast, the ducks sit in the front row. They happily croaked to allow them to eat. On Sunday afternoon we walk to the village. The sun is burning on our shoulders. Suddenly we hear typical French music. We discover a dance party - Les Ginguettes - where everyone can participate. A large terrace right on the water, with the typical orchestra: accordion, guitar and drums. A tradition that is booming in France. Pleasure assured, even if only to watch the finely dressed, usually older, French “bon vivants” while enjoying a glass of wine.
Day 24
In Falaise we park at the birth castle of William of Normandy (or William the Conqueror). During the visit, with the tablet in hand, you get a picture of what the castle (life) used to be like. We also visit the new museum for the civilian victims of the second world war. Popular war music (by Vera Lynn, etc.) can be heard everywhere. Films, photos, letters, clothing and household effects provide an impression of the struggle for survival during and after the war.

For the night we deviate a bit from our route and drive to Soumont-Saint-Quentin. We are welcomed by the friendly farmer. His motorhome stopover (private) is an old mining site. Place enough! There is one other motorhome.
Day 25
Camembert. When entering the village we find the only working farm that still prepares Camembert in an artisan way with raw milk. And it is very tasty! Most camembert come from cooperatives or the factory.
The village of Camembert itself: one street, about 10 houses, a museum and a large sales point. In the beautiful museum you can see how the Camembert was created and eventually became world famous.

A few kilometres further we drive onto the municipal campsite of Vimoutiers. There is no one at the reception on Wednesday! You just choose your place. You can pay the next day if you don't leave early. When you leave before 09.30 you will not  be able to pay. What a pity!

After a fifteen minute walk you will find another Camembert museum in the centre of Vimoutiers. At first sight an old, somewhat dilapidated house. But what an atmosphere and commitment. There is one municipal employee at the checkout and all the rest is done by volunteers who explain with heart and soul how the cheese is made, starting  from the breeding of the cows to sticking a label on the box. They give cooking lessons (of course with camembert). And finally explain how they grew up with the cheese and the special machines, the animals ... The mechanization, the competition and the counterfeits are also discussed. And this for a very low price: 5.5 € for the entrance with explanations by a personal guide and a tasting (4 pieces of cheese with bread and a glass of cider or apple juice). Attention: only guided tours in French.
Day 26
After a good night's sleep we drive home. And believe me, across the border the peace and quiet was over: traffic jams, bad roads, ...
Summary overnight stays
Camping Domaine de Renéville - Fécamp: 18.5 € / night (electricity and tourist tax (TT) included). Very nice campsite. All amenities. All pitches have a sea view. This is due to the terracing. Very steep. People with a mobile disability may experience difficulties.

Camper stop Bassin de l'Est - Honfleur: 240pl/11 €. All service amenities. 120x power. Within walking distance of the centre. Is a busy camper place and is also full in low season!

Motorhome area Deauville: 8pl/free. It is stated that there are all service facilities, but the service station is no longer there (was pulled out by a vehicle and has not been replaced). Only provide 6x power.

Parking de la Gare - Beuvron-en-Auge: 16pl/6 € collector (around 6 pm). Otherwise you can pay in the village in the tabac-presse at 200m. Service station (2 € coin - you get for free when you stay overnight) at 100m - no power supply.

Camping municipal Arromanches: 19.80 € / night (electricity and TT included). Spacious pitches. All facilities on the campsite. Spacious pitches. Quiet. From the back it is only a 5-minute walk to the city and beach.

Camping municipal Des Bords de l'Aure - Bayeux: € 17.80 / night (electricity and TT included). Spacious pitches. All facilities on a modern campsite. The campsite is on a busy road. Bayeux is easy to reach on foot, via a path along a river.

Camping-Car Park de Carentan: 9pl/€ 10.80. Only accessible with pass'Etapes card (can be bought on site at the machine if you don't have one yet - 4 €). Very nice camper pitches. All service amenities included. In the tips you will find more information about the pass'Etapes card. Ideal place as a stopover. Quiet location.

Camping-Car Park Utah Beach - Sainte-Marie-du-Mont: 49pl/10.80€ - Pass’Etapes card. All amenities included. Very quiet location.

Camping La Gallouette -Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue: 21.70 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All facilities on the campsite. Located by the sea. Very friendly owners. Attention! Very narrow streets to reach and exit campsite.

Camping municipal La Blanche Nef - Gatteville Le Phare (Barfleur): 18.20 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All amenities. The campsite is located on the Canal. Peaceful environment. From our place we had a view of the sea. Operator needs often to be traced when you need him.

Camping municipal Le Clos Marin - Pirou: 17.70 € / night (electricity and tourist tax included). All amenities. The campsite is located immediately behind the dunes, on the Atlantic Ocean.

parking Mont-Saint-Michel: Parking P8 is provided for motorhomes - not known how many places, but more than enough. € 17.80 for 24h. It is allowed to stay overnight. No service facilities.

Official Granville motorhome area: 20pl/9€ - at payment machine. Service facilities: 3 € - no electricity. Located immediately on the street. It is busy in the morning. All parts of the city can be easily reached on foot.

Parc de la Commanderie - Villedieu-les-Poêles: officially there are 5 places for motorhomes, but it is a general parking and cars are also in those places. Enough place for more motorhomes - free. No amenities. Located at the centre. Many police checks in the parking lot, during the evening and night.

Motorhome park Pont-d’Ouilly: 43pl/10€. Very beautiful places on the river Orne. All service facilities - water 2 €

Official motorhome stopover Soumont-Saint-Quentin: 20 pl/10 € collector. On private property of a farm - very quiet. All service amenities included

Camping municipal La Campière - Vimoutiers: 13.50 € / night (electricity and TT included). Very nice, quiet campsite.
Dag 14
We verlaten de landingsstranden en rijden noordwaarts. Volgende halte:
Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, een gekende vissers- en jachthaven. Het is eveneens een badplaats dankzij een zacht en aangenaam klimaat.

We installeren ons op camping La Gallouette. Opgelet met de camper. De straatjes zijn zeer smal en maakt manoeuvreren moeilijk.

Het eiland Tahitou, gelegen ter hoogte van de haven is een uitstekende plaats om te wandelen maar wij verkozen om aan land een wandeling te maken naar de toren van la Hougue.  Er zijn in Saint-Vaast twee torens: van la Hougue en Tatihou. Zoals ik zei de toren van La Hougue staat op het land, de andere op het eilandje. Ze staan er zoals twee stenen wachters en werden gebouwd ter verdediging van de haven. Via het dorp vertrokken we richting toren. Het pad loopt verder langs de zee. Bijna aan de toren bereikten we de versterking van Vauban. Een verdedigingsslot, nu in privé bezit en niet toegankelijk voor het publiek. Wegens werken was het pad afgesloten. Zo konden we de toren niet bereiken en moesten noodgedwongen terugkeren. Je neemt best iets te drinken mee! Op de gehele wandeling kwamen we geen café of drankgelegenheid tegen, noch in het dorp, noch aan de versterking.
SONY DSC
Dag15
Terug op weg. Rustdag !!! In Barfleur zoeken we opnieuw de gemeentecamping op. Onze plaats - met zicht op zee! Na installatie gaan we lekker uitwaaien op de zeedijk. De kleine vissershaven Barfleur is gekend voor zijn mosselen. Uiteraard mochten die niet ontbreken op onze menu voor de middag. Ze waren klein maar héél lekker. Qua grote evenaren ze zeker de Zeeuwse mosselen, die we in Vlaanderen eten, niet. In Normandië worden ze klaargemaakt op Normandische wijze: met cider, room, met uien en groentjes (marinière). Of moules nature.

Dag 16
Vanaf het gemeentehuis van Barfleur rijden we met de bus naar Cherbourg. Viel eigenlijk een beetje tegen. We hadden er ons meer van voorgesteld. Mogelijks omdat het op dat ogenblik licht regende. Er zijn er wel diverse herdenkingsmonumenten en bezienswaardigheden.  Voor de shoppers: op maandag zijn de meeste winkels dicht (zoals overal in Frankrijk). Na de middag nemen opnieuw de bus terug naar Barfleur.
SONY DSC
Dag 17
We vervolgen onze rit langs de kust. We houden halt in Barneville-Carteret. Onder een stralende zon kuieren we langs het douanierspad. Een leuke wandeling bovenop de klippen. Teruggekomen aan de motorhome rijden we door naar Pirou.
We komen daar toe aan, je raadt het al …, de gemeentecamping Le Clos Marin. Vanop onze plaats zien we opnieuw de zee. Ditmaal zitten we aan de Atlantische oceaan. Voordien was het steeds het Kanaal! Bij een heldere hemel kan je het eiland Jersey zien. Wij zagen het eiland niet!

Dag 18
Pirou-Plage, warm maar een ganse dag mist. Het plaatsje zelf is niet groot maar ook hier ligt de camping pal aan het strand. Via het pad boven het strand wandelen we naar het dorp. Kochten een ijsje en keerden rustig terug naar de camping. Waar we een rustige avond hadden. De mist was intussen opgetrokken.
SONY DSC
Dag 19
Naar het zuidelijkste punt van onze Normandische reis: Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
Vanop grote afstand zie je hem al.  Toegekomen op parking P8 (voor motorhomes) installeren we ons. Je mag overnachten op de parking, je parkeerticket is geldig voor 24 uren. Er zijn wel geen voorzieningen.
Je kan te voet naar de Mont-Saint-Michel, en dit via de nieuwe dijk, doch wij namen aan de eerste parking gewoon een gratis pendelbus naar de historische site.  Via smalle, steile straatjes vol restaurants en souvenirwinkeltjes en enkele honderden trappen bezoek je het nog steeds bewoonde en beroemde klooster.  De abdijkerk is enorm en vanop de omwalling heb je een zeer mooi zicht op de omgeving.  Hoe hebben de monniken en arbeiders in die tijd en met die getijden al die rotsblokken en stenen van het vasteland naar dat eilandje gekregen? 
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
Dag 20
De laatste kustplaats die we aandoen is Granville. In Granville vinden we net nog een plaats op de camperplaats aan de oude stadskern.  Na een bezoek aan de resterende bunkers van de “Altlantic Wall” en “La Vieille Ville” (goede schoenen zijn nodig, ze hebben daar ook kasseien) gaan we via de nieuwe stadskern langs het casino en de dijk naar het museum van Christian Dior.  Enkele jaren geleden werd zijn geboortehuis volledig gerestaureerd.  Nu vind je er zijn haute couture collecties en die van zijn opvolgers. Je vindt er een serie schetsen van zijn ontwerpen en de Dior parfums. Je mag ze uitproberen, kopen ook uiteraard. Ee, voorbeeld: een flesje eau de toilette van 50cl kostte 110€. De beroemde rozentuin werd heraangelegd op basis van oude plannen en foto’s en is prachtig. Ook de rest van de tuin is de moeite waard.
Voldaan dronken we nog een glas op een terrasje, dit met zicht op de grandeur huizen ‘les hotels’, tweede verblijven van de rijken uit de zestiende en achttiende eeuw.
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
Dag 21
Terug naar het binnenland. In Villedieu-les-Poêles kunnen we op de parking in het centrum overnachten. Er zijn geen faciliteiten. Officieel zijn er vijf plaatsen. Deze waren ingenomen door gewone auto’s. We stonden er met twaalf motorhomes! Het stadje was (en is nog steeds) bekend voor zijn klokkenmakers (oa. Voor de Notre-Dame in Parijs en Big Ben in Londen), Zijn koperslagers (potten, pannen, borden, lamphouders) en kantwerkers.  Langs de hoofdstraat zie je overal smalle doorgangen die naar nog steeds bewoonde binnenkoertjes leiden.  Een bezoek aan de drie musea (het klokkenmuseum waar je de productie kan volgen (met een gids voor ons alleen!), het koper- en kantmuseum waar je het leven van de koperslagers en de kantwerksters – hun vrouwen en dochters - kan volgen en het meubelmuseum met schitterende en kunstige meubels uit Normandië, krijg je een kijk op het leven in die tijd. We bezochten de drie musea. Trouwens in Villedieu werden de eerste staaroperaties verricht. Vele vrouwen werden er blind door het kantwerken bij het povere licht van een kaars of een olielamp.
SONY DSC
Dag 22 - 23
Via kronkelende wegen rijden we richting Falaise. We genieten van het fraaie landschap ‘La Suisse Normande’ in en rond het dal van de Orne. We komen toe
In het kleine plaatsje Pont-d’Ouilly. Hier is een zeer mooie idyllische camperplaats met alle voorzieningen aan de rivier de Orne.  We vonden een plaatsje direct aan het water. Ideaal voor een paar dagen rust en wandelen. We vleien ons aan het water in onze zetel. Gezellig in de schaduw, onder een treurwilg. De eenden komen regelmatig kijken of er niets te eten valt. Samen met een andere Vlaming speelt Dirk een aantal spelletjes petanque tegen een paar Fransen. Ze lachten een beetje groen op het einde. Ze waren niet gewoon om te verliezen van buitenlanders. Bij het ontbijt de volgende morgen zitten de eenden op de eerste rij. Ze kwaakten vrolijk toe ze mochten mee-eten. Op zondagmiddag wandelen we naar het dorp. De zon brandt op onze schouders. Plots horen we typisch Franse muziek. Wij ontdekken er een dansfeest - Les Ginguettes – waar iedereen kan aan deelnemen. Een groot terras direct aan het water, met het typische orkest : accordeon, gitaar en drums. Een traditie die een enorme opmars kent in Frankrijk. Plezier verzekerd, al was het maar om onder het genot van een glas wijn de piekfijn uitgedoste, meestal oudere, Franse levensgenieters bezig te zien.
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
Dag 24
In Falaise parkeren we aan het geboortekasteel van Willem van Normandië (of Willem de Veroveraar). Tijdens het bezoek krijg je met de tablet in de hand een beeld hoe het kasteel(leven) vroeger was. We brengen ook een bezoek aan het nieuwe museum voor de burgerslachtoffers van de tweede wereldoorlog. Overal klinkt de populaire oorlogsmuziek (van Vera Lynn, enz.). Aan de hand van filmpjes, foto’s, brieven, kledij en huisraad wordt een beeld gegeven van de strijd om te overleven tijdens en na de oorlog.

Voor de nacht wijken we een beetje af van onze route en rijden naar Soumont-Saint-Quentin. We worden er verwelkomt door de vriendelijke boer. Zijn camperplaats (privé) is een oude mijnsite. Plaats zat. Er staat nog één andere motorhome.
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
Dag 25
Camembert.  Bij het binnenrijden van het dorp vinden we de enige nog werkende boerderij die zelf nog Camembert op artisanale wijze bereidt met rauwe melk. En hij is zeer lekker!  De meeste camemberts komen uit coöperatieven of de fabriek.
Het dorp Camembert zelf: 1 straat, een 10-tal huizen, een museum en een groot verkooppunt.  In het mooie museum zie je hoe de camembert ontstond en uiteindelijk wereldberoemd werd.

Enkele kilometers verder rijden we de gemeentecamping van Vimoutiers op. Er is niemand aan het onthaal op woensdag! Je kiest gewoon je plaats. ’s Anderendaags  kan je dan afrekenen als je niet vroeg vertrekt. Voor 09.30u vertrek je zonder te kunnen betalen.

Na een kwartiertje wandelen vinden nog een camembertmuseum in het  centrum van Vimoutiers.  Op het eerste zicht een oud, wat vervallen huis.  Maar wat een sfeer en inzet.  Er is één gemeentebediende aan de kassa en al de rest gebeurt door vrijwilligers die met hart en ziel uitleggen hoe de kaas gemaakt wordt (vertrekkende van de kweek van de koeien tot het kleven van een etiket op het doosje), die kooklessen geven (uiteraard met camembert), hoe ze zelf opgroeiden met de kaas en de speciale machines, de dieren… Ook de mechanisering, de concurrentie en de vervalsingen komen aan bod.  En voor de prijs moet je het niet laten: 5,5€ voor de toegang met uitleg door een persoonlijke gids en een proeverij (4 stukjes kaas met brood en een glas cider of appelsap).  Opgelet: enkel Franstalige rondleidingen.
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
SONY DSC
Dag 26
Na een goede nachtrust rijden we naar huis.  En geloof mij, over de grens was het gedaan met de rust: file, slechte wegen, …
Overzicht overnachtingen
Camping Domaine de Renéville – Fécamp: 18,5€/nacht (elektriciteit en toeristenbelasting inbegrepen). Zeer mooie camping. Alle voorzieningen. Alle plaatsen hebben zicht op zee. Dit door de terrasvorming. Wel zeer steil. Mensen met mobiele beperking kunnen moeilijkheden ondervinden.

Camperplaats Bassin de l'Est – Honfleur: 240 plaatsen – 11€/nacht betalen aan automaat. Alle servicevoorzieningen. 120x stroom voorzien. Op wandelafstand van centrum. Is druk bezochte camperplaats en staat ook in laagseizoen vol!

Camperplaats Deauville: 8 plaatsen – gratis. Er staat vermeld dat er alle servicevoorzieningen zijn, doch servicestation is er niet meer (was uitgereden door voertuig en niet meer teruggeplaatst). Enkel 6x stroom voorzien.

Officiële camperplaats Parking de la Gare - Beuvron-en-Auge: 16 plaatsen – 6€ collectant (rond 18u). Anders kan je gaan betalen in dorp in de tabac-presse op 200m. Servicestation (munt 2€ - krijg je gratis bij overnachten) op 100m – geen stroomvoorziening.

Camping municipal Arromanches: 19,80€/nacht (elektriciteit en toeristenbelasting inbegrepen). Ruime plaatsen. Alle faciliteiten op camping. Ruime plaatsen. Rustig. Via de achterzijde is het maar 5 minuten wandelen naar stad en strand.

Camping municipal Des Bords de l’Aure – Bayeux: 17,80€/nacht (elektriciteit en toeristenbelasting inbegrepen). Ruime plaatsen. Alle faciliteiten op moderne camping. Ruime plaatsen. Camping ligt wel aan drukke baan. Bayeux is makkelijk te voet te bereiken, via een pad langs riviertje.

Camping-Car Park de Carentan: 9 plaatsen – 10,80€ automaat. Enkel toegankelijk met pass’Etapes kaart (dien je online op te laden en kan je ter plaatse aan automaat kopen indien je er nog geen hebt – 4€). Zeer mooie camperplaatsen. Alle servicevoorzieningen inbegrepen. Bij de tips vind je meer uitleg over de pass’Etapes. Ideale plaats als tussenstop. Rustige ligging.

Camping-Car Park Utah Beach - Sainte-Marie-du-Mont: 49 plaatsen – 10,80€ Pass’Etapes kaart. Alle servicevoorzieningen inbegrepen. Zeer rustige ligging.

Camping La Gallouette -Saint-Vaast-La-Hougue: 21,70€/nacht (elektriciteit en toeristenbelasting inbegrepen). Alle voorzieningen op camping. Aan de zee gelegen. Zeer vriendelijke uitbaters. Opgelet! Zeer smalle straatjes om camping te bereiken en te verlaten.

Camping municipal La Blanche Nef - Gatteville Le Phare (Barfleur): 18,20€/nacht (elektriciteit en toeristenbelasting inbegrepen). Alle voorzieningen. Camping is aan het Kanaal gelegen. Rustige omgeving. Vanop onze plaats hadden we zicht op zee. Uitbater is dikwijls op te sporen wanneer je hem nodig hebt.

Camping municipal Le Clos Marin - Pirou: 17,70€/nacht (elektriciteit en toeristenbelasting inbegrepen). Alle voorzieningen. Camping is onmiddellijk achter de duinen, aan de Atlantische oceaan gelegen.

parking Mont-Saint-Michel: Parking P8 is voorzien voor motorhomes – niet gekend hoeveel plaatsen, doch ruim voldoende. 17,80€ voor 24u. Er mag overnacht worden. Geen servicevoorzieningen.

Officiële camperplaats Granville: 20 plaatsen – 9€ aan betaalautomaat. Servicevoorzieningen: 3€ - geen stroom. Is onmiddellijk aan straat gelegen. In de ochtend is het er druk. Alle stadsdelen makkelijk te voet te bereiken.

Officiële camperplaats Parc de la Commanderie - Villedieu-les-Poêles:
Officieel zijn er 5 plaatsen voor motorhomes voorzien, doch het is een algemene parking en auto’s staan ook op die plaatsen. Wij stonden er zeker met 12 campers  – gratis. Geen servicevoorzieningen. Aan het centrum gelegen. Veel politiecontrole op de parking, tijdens de avond en nacht.

Camperpark Pont-d’Ouilly: 43 plaatsen – 10€ betaalautomaat. Zeer mooie plaatsen aan rivier de Orne. Alle servicevoorzieningen – water 2€
Officiële camperplaats Soumont-Saint-Quentin: 20 plaatsen – 10€ collectant. Op privéterrein van boerderij – zeer rustig. Alle servicevoorzieningen inbegrepen

Camping municipal La Campière - Vimoutiers: 13,50€/nacht (elektriciteit en toeristenbelasting inbegrepen). Zeer mooie, rustige camping.
E-mail: info@dmcamperreizen.be

Copyright © DMCamperreizen 2018.
All right reserved.
E-mail: info@dmcamperreizen.be

Copyright © DMCamperreizen 2018.
All right reserved.