The department of Calvados is located within the northern coastal region of Normandy and is home to the historic towns of Bayeux and Caen. The area is also well known for its beautiful coastline, dotted with villages and traditional seaside resorts. You can also visit the beaches where the D-Day landings were made during World War Two, which are now home to a number of memorials and bunkers.
The town of Caen is the capital of the Lower Normandy region and has managed to preserve a lot of its historic architecture despite the bombardments during World War Two. There are a number of historic churches, including one founded by William the Conqueror who was born in the nearby town of Falaise. Visitors can still tour the 11th century castle in Falaise, where the Duke and future King of England was born. Caen is also home to the Duke's Castle, which is well worth the climb for the view over the city and the surrounding countryside.
The D-Day landing beaches are located just north of the town of Bayeux and are a great historical attraction as well as a beautiful place to explore the sand dunes found along this stretch of coast. There are memorials at each of the beaches involved, such as the famous Omaha-landing site, and several military cemeteries. You can visit the remains of the fort at Arromanches-les-Bains or one of the many museums dedicated to the Second World War in towns throughout Normandy. The 40-kilometre stretch of coastline between Cabourg and Honfleur is known as the “Flowery Coast” and is home to picturesque and traditional seaside towns like Deauville, which are still popular holiday resorts today. Between the towns, there are walking paths along the beaches, which provide great sea views.
The town of Bayeux is most famous for the tapestry commemorating the victory of William the Conqueror at Hastings in 1066, though the 70 metre long embroidery was not actually made in the town. Visitors can walk along the entire length of the tapestry in its special museum, and the English language audio guide is strongly recommended to help you understand the symbolism involved. Bayeux itself is a beautiful medieval town, with narrow streets and half-timbered houses, and is also home to one of the many D-Day museums in Calvados.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Calvados? Then below is a selection of gites in Calvados and villas in Calvados that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
