D-Day walk

On 6 June 1944, the beaches of Normandy were the scene of one of the fiercest battles in history. The landing of the American army, supported by a detachment of Allied soldiers, under a terrible deluge of fire and blood, led to the liberation of France from Nazi rule. This historic walking tour will allow you to follow in the footsteps of the battle and see the remnants of the war for yourself.

In the thick of battle

Starting point for your walk in Normandy: Arromanches, Gold Beach.

A visit to the D-Day Museum sets the tone and gives the walk a sense of remembrance and discovery. An artificial harbour was built here to serve as a supply ramp for Allied troops. You can admire the remains of the harbour, visible at low tide, which illustrate the logistical and engineering challenges involved in the D-Day landings.

This hike will take you to the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer. Overlooking the sea, it is an impressive reminder of the Atlantic Wall, with its original guns still in place. You will continue westwards until you reach the fishing port of Port-en-Bessin, then Colleville-sur-Mer. The town owes its reputation to Omaha Beach and the American cemetery where nearly 10,000 GIs who died in Normandy are buried.

Between Port-en-Bessin and Bayeux, the route crosses a bocage countryside dotted with beautiful stone farms and charming hamlets typical of the Bessin region.

You will end your hike in Bayeux. On the itinerary: the British cemetery, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission memorial and, finally, the famous 70-metre-long tapestry, considered to be the first comic strip in history.
(The Bayeux Tapestry Museum is currently closed for renovation for two years. It is scheduled to reopen in October 2027).

Contemplative escape

The theme of this walking tour is remembrance, honouring the soldiers who died for our freedom. However, from Arromanches to Bayeux, this walking tour in Normandy is anything but sombre. The call of the open sea combined with the invigorating sea air, far from urban pollution, is conducive to contemplative relaxation and escape.

Not to mention the gourmet stops: with seafood, distinctive cheeses and apple-based delicacies, Normandy’s gastronomy celebrates the products of an exceptional terroir.