We left Paris behind and headed to Normandy, stopping first at Claude Monet's former home in Giverny. The gardens, bursting with color, were the inspiration for many of his masterpieces. Next, we visited the Bayeux Tapestry, a remarkable piece of history depicting the Norman invasion of England. The day ended with a delicious dinner in Caen. We stayed at Mercure Caen Centre Port de Plaisance Hotel Caen, France.

Giverny, France

The name had always held a certain magic, whispered in art history classes and dreamed about in hushed tones. And now, here we were, standing at the gates of Monet’s world.

The moment we stepped into the garden, it was as if time stood still. A riot of color exploded before our eyes – greens so vibrant they seemed to glow, blues as deep as the summer sky reflected in the water lilies. It was as if the paintings had sprung to life. Every corner was a masterpiece, from the Japanese bridge arching gracefully over the pond to the riotous clematis climbing the garden walls.

The house itself was charming, a simpler, more intimate space than imagined. The personal touches, like Monet’s art collection and the cozy living room, made it feel like a home, not just a tourist attraction.

As we wandered, we couldn’t shake the feeling of being in a dream. It was as if Monet's spirit still lingered in the air, capturing the essence of every fleeting moment in color. Giverny was more than just a garden; it was a portal into a world of pure, unadulterated beauty.

Bayeux 

The town, cloaked in a gentle, Norman charm, was a delightful surprise. Its low-rise buildings, adorned with pastel hues, created a quaint, almost storybook atmosphere.

Our first stop, of course, was the Bayeux Tapestry. To see those vibrant, thousand-year-old threads woven into such a detailed narrative was nothing short of breathtaking. It felt like peering into a living history book. The craftsmanship was astonishing, and the story it told, both epic and intimate.

Beyond the tapestry, Bayeux revealed its layers of history. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Bayeux, also known as Bayeux Cathedral, stood as a towering testament to centuries of faith. This magnificent Roman Catholic church, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, invited exploration. Its tranquil interior offered a peaceful respite from the bustling town.

Wandering through the cathedral's hallowed halls, I couldn't help but feel a connection to the past. The town's narrow, winding streets were a joy to explore, leading us to charming boutiques, cozy cafes, and unexpected corners filled with history.

Bayeux had captured our hearts with its gentle pace, rich history, and undeniable charm. It was a place where time seemed to slow down, allowing for a deeper appreciation of life's simple pleasures.

City of Caen

Walking through Caen, it's hard to imagine that this charming town was almost completely destroyed during World War II. In 1944, the Battle of Caen left much of the town in ruins as Allied forces and German troops clashed during the Normandy campaign. The devastation was immense—historic buildings, homes, and entire neighborhoods were reduced to rubble. Yet, as we explored the town, we were struck by the resilience that echoes through its restored streets.

The town’s reconstruction is a testament to its spirit. Caen rose from the ashes, blending the old with the new. The beautifully restored Abbaye aux Hommes and the Château de Caen stand as reminders of its medieval heritage, while modern architecture symbolizes its rebirth. The scars of war are still visible in places, but they add to the depth of Caen’s story, making it a living monument to survival and renewal.

Hotel

The Mercure Caen Centre Port de Plaisance Hotel in Caen, France, offers a comfortable and welcoming stay with a modern touch. Located near the city center and the marina, it provides easy access to historical sites like the Bayeux Tapestry and the Normandy landing beaches. The rooms are clean and well-appointed, with friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere. The breakfast buffet offers a good variety of options, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to stay while exploring the region.

Gate 1 provided dinner at the hotel tonight.