As a travel agent, creating dream trips is my passion, but this time it was personal. My husband, two couples who are dear friends, and I set out on a bucket list adventure to explore the history and beauty of France through the lens of WWII. From iconic Parisian landmarks to the solemn beaches of Normandy, this was a journey filled with unforgettable moments, both emotional and awe-inspiring.
Paris: A Perfect Start
Our adventure began in the heart of Paris, a city that never fails to amaze, no matter how many times I visit. For two days, we soaked in the history, art, and culture. We paid our respects at Napoleon’s Tomb, admired the masterpieces at the Rodin Museum and the Louvre, and marveled at the Eiffel Tower, especially when it glittered at night. This city of light was the perfect backdrop for the start of our journey.
Versailles to Calais
After exploring Paris, we hopped on a train to Versailles, where we picked up our spacious 9-passenger rental van. With our group comfortably settled, we headed to Calais for the night. The drive was scenic, and Calais provided a peaceful stop before diving into our WWII tour.
Dunkirk: History Comes to Life
Dunkirk was our first WWII stop, and it was a moving experience. We had lunch on board the Princess Elizabeth, a boat that played a crucial role in the rescue of Allied troops from the Dunkirk beaches during Operation Dynamo. The boat also starred in the film Dunkirk, making the experience even more surreal. Sitting on this historic vessel, eating lunch while reflecting on its past, gave us a deep sense of connection to the events that unfolded here.
After lunch, the ladies climbed the church tower for a panoramic view of Dunkirk, while the guys took a break, chatting on a park bench below. Walking the same grounds where soldiers once fought for their lives was an unforgettable way to start this portion of our trip.
Honfleur: A Quaint Coastal Stop
Next, we made our way to Honfleur, a picturesque town on the Normandy coast. Its charming streets and harbor were perfect for some leisurely shopping and a delicious lunch. The town’s historic feel made it a great contrast to the weight of Dunkirk’s wartime memories.
Caen: An Overnight in History
Crossing the Le Havre Bridge, we drove to Caen for an overnight stay. This city holds a deep connection to WWII, but it also has so much more to offer. One evening after dinner, we climbed the hill to explore the remains of William the Conqueror’s castle, a fitting reminder of the region’s rich history beyond the world wars.
Normandy Beaches: A Day of Reflection
In Bayeux, we met our private guide, Adrienne, who led us on a powerful journey through WWII history. Our day was filled with emotional stops at Sainte-Mère-Église, Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and Omaha Beach. The highlight was the visit to the American Cemetery, where we paid our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Adrienne's knowledge and storytelling brought the history to life, making it a day we will never forget.
Afterward, we had some free time in Bayeux to visit the famous Bayeux Tapestry, a stunning piece of medieval art that tells the story of William the Conqueror’s invasion of England. The tapestry was a wonderful cultural addition to our history-heavy day.
The Scenic Side of Normandy
The following day, we took a break from the war history and embraced the beauty of Normandy by driving the Cider Trail. We stopped at a private farm for a delightful calvados tasting, savoring the flavors of this region-famous apple brandy.
Mont Saint Michel: A Dream Realized
Our journey then took us to one of the most breathtaking sites in France: Mont Saint Michel. Along the way, we made a stop at Villedieu-les-Poêles, where we toured a copper factory. Watching artisans create everything from church bells to bathtubs was fascinating, a true insight into Normandy’s craftsmanship.
Finally, we reached Mont Saint Michel, and it was everything we imagined—stunning, serene, and full of history. The island’s abbey rising above the tidal waters was the perfect place to pause and take in the beauty of France.
Giverny: Gardens and Good Company
Our final scenic stop was in Giverny, home to Monet’s famous gardens. While the ladies strolled through the beautiful flowers and water lilies, the men relaxed with a cold beer at the local café. It was the perfect way to end the leisurely part of our trip before returning to Versailles.
Versailles and Farewell
Back in Versailles, we toured the opulent palace and its magnificent gardens. Walking through the Hall of Mirrors and the immaculately landscaped grounds reminded us of France’s royal past and its role in shaping European history.
From Versailles, it was a short drive to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, where we spent our final night in a hotel near the terminal before catching our midmorning flight home.
A Journey to Remember
This trip was a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation. From the somber WWII sites to the charming villages and the grandeur of Paris and Versailles, each day was a new adventure shared with close friends. As a travel agent, it was a joy to plan and experience this journey firsthand, knowing that it truly checked off all the items on our bucket list.
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