Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley - Small Group
Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley - Small Group
$4150
Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley - Small Group
8 Days Starting and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, Deauville, Pointe du Hoc, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Arromanches-les-Bains, Bayeux, Mont Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Angers, Saumur, Villandry, Loire Valley, Chartres
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE926ZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
20 - 40
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Please Advise Request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Enjoy the sights and sounds of France during this 8-day guided tour. Travel to Normandy and stand on the 100-foot-tall Pointe du Hoc, overlooking the beaches where soldiers fought in World War II — and walk with a Local Expert through the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach, where Allied Forces landed on D-Day. Drive through the Loire Valley to the glorious fragrant gardens of Château de Villandry, stopping to smell the basil, rosemary and other herbs grown in its gardens. You’ll remember those scents at a celebration dinner featuring a farm-to-table feast and sparkling wine. See Paris’ top attractions, from the elegant avenue of the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe and the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in the heart of the Old Town.
- Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay.
Top Rated Highlights
- Rouen: See the cathedral, the Great Clock, the Old Market square and Place du Vieux-Marché where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
- Honfleur: See this charming fishing town.
- Omaha Beach: Follow the route of the Rangers, visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial.
- Omaha Beach: With a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent.
- Mont-Saint-Michel: Savour your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel. Cross the causeway for a guided tour with your Local Expert through the maze of halls and vaults of the abbey.
- Saint-Malo: Your Local Expert guides you through the streets of the walled city to arrive at the cathedral. Later enjoy the chance to walk along the fortifications and explore the cities nightlife at your leisure.
- Angers: See the imposing château.
- Azay-le-Rideau: Discover the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a true icon of 16th-century innovation and artistry. Built during the reign of Francis I by the king’s financier, Gilles Berthelot, this château blends French traditions with elegant Italian influences. Set on an island in the Indre River, it has become a jewel of early French Renaissance architecture. Explore its rich history, graceful interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens that reflect the castle’s timeless beauty, offering a deeper connection to the cultural heritage of the Loire Valley.
- Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.
Make Travel Matter
Loire Valley: Embark on a birdwatching journey with Local Expert Manon through the gardens of Château de Villandry. Discover the rich birdlife of the estate and the Loire Valley, including Villandry's most unique residents—a colony of great mouse-eared bats. As an advocate for wildlife conservation, Manon shares insights into her work with the Loire Valley’s bird protection society, fostering appreciation for the region’s delicate ecosystem. Wander through Villandry's sustainable gardens, renowned as France’s finest formal gardens. These organically cultivated landscapes—abundant with fragrant herbs, silvery cabbages, and vibrant purple basil—are a living testament to ecological harmony. By preserving biodiversity, Villandry actively supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land, ensuring a thriving environment for generations to come.
Authentic Dining
Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.
Saumur: Learn about local grape varieties and regional wine-making traditions as you sample wines of the Loire Valley.
Loire Valley: This evening, dine at the historic Château de la Bourdaisière, surrounded by elegant French gardens. Enjoy a thoughtfully crafted three-course menu featuring fresh produce from the château’s gardens and local producers. With traditional family cuisine and warm hospitality, this Farm-to-Table dinner offers a true taste of the Loire Valley.
Insight Choice
Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in the heart of the Old Town.
Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris
Meals Included: Dinner
After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before enjoying a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by fresh home-made recipes.
Day 2: Rouen, Honfleur and Deauville
Location: Rouen, Honfleur, Deauville
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville
Meals Included: Breakfast
Follow the River Seine to Rouen, capital of Normandy, to admire its ancient cathedral - a masterpiece of Gothic style and the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the narrow streets beneath the Great Clock to the Old Market Square. Here, a superb modern church memorialises the burning of Joan of Arc on this very spot in 1431. Continue to the charming fishing town of Honfleur and wander along the harbour or stroll through the colourful streets. Close by, visit a family owned apple farm for apple juice, cider and calvados tasting. Later, arrive at your luxurious hotel, located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville.
Day 3: Normandy Beaches and D-Day Landings
Location: Pointe du Hoc, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Arromanches-les-Bains, Bayeux
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Follow the route of the Rangers and visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial at Pointe du Hoc with a Local Expert. Then spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach. Explore Normandy with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay. Alternatively, visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and learn about the epic story of William, Duke of Normandy, becoming the King of England. This evening, you are treated to a delightful dinner, which promises creative cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and delicious wines.
Day 4: Mont Saint-Michel and Saint-Malo
Location: Mont Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Le Nouveau Monde, St Malo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through bocage country and explore the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel with your Local Expert. Situated on an island, the abbey is reached by a bridge across the shining sands. Behind the outer ring of defences huddles the small town – its singular street containing shops, cafes and hotels. Continue along the Emerald Coast to stunning Saint-Malo, situated on the Rance Estuary and one of the most charming places in France. A Local Expert will take you on an exploration of the City of the Corsairs. Walk through the maze of streets of Intra Muros, the walled city, home of Jacques Cartier and other celebrated voyagers. At your leisure, you can wander around the ramparts of the thick city walls, offering fantastic views over the old town and the bay. By night, the town’s medieval maze of winding streets is abuzz with quaint bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional experience to Cancale, known throughout France for its oyster beds, for a delicious meal of fresh seafood and other Breton specialties.
Day 5: Villandry Experience
Location: Angers, Saumur, Villandry
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Château De La Bourdaisière
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head south to follow the valley of the Loire, passing the moated Angers Castle. Cross the Loire to Saumur, where a local vintner will guide you through tastings of the region's delicious wines. Head to Château de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Enjoy a guided birdwatching experience with Local Expert Manon, and explore France’s finest formal gardens, now a hub for sustainability, preserving the estate's biological diversity. Continue to your very own castle hotel and admire its extensive gardens and potager.
Day 6: Scenic Drive Along the Loire Valley
Location: Loire Valley
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Château De La Bourdaisière
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey to the fairytale Château d'Azay-le-Rideau where your Local Expert will show you the château's decor and return to your turreted château for relaxation. This evening, your dinner starts with a glass of local sparkling wine and continues with excellent service and delicious Farm-to-Table dishes in the most wholesome setting, ensuring the memory of your meal will linger long after you've returned home.
Day 7: La Beauce and Chartres to Paris, City of Light
Location: Chartres, Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travelling through the vast wheat fields of the the Beauce region, Chartres Cathedral, nicknamed the 'Acropolis of France' by August Rodin, looms large on the horizon. Enjoy a guided tour of this architectural delight. From here, return to the French capital where your Travel Director introduces you to the fabulous sights of Paris, including the vast Place de la Concorde, where the guillotine once stood. Travel up the Champs Élysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. After dark, the City of Light really lives up to its name, when the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour, don't miss the chance to experience a world-famous cabaret show.
Day 8: Au Revoir Paris
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey through the French countryside as you transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Bayeux Tapestry Museum Visit
Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in the heart of the Old Town of Arromanches-les-Bains.
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D-Day Museum Visit
Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay.
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Rouen Highlights
See the cathedral, the Great Clock, the Old Market square, and Place du Vieux-Marché where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
What's Not Included
International Travel
International travel to and from the destination is not included.
Dining Summary
Additional Included Highlights
Well-being
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom, onboard washroom, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a seamless journey through France.Accommodation
Experience luxury and comfort at Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf in Deauville, Le Nouveau Monde in St Malo, and Château De La Bourdaisière, offering elegant rooms and extensive gardens.Insight Experiences
Summary
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry in the Loire Valley, where you can learn about organic gardening practices aimed at preserving biodiversity. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to taste local wines in Saumur and explore the historic Bayeux Tapestry Museum or the D-Day Museum in Arromanches.
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
You will enjoy authentic dining experiences such as a Welcome Dinner in Paris with cuisine inspired by fresh home-made recipes, a delightful dinner with creative cuisine and seasonal ingredients in Normandy, and a Farm-to-Table dinner with local sparkling wine in the Loire Valley.
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Are there any special accommodations during the tour?
Yes, you will stay in a castle hotel in the Loire Valley, Château De La Bourdaisière, which features extensive gardens and a potager.
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as the cathedral in Rouen, the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent near Omaha Beach, the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, and the Chartres Cathedral.
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Is there a focus on sustainability during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Château de Villandry, where you will explore sustainable gardens that aim to preserve the estate's biological diversity and advance UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Saturday - Saturday
Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
