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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.
France
Arromanches
Bayeux
21kg of CO2-e PP per day
(82kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Arromanches
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
Day 2
Coastal walk via the German Battery at Longues-sur-Mer to Port en Bessin (3-4hrs)
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: 13km/8mi
Meals: B
Day 3
Loop walk to the impressive American War Cemetery and Omaha Beach (3-6hrs)
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 EUR30-35, payable locally). Distance walked: 12 or 22km/7.5 or 14mi
Day 4
Walk to Bayeux via the Bessin area (5.5hrs)
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 (the Bayeux Tapestry museum is temporarily closed for renovations until October 2027). 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
Day 5
Trip concludes
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.
What's included
What's not included
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.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Personal Experience
We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.
Great Value & Quality
Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.
Self-Guided Specialists
We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.
self guided walk
hotel
6Days
Introductory to Moderate
7Days
Moderate
hotel, guesthouse
8Days