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Normandy Attractions  For family holidays Normandy is an excellent choice with attractions to keep everyone happy, from outdoor activity centres to zoos, museums, a small theme park and miles of sandy beaches. For those interested in history the region is full of museums dedicated to Roman History, the Norman Conquest and the Second World War - especially D Day.  And in the heart of Normandy you will find wonderful rolling countryside, gardens and châteaux. Worthy of a trip are Le Mont St-Michel just over the departmental border in Brittany, the Palace de Versailles west of Paris and even Paris itself.

La Petite Suisse NormandeLittle Switzerland

Location: Follow the D562, 25 kms south of Caen to Thury Harcourt. By following the Orne River valley southwards you are in the area known as ‘La Suisse Normande’.
Description: The name ‘Suisse Normande’ conjures up visions of dramatic alpine scenery. The reality is more of a pleasant river valley with some crags and rolling hills.
Our recommendations: A drive along ‘La Route des Crêtes’ to the east of the river gives rewarding views, good picnic spots and the opportunity to watch the multitude of paragliders. (The route to the top would be a hard climb for ramblers or cyclists). Walks are possible along the cliff paths but these should be negotiated with extreme care. Walking, cycling and even canoeing from Pont d’Ouilly are other options. Visit the local tourist offices where there are many excellent guides available offering short walks suitable for families.
For the children: While it is great fun watching the colourful paragliders, be sure to include a child friendly activity as well such as the Musée du Chemin de Fer.

Our favourite attractions in Normandy:

   - Bayeux Tapestry
   - Cité de la Mer
   - Festyland
   - Le Mont St-Michel
   - Le Val des Cîmes
   - Little Switzerland
   - Musée du Chemin de Fer
   - Souterroscope des Ardoisières
   - Viaduc de la Souleuvre
   - Vieux-la-Romaine
   - Village Enchanté
   - Zoo de Champrépus

External websites offering information on Normandy:

    
- Normandy Tourist Board site
     - Discover Normandy
     - Normandy France.Net
     - Château de Versailles - well worth a day trip!
Chosen by our children:

     - Top Attractions in Normandy
     - Top Ten Holiday destinations in France