Getaway along the coast

Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Caen has preserved its remarkable heritage with its medieval castle, the Abbaye aux Hommes and the Abbaye aux Dames. Scarred by the Second World War but rebuilt with vigour, the city now offers a green and welcoming setting, perfect for a family holiday. Children particularly enjoy visiting the castle, exploring the Memorial, and discovering the lively parks and quays in the city centre.

Distance to cover: 36km ( 23 miles)

Starting from Caen, the route first takes you along the Orne Canal, a flat and pleasant course where you can enjoy the calm of the water and the passing boats. Along the way, the silhouette of the Pegasus Memorial recalls the early hours of the D-Day landings, a moving and unmissable site. As you approach the coast, the air becomes saltier and the horizon opens up: you then reach Courseulles sur Mer, a lively fishing port and key location in the Juno Beach sector. The seaside, with its wide beaches, historical remains and summer atmosphere, offers a peaceful arrival. A gentle, easy day rich in discoveries, between river landscapes, nature and memorial sites.

Distance to cover: 35km ( 22 miles)

From Courseulles sur Mer, the day begins along the coastline, with views of the vast beaches and low cliffs that saw the Allies land in 1944. Very quickly, the route leads to Arromanches-les-Bains, famous for the remains of the Mulberry artificial harbour, a symbol of the ingenuity of the D-Day landings. The site offers impressive views of the sea and the beach, as well as a fascinating museum recounting these historic events. You then continue westward to reach Port-en-Bessin, a picturesque little port where colourful trawlers rub shoulders with pleasure boats. With its bustling quays, fish markets and stone houses, the place perfectly embodies the maritime charm of Normandy, while preserving the memory of a strong and moving past.

Distance to cover: 17.5 km (10,8 miles)

This final stage connects the coastline to the Normandy countryside, following a pleasant route through the heart of Bessin! An ideal stage to conclude the cycle tour. After leaving Port en Bessin and its maritime atmosphere, the route crosses green landscapes dotted with typical villages.

You finally arrive in Bayeux, one of the first French towns to be liberated by the Allies on 7 June 1944. Having escaped bombing, it is one of the few towns in the area to have preserved its medieval monuments.

So take some time to visit:
The Tapestry recounting the epic story of William the Conqueror in England in 1066
The cathedral built in honour of William
The old buildings in the historic centre
(The Bayeux Tapestry Museum is currently closed for renovation for two years. It is scheduled to reopen in October 2027).

For foodies, the town is full of excellent restaurants!

End of stay in Bayeux after breakfast or additional night to enjoy the town.