24 Trips to Explore in 2024See the List
Duration
5 days
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 4 nights in 3 star hotels and B&Bs
Meals
  • 4 Breakfasts

Price

$990USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: NCW

Trip highlights


  • Visiting the historic sites of World War II's Battle of Normandy
  • Discovering the Normandy countryside on foot
  • Exploring Bayeux, famous for its tapestry

Normandy's D-Day landing beaches saw the largest seaborne invasion in history during the WWII Battle of Normandy. Starting from the seaside town of Arromanches where an artificial harbour was established, key to the success of the campaign, this walking holiday will take you back in time to appreciate the roles of both the Allied and German forces during the battle. Heading along the cliffs, the walking route takes in the historic sites of World War II, including the German Battery of Longues-sur-Mer and Omaha Beach where the Allied Invasion took place, and the American War Cemetery at Colleville-sur Mer. Continuing inland through quintessential rolling Normandy countryside you reach Bayeux, with its impressive cathedral, historic buildings and the famous tapestry of William the Conqueror - a fitting end point to a short but enriching journey on foot in Normandy.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Arrive Arromanches and make your own way to your hotel. It was here that the Allies set up a harbour using sunken barges to supply the D-Day troops. Today the barges are still visible on the beach and in the sea. Take the time to visit the excellent and informative D-day museum.

Meals:  Nil

This morning you start walking from your hotel along the cliff above the Gold Beach. Nearby is the main German Battery of Longues-sur-Mer, which you reach as you walk past Mulberry harbour. After visiting this strategic position with its tanks and bunkers, continue on to the fishing village of Port en Bessin and your hotel on the harbour for 2 nights. Distance walked: 12km/7.5mi

Meals:  B

Today's loop walk takes you further west, to Colleville-sur-mer and the impressive American War cemetery. From here you can walk down to Omaha Beach at Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, then follow the trail back through farming land. Or if you don't feel like walking back, you can order a taxi (approx EUR30, payable locally). Distance walked: 12 or 21km/7.5 or 13mi

Meals:  B

Today's walk takes you through the heart of the Bessin area, with its orchards, green pastures and great granite mansions and manors. Arriving at the British War cemetery of Bayeux and the Commonwealth memorial, the last stage takes you through the beautiful centre of Bayeux with its impressive cathedral, historic houses and the famous tapestry depicting the Battle of Hastings. Overnight Bayeux where the quality of local cuisine is superb. A local favourite is the galette, a savoury crepe made with buckwheat and filled with a range of different ingredients, or the tubs of mussels which are full of flavour. Distance walked: 17km/10.5mi

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast. Our usual hotel is walking distance to the train station, or ask for our rates if you'd like to spend more time in Bayeux.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 4 breakfasts - breakfast is continental style with bread, croissant, cheese, spreads, tea, coffee and juice. Some hotels will have a wider selection of food items.
  • 4 nights in 3 star hotels and B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Information pack per room booked, including maps & route notes
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Local taxes
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Arromanches and from Bayeux
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • 4-dinner option is available on request - supplement applies
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed included
  • Transfers not listed included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess Luggage
  • Items of a personal nature

Grading

introductory to moderate  

This trip involves 3 days walking between 12 and 21km per day over undulating terrain. The route travels along quiet trails through the countryside. At times you will need to walk on small roads. We recommend that you undertake some pre trip training to ensure you get the most out of your walk. During the walk you need only carry your camera and water bottle etc. Your luggage is transported for you between hotels.


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Mar to 31 Oct

Notes

H
High Season
Note:
High season is from 1 Jun to 31 Aug - supplement applies.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$990USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single SupplementUSD$330
  • Solo Traveller SupplementUSD$420
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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