Gourmet trip to Normandy: insider tips, sights & delicacies

Romantic round trip from Paris to Normandy

In 2022 we spent our honeymoon in Normandy and mainly visited the famous highlights such as Étretat and Mont Saint Michel. This time I was able to explore the hidden but no less fascinating "pearls of Normandy" with Logis Hotels. One or two surprises also awaited me on this trip. Since there is so much to discover in Normandy, we are starting a new series of articles on the most beautiful sights, many insider tips and delicacies of Normandy. Bonne lecture!

From Paris to Normandy

The most exciting stories begin in Paris - and so does ours. Our journey to Normandy began in Paris. Just two hours from the city of love, Normandy unfolds a unique, romantic landscape. Here, rugged coastlines and endless meadows merge with picturesque villages and historic towns. It is a region full of contrasts that not only fascinates with its impressive history, but also seduces with culinary treasures such as Camembert, Calvados and, of course, freshly caught oysters. From the landing beaches of the Second World War to the places that have inspired numerous artists - Normandy tells stories that sometimes astonish, sometimes deeply touch, but always arouse curiosity. The rugged cliffs of Étretat, the peaceful seclusion of the Mont-Saint-Michel monastery or the charming alleys of Honfleur - each place has its own magic.

Logis Hotels – Culinary delights and French hospitality

If there is one hotel chain in France that stands for authentic experiences and excellent cuisine, it is Logis Hotels. With a strong gastronomic focus, this group has also distinguished itself internationally since its foundation in 1947. What once began in the French Auvergne as an association of hoteliers and tourism associations is now a network of around 2.400 hotels and restaurants - mostly family-run establishments, which are represented primarily in France, Canada, French Guiana and now also in many other European cities such as Germany, Andorra, Belgium, Spain, Italy and Luxembourg.

But what makes Logis hotels so special? It's obvious: the cuisine! It's not just about a bed for the night, but about culinary journeys for the senses. Almost every Logis hotel has a restaurant that impresses with regional specialties, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking. It's no coincidence that connoisseurs often like to spend more time at the dining table than in their hotel room.

Fun Fact: The classification of Logis hotels is based on 1, 2 or 3 chimneys

A walk in Rouen

A special city highlight in the Logis portfolio is undoubtedly Rouen, the enchanting capital of Normandy. Historically and culinary as fascinating as it is picturesque, the city is a true treasure trove for explorers. Its cityscape is characterized by over 2.000 well-preserved half-timbered houses. In 1431, Joan of Arc was publicly burned at the stake on Rouen's market square - an event whose reverberations still shape the city centuries later. In her honor, the Église Sainte-Jeanne d'Arc stands here, its curved roofs symbolically reminiscent of the flames of the pyre. Inside, there are fascinating artistic stained glass windows from the Renaissance that once adorned the Saint-Vincent church, which was destroyed in 1944.

city ​​of a hundred church towers

Rouen is often referred to as the "city of a hundred spires", a nickname given to the city by the French writer Victor Hugo. In his work, he raved about the extraordinary number of churches and cathedrals that shape the city's skyline. A stroll through the streets of Rouen takes us to the famous Gros-Horloge clock tower, a symbol of the city. Just a short walk away, the Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedral rises with its majestic façade, once immortalized by none other than Monet in his famous series of paintings.

The oldest restaurant in France

The restaurant La Couronne is considered to be the oldest inn in France. Originally founded as an inn in 1341, it has developed over the centuries into one of the most famous restaurants in the country. According to legend, the later owner Raoul Baudry even watched the execution of Joan of Arc from his window. La Couronne became internationally famous thanks to the American chef Julia Child, who tried her first French dish here in 1948. This moment is said to have impressed her so much that it was the trigger for her later career as a great ambassador for French cuisine.

Accommodation Tip in Rouen

The Logis Hotel Relais de Montigny is a cozy, family-run hotel in the heart of the Roumare forest, just a few minutes from the historic center. Nestled in the idyllic natural park of the Normandy Seine loops, it offers the ideal place to relax after a day of exploring. The highlight? A delicious dinner prepared by the talented chef Bénédicte Coignard, who, together with her team, masterfully conjures up regional ingredients on the plate.
Whether a romantic evening in a restaurant, a walk through the enchanting Monumental Forest or a trip into Rouen's eventful history - there is a lot to discover and experience in the region.

On the Trail of Light in Le Havre

Le Havre - a city that offers much more than its reputation as a concrete metropolis initially suggests. The largest city in Normandy surprises with exciting contrasts between modern urban development, historical flair and cultural significance. After the severe destruction in the Second World War, Le Havre was transformed into a modern metropolis under the direction of the visionary architect Auguste Perret. The city center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005.

Anyone who goes on a discovery tour in Le Havre will be rewarded with some surprising sights. A particular highlight is the Église Saint-Joseph, which stands out from the cityscape like a futuristic lighthouse. The 107-meter-high lantern tower, lined with 12.768 colorful glass windows, is a unique architectural work of art. Almost threatening from the outside, there is a surprise hidden inside this striking construction. The spacious room shines in a bright play of colors. Accompanied by Gregorian chants and characterized by the dizzying height, the church seems almost surreal - like a modern interpretation of Noah's Ark, which at the same time reminds one of a spaceship or a quantum computer. I rarely get goosebumps in a place, but in the Église Saint-Joseph I couldn't stop being amazed.

Delicatessen tasting at the Hotel La Petite Rade

Art lovers will especially enjoy Le Havre. The city is inextricably linked to Claude Monet, who painted his famous work Impression, soleil levant in the harbor in 1872, giving an entire art movement its name. The light that fascinated him then has lost none of its magic to this day. We were able to enjoy this special coastal light from the very front row - in the Logis Hôtel La Petit Rade, just a few steps from the sea. The hotel combines a relaxed surfer atmosphere with an enjoyable journey through the diversity of Norman cuisine. The small snacks, which I lovingly called "Normandy Tapas", in front of the sea backdrop not only looked good enough to eat, but also tasted fantastic. With the delicious, locally produced Cidre Simon it was then “Santé!”

Around the World in a Day in the Hanging Gardens of Le Havre

Another highlight in Le Havre are the Hanging Gardens on the site of a former military fortress from the 19th century. Created as a tribute to the legendary hanging gardens of Semiramis, the greenhouses invite you on a botanical journey around the world. The botanical garden is divided into various thematic areas that present plants from all over the world - from Mediterranean to exotic plants. Outside, there is an impressive panoramic view of the city and the harbor.

Info: Admission to “Les Jardins Suspendus” is free

Honfleur: A port full of history, art and sea breeze

Honfleur is a magical fishing town that embodies the charm of Normandy like no other place. This idyllic coastal town in the Calvados department enchants with its picturesque half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and the remains of the historic fortifications from the 17th century, the so-called Lieutenance. The Sainte Catherine church is particularly impressive: a sailor's church from the 15th century, made entirely of wood.

Numerous small art galleries line the alleys and offer a fascinating mix of contemporary and classical art. This artistic spirit has a long tradition: in the 19th century, Honfleur developed into the artistic hotspot of Normandy. Names like Eugène Boudin are inextricably linked to the city. In the Musée Eugène Boudin, visitors can admire his masterpieces, which capture the fascinating coastal landscapes of the region. But Boudin was not the only one: greats such as Monet, Pissarro, Renoir and Cézanne also found their inspiration in Honfleur. The artists met regularly in the Ferme Saint-Siméon, a former farm. Today, it is a luxurious hotel with an unmistakable artistic flair and is reminiscent of the roots of Impressionism.

Deauville – Great Cinema on the Normandy Flower Coast

Hardly any other place embodies the classic elegance of a French seaside resort as much as Deauville. Ever since Coco Chanel presented her revolutionary beach fashion here, this charming coastal town has captivated stars, artists and travelers from all over the world. The building in which Chanel once had her shop still exists and is a reminder of the luxury brand's iconic roots. The legendary beach promenade "Les Planches" with its colorful parasols, iconic bathing huts and the fantastic view of the sea is a true trademark.

And it's not just the rich and beautiful who stroll here - the elegant atmosphere makes the walk an experience for every visitor. Luxury characterizes the cityscape, from magnificent beach villas to first-class hotels and a historic casino. At the annual American Film Festival, the place is transformed into a hotspot for Hollywood stars and cineastes. Anyone who loves horse sports will also be thrilled: the racecourse attracts prestigious events where high society and ordinary betting fans enjoy the excitement side by side.

Le Lion d'Or – On cloud 7 in the Cloud & Cotton Bridal Suite

A real surprise awaited me in the Le Lion D'Or Hotelwhen I opened the door to my room: floating bed, airy furnishings, a rotating disco ball and a huge whirlpool accessible via white stone stairs.
So was I not completely overwhelmed, but immersed in clouds? I had the pleasure of experiencing the unique “Suite Nuages ​​& Coton“ The name itself is pure poetry, isn't it? Spread over two floors, the suite delivers what its name promises - a heavenly experience that perfectly combines comfort and a touch of extravagance.

Le Lion d'Or was originally opened in 1820 as a stagecoach station. Today, the charming hotel welcomes its guests with an inviting architecture that gives the building a romantic and nostalgic character. The historic 3-star spa hotel has 22 comfortable rooms, including 2 traditional rooms specially equipped for guests with reduced mobility. The offer is complemented by 5 suites with jacuzzis. The guest rooms and suites are grouped around a cozy courtyard. A small but fine spa area rounds off the stay perfectly.

In the Citroën Mehari to the Château du Breuil distillery

After a relaxing night at the Le Lion d'Or Hotel, the next day began adventurously: In a historic Citroën Méhari we drove to Château du Breuil distilleryThis property not only impresses with its first-class Calvados, but also with its fantastic location. The château, an architectural jewel from the 17th century, blends harmoniously into a spacious park with trees that are over a hundred years old. Those who want to fully enjoy the special atmosphere of this place even have the option of staying in stylish suites with a view of the idyllic lake.

The Liquid Gold of Normandy

The amber-colored fruit brandy, whose name derives from its protected designation of origin, is one of Normandy's most traditional spirits. Made from cider or occasionally from poiré (pear juice), only the distillate that comes from one of the region's eleven strictly defined growing areas can be called Calvados. The process is a real craft: the fruit is pressed, the juice is fermented into cider and then distilled in copper stills. But the real magic happens in the oak barrels, where the Calvados develops its deep, complex aromas during years of maturation - from fruity apple notes to warm vanilla and wood nuances.

Oyster Tasting – The Taste of the Sea

You either love them or hate them, but oysters are as much a part of Normandy as the chalk cliffs are to the English Channel. They are not only a culinary highlight, but also an indispensable part of the regional identity. Normandy, with its 600-kilometer coastline, is one of the most important oyster-growing regions in France. Along the coast, from the Cotentin peninsula to the Côte de Nacre, the shallow tidal waters ensure excellent conditions that give the oysters their incomparable taste.

Here, the shell jewels grow in the tidal zone, where they are regularly washed by the salty sea water. Whether raw with a dash of lemon, baked with cheese and herbs, or as part of a rich seafood platter with a good wine - restaurants along the coastal towns invite you to enjoy the fresh seafood with a dash of lemon or shallot vinaigrette.

Tatihou Island - Love Garden and Bird Paradise

After our Calvados and oyster tasting, we continued on to the small but impressive island of Tatihou off the Normandy Cotentin coast. The journey there promised adventure: at low tide, the island can be reached on dry land from the mainland. Those who prefer something more comfortable can choose the amphibious vehicle - a curious boat that glides effortlessly through water and over land. Tatihou, with its 28 hectares, combines history and nature in a special way. The mighty Vauban fortifications, which have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, are a reminder of the bitter sea battle of 1692. But today the island has a peaceful atmosphere, which is particularly noticeable in the lush gardens.

Tatihou Maritime Museum

Thanks to the mild climate, exotic plants thrive here in the so-called “love garden” alongside native herbs and fragrant flowers. Tatihou is also a paradise for ornithologists. Cormorants and terns are native here, as are many migratory birds that make this small island one of their resting places. The sea ​​museum offers a fascinating collection of archaeological finds from the naval battle of La Hougue in 1692, in which parts of the royal French fleet were sunk. There are also ethnographic exhibits and a section that deals with the geological formation of the island and its diverse flora and fauna. Regularly changing exhibitions are also devoted to the topic of the sea and its importance for the region.

Petit Chapeau goes Normandy

The next article will take us to a 900-year-old Norman town and the “Versailles Palace of Normandy”. We will also visit the oldest national stud farm in France. Curious? Don’t miss any new articles and sign up for our weekly, free newsletter. digital message in a bottle

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This article is part of a collaboration with Logis Hotels developed. We would like to thank you very much for that!