202, 2023

2023 is the year to visit Normandy

Take a Break and Immerse Yourself in the Charm of Normandy

Are you feeling tired and in need of a change of pace? Do you long for a place where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and culture? Then Normandy is the place for you.

Nestled on the north-west coast of France, Normandy is a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a cultural adventure, or simply a break from the daily grind, Normandy offers a wealth of experiences to help you recharge and refresh.

Discover the region’s charming villages and countryside, stroll along the sandy beaches, and take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and lush meadows. Take a step back in time and explore the medieval castles, Gothic cathedrals, and quaint farmhouses that dot the landscape. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of rural life, as you breathe in the fresh air and soak up the beauty of the region’s stunning natural surroundings.

For those seeking a cultural adventure, Normandy is rich in history and heritage. From the famous D-Day landing beaches to the impressive Mont Saint-Michel, the region is steeped in cultural significance. Explore the many museums, monuments, and memorials that commemorate the events of World War II, or delve into the rich artistic heritage of the region and admire the works of famous artists like Monet and Boudin.

In conclusion, Normandy offers a unique and unforgettable experience, perfect for those in need of a cultural break. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, a cultural adventure, or simply a chance to recharge and refresh, Normandy is the perfect destination. So, why wait? Book your trip today and immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of Normandy!

1308, 2022

5 reasons to visit Normandy!

Normandy is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. This region offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that are sure to appeal to tourists of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top things to see in Normandy, France:

  1. The D-Day Beaches: Normandy is famous for its role in World War II and the D-Day landings. Visit the famous beaches of Omaha, Juno, Gold, and Sword to pay your respects to the brave soldiers who fought in the Normandy landings.
  2. The Mont Saint-Michel: This stunning island-mountain located in the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel is a popular tourist destination and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of medieval architecture in France.
  3. Rouen Cathedral: This gothic cathedral is one of the largest and most magnificent in France, and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate sculptures.
  4. The Bayeux Tapestry: This is a world-famous embroidery that depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England. Visitors can admire the intricate details and vivid scenes from this historic event.
  5. Honfleur: This charming town is known for its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and its stunning harbor. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque quays, admire the harbor’s reflections and take a boat trip to see the famous Pont de Normandie.

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Normandy, France. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or the great outdoors, this region has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Normandy to experience the best of France!

1904, 2018

Five great festivals coming to Normandy!

Where else can you head out on holiday and see headliners like Depeche Mode, DJ Snake and The Offspring before exploring the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel? Listen to live jazz from in medieval streets? Rock out on a racecourse after touring the Pays d’Auge, land of cider and cheese? This summer, festival vibes are coming to Normandy, and you can enjoy international artists and regional cuisine with all those famous Norman landmarks just a short drive away. Big names, picture-postcard scenery, surprisingly inexpensive tickets… all just a short hop away from the UK! Here are five great festivals:

1) For the jazz buffs and beginners: Jazz sous les Pommiers, 5-12 May – Coutances A celebration of all things jazz, eight-day family-friendly festival Jazz sous les Pommiers [Jazz under the Apple Trees] takes place every year in the pretty medieval town of Coutances, and attracts 30,000 visitors of all ages, with performances from international stars and passionate amateur musicians spanning seven stages, venues throughout the town and even local cafés and streets. • Line-up: Kamasi Washington, Dave Douglas, Goran Bregovic, the Christian McBride Big Band, Stacey Kent, Robin Mckelle and more • Prices: Festival pass €20 (£18) and includes entry to free concerts | Tickets to paid concerts from €12 (£10.50) • Campsite: 5-minute walk from the festival • Getting there: Portsmouth to Cherbourg with Brittany Ferries: fast 3-hour sailings • Tickets: Certain concerts are ticketed separately to the festival, book directly • Festival website: www.jazzsouslespommiers.com

2) For the emos and alternatives: Beauregard, 6-9 July – Hérouville Saint-Clair (near Caen) Set in the beautiful grounds of the Château de Beauregard, the popular Beauregard Festival’s star-studded line-up, chilled-out vibe and proximity to both Ouistreham port and Caen-Carpiquet airport means that it appeals to both families and friends heading over from the UK. • Line-up: Depeche Mode, The Offspring, Simple Minds, MGMT, Jack White, Macklemore, The Breeders, At The Drive In, Girls in Hawaii, Nothing But Thieves, Parquet Courts and more • Prices: 1-day pass from €49 (£43) | 3-day pass from €164 (£144) • Campsite: 10-minute walk from the festival • Getting there: Portsmouth to Caen/Ouistreham with Brittany Ferries – up to three sailings a day | London Southend to Caen-Carpiquet with FlyBe – up to five flights a week in both directions • Tickets: Book with Festicket • Festival website: www.festivalbeauregard.com

3) For the rockers and ravers: Rock in Évreux, 29 June- 1 July – Évreux Don’t let the name Rock in Evreux fool you: rock is sure to shake Evreux, but a sonic sound clash of electro beats, hip-hop breaks and driving rhythms will also fill the summer air on its racecourse. Easy to get to by train from London via Paris, this festival comes in first place for anyone who doesn’t want to take the car! • Line-up: DJ Snake, Jonas Blue, Tarrus Riley, Darius, Feder, Martin Solveig, Asaf Avidan and more • Prices: 1-day pass from €42 (£36) | 2-day pass from €67 (£58) | 3-day pass from €98 (£85) • Campsite: 2-minute walk from the festival • Getting there: Eurostar from London Saint Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord then train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Évreux (5 hours including connection in Paris) • Tickets: Book with Festicket • Festival website: www.rockinevreux.org

4) For the nature lovers and indie revellers: Hello Birds, 6-8 July – Étretat This free event is held in legendary Étretat, world-renowned for its iconic cliffs overlooking the Channel, and includes live shows and DJ sets on the beach. • Line-up: To be announced • Prices: Free • Campsite: No official camping but there are two campsites nearby • Getting there: Portsmouth to Le Havre with Brittany Ferries – daily ‘no frills’ economy sailings then take a bus (route 24) from Le Havre to Étretat • Festival website: www.hellobirdsfestival.fr

5) For the beach bums: Cabourg Mon Amour, 29 June-1 July – Cabourg This hip, intimate festival caters to the indie crowd and takes place on a beautiful sandy beach in the swish seaside resort of Cabourg, with its picturesque promenade, belle époque architecture and the Grand Hôtel, famous for Marcel Proust. • Line-up: Juliette Armanet, L’Impératrice, You, Man, Muddy Monk, Caballero & Jeanjass • Prices: 3-day pass from €83 (£73) | 1-day passes soon to be released here • Campsite: 25-minute walk from the festival • Getting there: Portsmouth to Caen/Ouistreham with Brittany Ferries – up to three sailings a day | London Southend to Caen-Carpiquet with FlyBe – up to five flights a week in both directions • Tickets: Book with Festicket or directly • Festival website: http://cabourgmonamour.fr

404, 2018

A glimpse of life at Le Gaudin

We’ve not long finished editing our video to show some of the house and grounds at Le Gaudin.

The weather wasn’t great on the day we shot the video but I guess that’s what happens when you shoot in winter!

We’re planning on adding some extra bits over time so will update as and when there’s a new version, but for now we’re excited to be sharing a little look into our way of life!

2003, 2018

Visit Calvados in Normandy in 2018!

We’re looking forward to another year of wonderful guests at Le Gaudin.

Whether you’re travelling through Normandy or using the area as a base to explore this beautiful and historic part of France, we’d love to welcome you at Le Gaudin for an overnight stay or more.

Our evening meals are wonderfully created by chef and owner Clive, so you don’t have to venture too far from your spacious room to dine with some amazing wine.

A 5 minute drive away is the town of Aunay-sur-Odon for local treats and then 20 mins beyond are the WWII sites. Normandy has so much more to offer from history and culture, so whether it’s William the Conqueror and the monks of Mont Saint-Michel to Calvados and cheeses, there’s so many reasons to stay and soak up the lifestyle.

If you’re only with us for the night or maybe staying a little longer, we’ll ensure you’ll leave with wonderful memories of Normandy!

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“The Highlight of our trip. Highly recommend, it is a wonderful, tranquil location… Just wish we could have stayed longer!”
Anita, TripAdvisor review
The huge open living room is a delight, comfortable and full of interest and books. Bedrooms are vast and wonderfully comfortable.
Guest, Alistair Sawdays
A wonderful, tranquil location, a few minutes of the town of Aunay-sur-Odon and within half an hour of the D-Day beaches.
Matt, TripAdvisor review