France is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Not only can you enjoy the bustling city life of Paris, along with the beautiful landscapes of Provence, but you can also escape to the coastal region of Normandy for a relaxing adventure.
Full of small towns, Normandy sits on the edge of the English Channel and offers visitors plenty to see and do, according to the New York Times. Spend a week exploring the seaside villages, by car or local bus, and wind your way along the 25 miles of rocky, wind-swept cost to visit Houlgate, Villiers-Sur-Mer, Deauville and Tourville.
Wander through the streets that inspired Monet and enjoy some of the seafood-heavy cuisine that is prevalent in the area. Only two hours from Paris by train or car, a visit to the Cote Fleurie is a perfect addition to any trip.
Visit the small town of Deauville, which is celebrating its 150 birthday this year, according to the news source. It was once a small fishing village that then became a popular destination for the Duke of Morny - Emperor Napoleon III’s half brother - who arrived in the city in 1860. In less than a decade there was a railway station, a casino and many seaside mansions. Coco Chanel even opened her first shop in Deauville.
The best way to have the most authentic experience in the region is to travel with a small group.
Enjoy the quiet coastal towns of Normandy
Posted on Thursday, Aug. 12th, 2010
