Dodging strikes and cruising the countryside - Brittany and Normandy Trip Report
May 1st, 2018 | 03:33 PM
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Dodging strikes and cruising the countryside - Brittany and Normandy Trip Report
I recently got back from a two week trip to France. The first week was in Brittany/Normandy and the second week was in Corsica and Paris.I’ll split this up into two trip reports.My reports are long.You’ve been warned ��
Flight: $460 RT on American Airlines from Houston to Paris, connecting in Dallas going over and Charlotte on the way back.I broke my vow to always fly direct when there is a carrier that offers such a flight, but I couldn’t resist the deal.After experiencing the exhaustion associated with making connections, I’ll return to my vow for future trips.That said, AA did a great job getting me to my destination early! And, I lucked out that my rail was not affected by strikes.
The first week of my trip was solo. A friend would be meeting up with me for the second week.I love traveling solo because I can do whatever I want, whenever I want.
April 16 – Arrival at CDG. Immigration took literally two minutes, so easy.This was my fourth trip to France and the first time they actually stamped my passport. Thanks to PalenQ’s tip which helped me decide which city to start my journey in and pick up my car, I had booked a TGV train to Rennes, departure 12:48 pm from CDG.Since my flight arrived early, I was able to go get my beloved snacks from the Marks and Spencer store in arrival hall in 2E (I had arrived in 2A).With much time to kill, I went into the Marriott lobby to hang out to escape the fray of the airport/train station. Happily, the train ticket I had bought in advance was not affected by the big rail strike. My train was, however, 30 minutes late in arriving at the station due to an obstruction somewhere on the line.I spent the time at the platform chatting with a nice French gentleman, who translated announcements for me since they weren’t always made in English.
I traveled in first class since my advance ticket was only 4 euro more than second class. It was a nice and quiet coach and easy ride into Rennes, my home for one night.
I stayed at the Ibis Styles Gare Nord, just across from the Rennes station. Getting there involved lugging all my stuff down a big staircase, but it was otherwise easy to find and get to my hotel.This hotel is spartan, with small bedrooms and bathrooms, but was clean, had free breakfast and reliable WIFI.
I spent the afternoon wandering around this busy little city. I enjoyed the churches I visited, but otherwise found this town to be nice, but unremarkable.Dinner was at a simple restaurant a block from my hotel.Note to anyone ordering beef:if you like your meat cooked well done, be sure to communicate that.It appears the default is rare.I always emphasize well done, so I was good.
Having not slept for more than 24 hours, I was happy to call it an early night and go to bed after dinner.
April 17
I had read in advance about Rennes’ busy city centre and difficulty driving around the train station, so I had reserved my car at the airport. I took a cab there, 14 euro.My car had been reserved through Auto Europe, my first time using them.The provider was Hertz.I was crossing my fingers they would have my automatic transmission vehicle for me because I can’t drive manual.Luckily, one had just come back, a Toyota C-HR.It was a nifty little car, bigger than I had been expecting to get, and served me very well for the extent of my week in the French countryside.
The weather for my entire two weeks was spectacular! Clear blue skies and warm.My friends all marvel at my pictures with the bright clear skies, day in and day out.I know I was very lucky!
First destination, Vitre. I loved this little city!It is a gem with a great castle, churches, and small town ambiance. It felt so much nicer than the busy Rennes.I enjoyed exploring the castle and churches very much and recommend this town as a good stop.Parking was in an easy lot, where I paid with coins.
Next stop was Fougeres. As much as I loved Vitre, I loved Fougeres even more.The castle is great and there are scenic walks and a pleasant town center.I enjoyed seeing some goats along the river walk. Parking was in a free parking lot down a hill.
I didn’t have lunch, just got some snacks. It was later in the day by this time, so I headed to my home for the next four nights, the Best Western Montgomery in Pontorson.This town is just a few miles from Mont St. Michel.
The staff at the Best Western is really nice, helpful and friendly. The hotel is a 500 year old mansion and has a neat staircase.My room was very spare, but also very clean.The only negative is the place doesn’t have air conditioning and it was warm the week I was there.I was able to cool down the room opening windows, but after reading another Fodorite’s report about pigeons invading the room when he left the window open while he was gone, I made sure to close my windows whenever I left because there were plenty of pigeons loitering along the roof line.WIFI was good here, which made me happy too. Parking is in a free municipal lot around the corner from the hotel. I never had trouble getting a spot and always felt safe leaving my car there.
I grabbed dinner at an Italian restaurant across the street. It was not good and it was extremely warm in the building.At 7 pm, I headed to Mont St. Michel to explore the place without the crowds. I saw a sign for a windmill along the way, so I turned in to check that out.It was quite scenic surrounded by a field of yellow flowers.
Arriving at MSM, it’s quite like Disney World with the parking lots. It’s very organized though with arrows directing drivers to lots.You park, take note of your lot, and then proceed to the free shuttles that whisk you to the Mont.Parking is free if you enter after 7 pm and leave before a certain time in the morning.
Let me tell you, it is so wonderful to be there after hours. The stores and abbey are closed, but the place is so special when you have the alleys practically to yourself.The St. Pierre church was open, so it was nice to pay a visit.I climbed to the top of the Mont, and watched the tides come in from one of the towers with a small number of people.
At the bottom of the Mont, I enjoyed watching staff make omelets at the famous La Mere Poulard. What a neat looking place!But, what crazy prices!Omelets ranged from 34 to 38 euro.That’s just plain insane!I’d need a filet mignon with that omelet!
I proceeded to the bridge to watch the sun finish coming down and see the waves keep coming in. They would occasionally splash through openings on the bridge and surprise people.That was kind of amusing.
It had been a warm day, but it sure does cool down quite a bit when the sun is gone. MSM is glorious at night and I truly enjoyed my evening visit.
April 18
Breakfast is not included at the hotel, so I grabbed a croissant from a bakery on the street for one euro and hit the road for Dinan. I thought this would be my favorite town and that I would do the Rick Steves walk, but I ended up just wandering around, visiting churches, shops and taking in the scene in general.
It was a lot bigger and busier than I had been expecting, so I was pretty ready to leave by lunchtime.I had lunch at McD’s on the outskirts of town before heading to Fort La Latte and Cap Frehel.I loved it out there!
The castle is awesome and so beautifully situated on the Emerald Coast. I enjoyed climbing to the top of the highest tower.The final little set of stairs would not be for those with a fear of heights or falling.The hand rails are ropes and it’s kind of like climbing a ladder.The views are spectacular.This place was not crowded and it exceeded my expectations.
Eventually, I had to move on and so I decided to vary from my schedule and pop into Dinard. It was so busy here!The homes are amazing and the coast promenade is really nice.The town was too busy for my preference though and I am glad I wasn’t staying there.I had a scoop of some ice cream, as it seemed the thing to do in a beach town and then I headed back to Pontorson.
April 19
Mont St. Michel day visit and St. Malo!
I set out early for MSM, yet another glorious weather day. The shuttle bus was jammed pack with middle school students.Oh goodness!I could have lost my mind!Luckily, you can get distance from these groups once on the island.The abbey is exceptional and it seemed like something out of a movie. I had a good time exploring the site and then wandered down the alleys, looking in a few stores, before heading on to the next stop.
I visited the German Military Cemetery that was close by. It involved a scenic, quiet country drive.Only one other car was there, so I and one couple had the place to ourselves.It’s a somber, sad place, but so nicely done and you couldn’t ask for a more peaceful resting place for the dead.
I had seen on the previous day signs to Dol-de-Bretagne and recalled FrenchMystiqueTours recommending it, so I took a brief detour from my original schedule. I visited the cathedral, which was gorgeous, walked some of the streets and had lunch at a little place across from the cathedral.Great town!Thanks, FrenchMystiqueTours!
There are so many cute and charming towns in this part of France. Throughout my week, I would sometimes pull over and go check out random things.That is the beauty of independent travel!
I drove onward to Cancale, but didn’t get out. I missed out on the rock sculptures along the way because I was behind schedule.St. Malo was very, very busy. Everyone was on holiday!I first tried to go visit St. Vincent’s but a funeral was taking place, so I wandered elsewhere, including up on the ramparts.If you’ve read the book “All the Light We Cannot See”, you will feel right at home here.That author did such a wonderful job describing the place.The people of St. Malo have accomplished a remarkable feat restoring the city.I eventually wandered back to St. Vincent’s and got to check that out.
I had my first macroon ever in a cute pastry shop within the walls (with a nice clean bathroom).
I drove over to Solidor Tower, but they were just locking it up. Oh well!It was cool to see.
April 20
Bayeux and D Day sites.
I was a little slower out the door this day, but eventually made it to Bayeux. I first visited the cathedral, which was stunning.Then, I went to see the famous tapestry, which was pretty cool.The audio guide is really good.I messed up the order of my touring and missed out on the Bishop’s palace museum, for which I had already purchased admission.They close for lunch at 12:30 (grrr) and I got there a few minutes after 12.They wouldn’t let me in, saying there was no way I could see it all in 25 minutes.I promised I would be out by 12:30, that I would just see what I could see in the small amount of time, but they were firm.This is one of those cultural difference things that can be frustrating.It’s hard to imagine a museum in the USA closing for a long lunch.And, I really would have adhered to the schedule to be out the door so they didn’t miss a minute of lunch.Sigh.No doubt the museum is fabulous.
I made my way to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. The visitor’s center does a wonderful job and it was very moving to see photos of soldiers and their belongings and equipment.The grounds of the cemetery and memorial are impressive.It’s clear they take reverent care of the property and it made my heart feel good.
I then made a beeline for Utah Beach. A short amount of time was spent there and then I drove to see the famous Sainte Mere Eglise.It was an incredible experience to see just a few of these historic sites.If I went back to Normandy, I’d probably take an escorted day trip tour for the war sites.
I needed to do some laundry for the second week of my trip and luckily there was a “Salon de Lavoir” a short drive away and it was open until 9 pm. As my clothes were being washed, I had a pizza from the takeout place next door.One small load of wash was 4.50 euro and drying was 1 euro per ten minutes.This was the first time I had ever done laundry on a trip, outside of washing things out in the bathroom sink.Since it had been so warm, I wasn’t going to get away with re-wearing clothes.
April 21
I had wanted to visit Avranches the day before, but didn’t have time. I was glad I made the time to go visit this day.There is a castle and three great churches to visit.As it was Saturday, the town was quite packed and it took me a while to find a place to park.I eventually found free parking a bit of a hike.In additions to the churches, I visited the plant garden and also some of the markets.There is a great view of MSM from the gardens, looking very mystical in the distance.
Then, I headed to Combourg on my way back to Rennes to return my car. Sadly, the town’s big tourist attraction, le chateau, is closed on the weekends except for July and August.Very disappointing and surprising!It’s still a nice town to stop in and the chateau is incredibly photogenic.
I returned my car to the Rennes Airport at 3:15 and the plan was to hop in a cab to catch my 4:35 train back to Paris. Well, there was a complete taxi meltdown in the city and no cabs were at the airport.The airport information desk was not nice.They said cabs should show up in 5-10 minutes.I and others waited and waited.Eventually, a lady called the cab company and was told there would be no cabs going to the airport that afternoon.I would have to go down the street, wait for a local bus, endure a million stops and then get on the Metro to get to the train station.I met the nicest guy who helped me navigate everything.It was a hot afternoon and I was stressed out about catching my train since I had a flight to Corsica the next day.
Just like a movie, with me running desperately, I arrived at the station to find they had just closed the gate leading to my platform.No movie heroic leap on to the train for me!Funny how some train stations you can get to the platform and others you can’t.I proceeded to watch my train roll out a few minutes later.Why couldn’t I have had the 30 minute delay that I had on the outbound journey?Murphy’s Law, I guess.
I was fearing what I would be told at the ticket counter.Since I had bought an early, non changeable, nonrefundable ticket, I figured I would have to buy an expensive new ticket.Luckily, thanks to the turmoil surrounding the rail strikes, the agent was able to put me on the next train for free.What a relief!I got myself a cool drink until time to catch my new train.The ride was easy and smooth.
Boy, did I not know what I was in for next.My plan had been to arrive at Gare Montparnesse and then use the Metro to get to my hotel.I had completely forgotten how hideous it is to connect with heavy luggage.Up and down stairs, long corridors, all dragging a 30 pound suitcase, plus a backpack and purse.On a hot, hot day!Miserable!If only I had remembered, I would have just taken a cab from the train station.Shame on me!
I was so deliriously exhausted when I emerged from the metro at Chatelet, that I went the wrong direction for several blocks before I realized my mistake. I was so happy when I finally got to my hotel, the Hotel Andrea. This has been my hotel choice for a couple of previous trips because of its stellar location. I didn’t sleep well there this time around and I don’t think I’ll be using it again.
I had dinner at McD’s because it was quick and easy. I met up with my friend who had flown in that morning.The next day, we were to fly out to Corsica and that trip will be detailed in another thread.
All in all, I love Brittany and Normandy and enjoyed my time there very much. The sights are beautiful, the people are nice, and the driving is easy.
Flight: $460 RT on American Airlines from Houston to Paris, connecting in Dallas going over and Charlotte on the way back.I broke my vow to always fly direct when there is a carrier that offers such a flight, but I couldn’t resist the deal.After experiencing the exhaustion associated with making connections, I’ll return to my vow for future trips.That said, AA did a great job getting me to my destination early! And, I lucked out that my rail was not affected by strikes.
The first week of my trip was solo. A friend would be meeting up with me for the second week.I love traveling solo because I can do whatever I want, whenever I want.
April 16 – Arrival at CDG. Immigration took literally two minutes, so easy.This was my fourth trip to France and the first time they actually stamped my passport. Thanks to PalenQ’s tip which helped me decide which city to start my journey in and pick up my car, I had booked a TGV train to Rennes, departure 12:48 pm from CDG.Since my flight arrived early, I was able to go get my beloved snacks from the Marks and Spencer store in arrival hall in 2E (I had arrived in 2A).With much time to kill, I went into the Marriott lobby to hang out to escape the fray of the airport/train station. Happily, the train ticket I had bought in advance was not affected by the big rail strike. My train was, however, 30 minutes late in arriving at the station due to an obstruction somewhere on the line.I spent the time at the platform chatting with a nice French gentleman, who translated announcements for me since they weren’t always made in English.
I traveled in first class since my advance ticket was only 4 euro more than second class. It was a nice and quiet coach and easy ride into Rennes, my home for one night.
I stayed at the Ibis Styles Gare Nord, just across from the Rennes station. Getting there involved lugging all my stuff down a big staircase, but it was otherwise easy to find and get to my hotel.This hotel is spartan, with small bedrooms and bathrooms, but was clean, had free breakfast and reliable WIFI.
I spent the afternoon wandering around this busy little city. I enjoyed the churches I visited, but otherwise found this town to be nice, but unremarkable.Dinner was at a simple restaurant a block from my hotel.Note to anyone ordering beef:if you like your meat cooked well done, be sure to communicate that.It appears the default is rare.I always emphasize well done, so I was good.
Having not slept for more than 24 hours, I was happy to call it an early night and go to bed after dinner.
April 17
I had read in advance about Rennes’ busy city centre and difficulty driving around the train station, so I had reserved my car at the airport. I took a cab there, 14 euro.My car had been reserved through Auto Europe, my first time using them.The provider was Hertz.I was crossing my fingers they would have my automatic transmission vehicle for me because I can’t drive manual.Luckily, one had just come back, a Toyota C-HR.It was a nifty little car, bigger than I had been expecting to get, and served me very well for the extent of my week in the French countryside.
The weather for my entire two weeks was spectacular! Clear blue skies and warm.My friends all marvel at my pictures with the bright clear skies, day in and day out.I know I was very lucky!
First destination, Vitre. I loved this little city!It is a gem with a great castle, churches, and small town ambiance. It felt so much nicer than the busy Rennes.I enjoyed exploring the castle and churches very much and recommend this town as a good stop.Parking was in an easy lot, where I paid with coins.
Next stop was Fougeres. As much as I loved Vitre, I loved Fougeres even more.The castle is great and there are scenic walks and a pleasant town center.I enjoyed seeing some goats along the river walk. Parking was in a free parking lot down a hill.
I didn’t have lunch, just got some snacks. It was later in the day by this time, so I headed to my home for the next four nights, the Best Western Montgomery in Pontorson.This town is just a few miles from Mont St. Michel.
The staff at the Best Western is really nice, helpful and friendly. The hotel is a 500 year old mansion and has a neat staircase.My room was very spare, but also very clean.The only negative is the place doesn’t have air conditioning and it was warm the week I was there.I was able to cool down the room opening windows, but after reading another Fodorite’s report about pigeons invading the room when he left the window open while he was gone, I made sure to close my windows whenever I left because there were plenty of pigeons loitering along the roof line.WIFI was good here, which made me happy too. Parking is in a free municipal lot around the corner from the hotel. I never had trouble getting a spot and always felt safe leaving my car there.
I grabbed dinner at an Italian restaurant across the street. It was not good and it was extremely warm in the building.At 7 pm, I headed to Mont St. Michel to explore the place without the crowds. I saw a sign for a windmill along the way, so I turned in to check that out.It was quite scenic surrounded by a field of yellow flowers.
Arriving at MSM, it’s quite like Disney World with the parking lots. It’s very organized though with arrows directing drivers to lots.You park, take note of your lot, and then proceed to the free shuttles that whisk you to the Mont.Parking is free if you enter after 7 pm and leave before a certain time in the morning.
Let me tell you, it is so wonderful to be there after hours. The stores and abbey are closed, but the place is so special when you have the alleys practically to yourself.The St. Pierre church was open, so it was nice to pay a visit.I climbed to the top of the Mont, and watched the tides come in from one of the towers with a small number of people.
At the bottom of the Mont, I enjoyed watching staff make omelets at the famous La Mere Poulard. What a neat looking place!But, what crazy prices!Omelets ranged from 34 to 38 euro.That’s just plain insane!I’d need a filet mignon with that omelet!
I proceeded to the bridge to watch the sun finish coming down and see the waves keep coming in. They would occasionally splash through openings on the bridge and surprise people.That was kind of amusing.
It had been a warm day, but it sure does cool down quite a bit when the sun is gone. MSM is glorious at night and I truly enjoyed my evening visit.
April 18
Breakfast is not included at the hotel, so I grabbed a croissant from a bakery on the street for one euro and hit the road for Dinan. I thought this would be my favorite town and that I would do the Rick Steves walk, but I ended up just wandering around, visiting churches, shops and taking in the scene in general.
It was a lot bigger and busier than I had been expecting, so I was pretty ready to leave by lunchtime.I had lunch at McD’s on the outskirts of town before heading to Fort La Latte and Cap Frehel.I loved it out there!
The castle is awesome and so beautifully situated on the Emerald Coast. I enjoyed climbing to the top of the highest tower.The final little set of stairs would not be for those with a fear of heights or falling.The hand rails are ropes and it’s kind of like climbing a ladder.The views are spectacular.This place was not crowded and it exceeded my expectations.
Eventually, I had to move on and so I decided to vary from my schedule and pop into Dinard. It was so busy here!The homes are amazing and the coast promenade is really nice.The town was too busy for my preference though and I am glad I wasn’t staying there.I had a scoop of some ice cream, as it seemed the thing to do in a beach town and then I headed back to Pontorson.
April 19
Mont St. Michel day visit and St. Malo!
I set out early for MSM, yet another glorious weather day. The shuttle bus was jammed pack with middle school students.Oh goodness!I could have lost my mind!Luckily, you can get distance from these groups once on the island.The abbey is exceptional and it seemed like something out of a movie. I had a good time exploring the site and then wandered down the alleys, looking in a few stores, before heading on to the next stop.
I visited the German Military Cemetery that was close by. It involved a scenic, quiet country drive.Only one other car was there, so I and one couple had the place to ourselves.It’s a somber, sad place, but so nicely done and you couldn’t ask for a more peaceful resting place for the dead.
I had seen on the previous day signs to Dol-de-Bretagne and recalled FrenchMystiqueTours recommending it, so I took a brief detour from my original schedule. I visited the cathedral, which was gorgeous, walked some of the streets and had lunch at a little place across from the cathedral.Great town!Thanks, FrenchMystiqueTours!
There are so many cute and charming towns in this part of France. Throughout my week, I would sometimes pull over and go check out random things.That is the beauty of independent travel!
I drove onward to Cancale, but didn’t get out. I missed out on the rock sculptures along the way because I was behind schedule.St. Malo was very, very busy. Everyone was on holiday!I first tried to go visit St. Vincent’s but a funeral was taking place, so I wandered elsewhere, including up on the ramparts.If you’ve read the book “All the Light We Cannot See”, you will feel right at home here.That author did such a wonderful job describing the place.The people of St. Malo have accomplished a remarkable feat restoring the city.I eventually wandered back to St. Vincent’s and got to check that out.
I had my first macroon ever in a cute pastry shop within the walls (with a nice clean bathroom).
I drove over to Solidor Tower, but they were just locking it up. Oh well!It was cool to see.
April 20
Bayeux and D Day sites.
I was a little slower out the door this day, but eventually made it to Bayeux. I first visited the cathedral, which was stunning.Then, I went to see the famous tapestry, which was pretty cool.The audio guide is really good.I messed up the order of my touring and missed out on the Bishop’s palace museum, for which I had already purchased admission.They close for lunch at 12:30 (grrr) and I got there a few minutes after 12.They wouldn’t let me in, saying there was no way I could see it all in 25 minutes.I promised I would be out by 12:30, that I would just see what I could see in the small amount of time, but they were firm.This is one of those cultural difference things that can be frustrating.It’s hard to imagine a museum in the USA closing for a long lunch.And, I really would have adhered to the schedule to be out the door so they didn’t miss a minute of lunch.Sigh.No doubt the museum is fabulous.
I made my way to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. The visitor’s center does a wonderful job and it was very moving to see photos of soldiers and their belongings and equipment.The grounds of the cemetery and memorial are impressive.It’s clear they take reverent care of the property and it made my heart feel good.
I then made a beeline for Utah Beach. A short amount of time was spent there and then I drove to see the famous Sainte Mere Eglise.It was an incredible experience to see just a few of these historic sites.If I went back to Normandy, I’d probably take an escorted day trip tour for the war sites.
I needed to do some laundry for the second week of my trip and luckily there was a “Salon de Lavoir” a short drive away and it was open until 9 pm. As my clothes were being washed, I had a pizza from the takeout place next door.One small load of wash was 4.50 euro and drying was 1 euro per ten minutes.This was the first time I had ever done laundry on a trip, outside of washing things out in the bathroom sink.Since it had been so warm, I wasn’t going to get away with re-wearing clothes.
April 21
I had wanted to visit Avranches the day before, but didn’t have time. I was glad I made the time to go visit this day.There is a castle and three great churches to visit.As it was Saturday, the town was quite packed and it took me a while to find a place to park.I eventually found free parking a bit of a hike.In additions to the churches, I visited the plant garden and also some of the markets.There is a great view of MSM from the gardens, looking very mystical in the distance.
Then, I headed to Combourg on my way back to Rennes to return my car. Sadly, the town’s big tourist attraction, le chateau, is closed on the weekends except for July and August.Very disappointing and surprising!It’s still a nice town to stop in and the chateau is incredibly photogenic.
I returned my car to the Rennes Airport at 3:15 and the plan was to hop in a cab to catch my 4:35 train back to Paris. Well, there was a complete taxi meltdown in the city and no cabs were at the airport.The airport information desk was not nice.They said cabs should show up in 5-10 minutes.I and others waited and waited.Eventually, a lady called the cab company and was told there would be no cabs going to the airport that afternoon.I would have to go down the street, wait for a local bus, endure a million stops and then get on the Metro to get to the train station.I met the nicest guy who helped me navigate everything.It was a hot afternoon and I was stressed out about catching my train since I had a flight to Corsica the next day.
Just like a movie, with me running desperately, I arrived at the station to find they had just closed the gate leading to my platform.No movie heroic leap on to the train for me!Funny how some train stations you can get to the platform and others you can’t.I proceeded to watch my train roll out a few minutes later.Why couldn’t I have had the 30 minute delay that I had on the outbound journey?Murphy’s Law, I guess.
I was fearing what I would be told at the ticket counter.Since I had bought an early, non changeable, nonrefundable ticket, I figured I would have to buy an expensive new ticket.Luckily, thanks to the turmoil surrounding the rail strikes, the agent was able to put me on the next train for free.What a relief!I got myself a cool drink until time to catch my new train.The ride was easy and smooth.
Boy, did I not know what I was in for next.My plan had been to arrive at Gare Montparnesse and then use the Metro to get to my hotel.I had completely forgotten how hideous it is to connect with heavy luggage.Up and down stairs, long corridors, all dragging a 30 pound suitcase, plus a backpack and purse.On a hot, hot day!Miserable!If only I had remembered, I would have just taken a cab from the train station.Shame on me!
I was so deliriously exhausted when I emerged from the metro at Chatelet, that I went the wrong direction for several blocks before I realized my mistake. I was so happy when I finally got to my hotel, the Hotel Andrea. This has been my hotel choice for a couple of previous trips because of its stellar location. I didn’t sleep well there this time around and I don’t think I’ll be using it again.
I had dinner at McD’s because it was quick and easy. I met up with my friend who had flown in that morning.The next day, we were to fly out to Corsica and that trip will be detailed in another thread.
All in all, I love Brittany and Normandy and enjoyed my time there very much. The sights are beautiful, the people are nice, and the driving is easy.
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Last edited by aggiegirl; May 1st, 2018 at 03:55 PM. Reason: spacing issue
May 2nd, 2018 | 08:19 AM
#2
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 57,091
Likes: 5
Great start to your trip and your TR, aggiegirl. I've spent quite a lot of time in Brittany and Normany as the ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff is only 1 ½ hours drive from here but I still haven't seen some of the things you've seen, though there was an overlap in places. So you have stirred me up to go and see MSM [if only to compare it with our own St Michael's Mount here in Cornwall] and Bayeux, though as they are lending us the tapestry I'd have to make sure I waited till we gave it back.
Your transfer back to Paris sounds horrendous - let's hope that the trip to Corsica is a lot better.
Your transfer back to Paris sounds horrendous - let's hope that the trip to Corsica is a lot better.
May 3rd, 2018 | 07:56 AM
#4
Original Poster
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 872
Likes: 0
Annhig, you must definitely go visit MSM. Having visited your lovely St. Michael’s Mount a couple of years ago, I was eager myself to compare the two.
i had read that the tapestry would be loaned to England later this year and am glad it was still in Bayeux during my visit. I’m really surprised they are loaning their blockbuster attraction. Surely there must be compensation, right?
i had read that the tapestry would be loaned to England later this year and am glad it was still in Bayeux during my visit. I’m really surprised they are loaning their blockbuster attraction. Surely there must be compensation, right?
May 3rd, 2018 | 08:02 AM
#5
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 24,032
Likes: 6
Mont Saint Michel is the second most visited place in France after Paris, but one should never consider such a place obligatory. It is fabulous, but are there not many other places that can receive that qualification? Just go with your instincts and your own personal preferences.
May 3rd, 2018 | 09:27 AM
#7
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 57,091
Likes: 5
thanks, aggiegirl - hopefully I can find a window to get there within the next 5 years.
kerouac - of course there are no "musts" but it does seem daft that we live so close to both MSM and Bayeux but have never seen them. We almost got there a couple of years or so ago but at the last minute Bill decided that he wanted to head for South Brittany again, so if I do go, it'll have to be by myself.
kerouac - of course there are no "musts" but it does seem daft that we live so close to both MSM and Bayeux but have never seen them. We almost got there a couple of years or so ago but at the last minute Bill decided that he wanted to head for South Brittany again, so if I do go, it'll have to be by myself.
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