While most walking tours of Normandy and Brittany miss out on the magic of the Cotentin Peninsula, this Country Walkers tour brings you its spectacular coastal scenery during a two-night stay at a charming waterfront hotel. Along the way, you’ll traverse the scenic wind-swept dunes of the Norman coast—pausing to pay an inspirational visit to the historic site of the D-day landings with a local guide. Explore the impressive cliffs of Étretat—the inspiration behind many of Monet’s Impressionist paintings. Venture into Brittany for a scenic seaside stroll along unique tidal plains towards Mont St. Michel. Explore this splendid island monastery with a local guide—winding your way through charming medieval back streets to the door of its 8th-century Benedictine abbey. During a two-night stay in historic St. Malo, you’ll experience the best of Brittany—including exquisitely fresh seafood, pristine sandy beaches, and ancient streets that showcase the rich history of this vibrant coastal region.
Walk scenic coastal landscapes immortalized by French Impressionists and important D-day beaches where World War II history was made.
Stay in the historical departure ports of French explorers Samuel de Champlain and Jacques Cartier.
Explore the island monastery of Mont St. Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site set in the postcard-perfect landscape of Northern France.
Savor France’s delectable cuisine in stunning coastal settings, trying fresh oysters, locally caught seafood, and creamy handmade cheeses paired with delightful local wines.
Stroll the ramparts of Saint-Malo, a fortified corsair city steeped in maritime history and rich with coastal charm.
Positive Impact
Country Walkers is proud to support the Association of Friends of Longues Abbey and its Gardens with a donation on behalf of each guest on this tour. The Association of Friends of Longues Abbey and its Gardens maintains the environment, restoration work, and landscapes of the Longues Abbey, originally a 12th Century monastery. The Abbey is an emblematic monument of Normandy, and the Association of Friends of Longues Abbey and its Gardens keeps this important place alive through events and preservation.
On all Guided Adventures you can count on...
Expert local leaders to introduce you to the best of your destination
Off-the-beaten-path places you’d never find on your own
Delicious multi-course meals—a majority are included
A maximum of 18 fun-loving fellow travelers to share the journey
Gracious accommodations that are a clean, comfortable home away from home
Experts to handle all the details
Air Packages include plane tickets, airport shuttles, and pre- and post-tour accommodations
Terrain Description for France: Normandy & Brittany
This tour is one of our Guided Walking Adventures, rated easy to moderate, with an average of 3 to 5 miles per day. Walks are along grassy trails, atop cliffs overlooking the sea, and over sand dunes. The terrain is smooth with few rocks or roots to negotiate, although there could be mud in some places after rain. There are daily ascents and descents, with gentle rolling hills and elevation change of up to 500 feet. Please note that the mileage when visiting the D-day beaches and American Cemetery is minimal as the main focus is hearing about the history of that event. The itinerary presents a mixture of lovely seaside and rural landscapes, as well as birdlife, and focuses on the landing beaches of World War II and their accompanying history, the Viking and Norse invasions of the 9th century, medieval architecture and history, and the traditional customs and food of both Normandy and Brittany. This tour covers a large area of France and therefore involves a few long bus trips which are broken up with walks and cultural visits.
Miles and Elevation for France: Normandy & Brittany
Summary of the activity level of the tour France: Normandy & Brittany
, broken down by day and available options.
Tour Day
Choose Your Route Options
Miles per Option
Hours per Option**
Elevation per Option***
Activity Level
1
Walk
4.5
02:15
easy-moderate
2
Walk
3
01:30
easy-moderate
3
ShortLong
4.55.5
02:1503:15
easyeasy
4
Walk
5
02:30
easy-moderate
5
ShortLong
35
1:302:30
easy-moderateeasy-moderate
6
Walk
3.5
01:45
easy-moderate
Alternate options may be available **Route mileage, hours, and elevation gain/loss are all approximate ***Elevation gain/loss indicated if greater than 500 feet
A Country Walkers representative will greet you at the airport to start your first day in Paris off right. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel, perfectly positioned for exploring the city at your leisure. Located on the Right Bank, your hotel is close to many beloved attractions and neighborhoods, including Montmartre, the Louvre and Tuileries, Le Marais, and Place de la Bastille.
After enjoying an included breakfast at your hotel, your Country Walkers representative meets you at the Hotel l’Echiquier Opéra Paris at 8:00 a.m. in the lobby.
Depart Paris and begin an approximately two-hour drive to Normandy. Your first stop in this northern region of France is the Manoir d’Apreval, a family-owned estate surrounded by an abundant apple orchard featuring 17 varieties of apples. The estate specializes in producing cider and Calvados liqueur. During harvest time, a restored press is used to make cider, which eventually becomes Calvados after aging in oak barrels.
After a tour of the estate and a buffet lunch, you leave the Manoir d’Apreval on foot, entering the Bois du Breuil nature reserve. A forest trail alternates with views of the Seine Estuary and country lanes bordered by Normandy’s famous hedgerows. About one mile from Honfleur, you reach the Notre Dame de Grâce Chapel—a pilgrimage site for local fishermen, adorned with plaques of gratitude from sailors and their families. You then descend into Honfleur, taking in sweeping views over the Seine River as it flows into the sea, and of the modern Normandy Bridge, which links Honfleur with the port of Le Havre. Many of these vistas were famously depicted by 19th-century painters such as Claude Monet and Gustave Courbet.
Passing Honfleur’s slate-shingled houses, you reach your enchanting hotel in the heart of town. This evening, reconvene for dinner in the hotel’s restaurant, where the menu reflects the bounty of the surrounding countryside and nearby coast. Normandy’s famed cheeses—developed by monks as early as the 11th century—may round out your meal, including rich Pont-l’Évêque, Livarot, or the best-known of them all, Camembert.
Awaken in the comfort of your historic hotel and enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit and homemade baked goods with jam. Then drive through the beautiful countryside of Pays de Caux to the start of today’s walk. Your trail gently descends through an oak forest and into an open landscape of pasture and gorse along the dramatic coastline of “La Manche”—the English Channel. You soon enjoy your first views of the towering cliffs and rock formations of Étretat, a favorite subject of Impressionist painter Claude Monet.
Follow the trail along the cliff tops toward the famous Manneporte rock arch, the Porte d’Aval, and the Aiguille, or “needle.” The 19th-century French author Guy de Maupassant spent much of his childhood in the small fishing and resort town of Étretat.
Upon returning to your hotel, take time to relax and perhaps indulge in a spa treatment or hammam (Turkish bath) before dinner on your own in Honfleur. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, ranging from gourmet establishments to local crêperies.
Lounges-sur-Mer Battery; .5 miles, easy. Omaha Beach to American Cemetery; 1.5 miles, easy
Today’s itinerary includes minimal walking, as the focus is on visiting the D-day beaches and the American Military Cemetery. Travel approximately two hours to the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer, where you meet a local historian who provides insight into the events of the D-day landings.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, walk along the sands of Omaha Beach to the American Military Cemetery, the final resting place of 9,387 American soldiers. Each grave is marked with either a Star of David or a white cross—this was the first American World War II cemetery established on European soil. Your leader shares context about the battle, explaining why the casualties at Omaha Beach were significantly higher than at other landing sites, as Allied soldiers had to run inland toward well-positioned German defenses on the ridge.
After this moving visit, travel a short distance to your home for the next two nights. This evening, enjoy a warm welcome and a delicious dinner at your historic château.
Today’s walk takes you to the coastal town of Arromanches, which played a vital role in the D-day landings. A short shuttle from the hotel returns you to the village of Longues-sur-Mer. From here, trace a scenic walking and biking path through green fields and along the coast before descending into Arromanches-les-Bains. It was here that Allied forces constructed one of their famous Mulberry harbors—portable, temporary structures that enabled the rapid transfer of troops and supplies. Remnants of these harbors are still visible at low tide.
Enjoy free time and lunch on your own. You may wish to visit the D-day Museum to learn more about the harbor and landings, or take a short hike (1 mile round trip) up to Churchill Cliff to view Arromanches 360, a circular theater featuring a powerful film about D-day and its aftermath, using a mix of wartime footage and modern images.
Rejoin your group and return to your countryside château with time to unwind. Later this afternoon, join your tour leaders for an optional walk from the hotel into the medieval center of Bayeux, or opt for the available shuttle. Once in town, you might explore Bayeux’s stunning cathedral, consecrated in 1077 in the presence of William the Conqueror, or visit the museum housing the famed 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry—a 220-foot-long embroidered account of the Battle of Hastings and William’s conquest of England. You may also choose to visit the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum.
Enjoy dinner on your own in town, or shuttle back to the hotel for a meal at the fine dining restaurant.
Note: The Bayeux Tapestry Museum will close on September 1, 2025, for renovations and is scheduled to reopen in 2027.
3 miles, easy to moderate and 2 miles, easy with moderate sections
Today’s itinerary takes you from Normandy into Brittany, beginning with a drive toward the Baie du Mont-St-Michel, famous for its dramatic tides. The journey offers panoramic views of the bay and the iconic, pyramid-shaped island monastery of Mont-St-Michel. Opposite this fantastical landmark lies Tombelaine Island, a protected sanctuary for nesting shell ducks, marine and brown seagulls, and white egrets.
After a scenic walk along the coast, continue to the monastery—one of the most impressive constructions of the Middle Ages, a quintessential symbol of northern France, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cross the causeway to the island, located just a half-mile offshore, and wind your way through cobbled streets to the top of the mount at the door of the Benedictine Abbey, which dates back to the 8th century. While the abbey’s origins are early, most of its current structures were built in the 11th century, with the main church façade added in the 12th century. Learn about the lives of the medieval monks and villagers, with special attention paid to the island’s remarkably preserved architecture.
Please note: The guided tour of the abbey includes many steps. If you prefer to skip it, you are welcome to explore the village’s narrow back streets and charming shops on your own.
Afterward, travel to your home for the next two nights: the medieval, fortified city of Saint-Malo in Brittany. Once home to French “corsair” privateers and Jacques Cartier—considered the first European explorer of Canada—Saint-Malo is now a popular seaside resort. Its long sandy beach and promenade lead to historic granite city walls. Your oceanfront hotel is ideally located for strolling to the promenade or Saint-Malo’s Old Town. After check-in, your leaders will provide recommendations for dinner.
Today’s walk takes place on the westernmost tip of the Baie du Mont-St-Michel, along the Pointe du Grouin—a windswept headland offering expansive views north to the Chausey Islands and west along the coast toward Saint-Malo. Fifteen miles to the east, Mont-St-Michel appears as a speck on the horizon. A German pillbox coastal fortification now serves as an ornithological observatory overlooking a bird sanctuary island. The coastal path winds through a series of tiny coves, some with small ports tucked within them.
Later this afternoon, stroll the ramparts of Saint-Malo past the mast-filled port, perhaps pausing to visit La Maison de Corsaire or the Grand Aquarium, which houses more than 600 species. Alternatively, relax by the hotel pool or book a spa treatment.
Tonight, celebrate the week’s adventures with a sumptuous farewell dinner in your hotel’s fine dining restaurant.
Spend a leisurely morning in Saint-Malo. In the late morning, travel with your guides to the nearby train station for a high-speed train ride back to Paris (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes). Upon arrival at Gare Montparnasse, make your way to your hotel for the evening, located directly across from the station. From this convenient location on Paris’s Left Bank, you are well positioned to explore some of the city’s top attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, Versailles, and the Catacombs. Lunch and dinner are on your own today.
Au revoir! After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation is provided to Charles de Gaulle International Airport based on your departure time.
Meet your Country Walkers representative in the lobby of the Hotel l’Echiquier Opéra Paris at 8:00 a.m.
Depart Paris and begin an approximately two-hour drive to Normandy. Your first stop in this northern region of France is the Manoir d’Apreval, a family-owned estate surrounded by an abundant apple orchard featuring 17 varieties of apples. The estate specializes in producing cider and Calvados liqueur. During harvest time, a restored press is used to make cider, which eventually becomes Calvados after aging in oak barrels.
After a tour of the estate and a buffet lunch, you leave the Manoir d’Apreval on foot, entering the Bois du Breuil nature reserve. A forest trail alternates with views of the Seine Estuary and country lanes bordered by Normandy’s famous hedgerows. About one mile from Honfleur, you reach the Notre Dame de Grâce Chapel—a pilgrimage site for local fishermen, adorned with plaques of gratitude from sailors and their families. You then descend into Honfleur, taking in sweeping views over the Seine River as it flows into the sea, and of the modern Normandy Bridge, which links Honfleur with the port of Le Havre. Many of these vistas were famously depicted by 19th-century painters such as Claude Monet and Gustave Courbet.
Passing Honfleur’s slate-shingled houses, you reach your enchanting hotel in the heart of town. This evening, reconvene for dinner in the hotel’s restaurant, where the menu reflects the bounty of the surrounding countryside and nearby coast. Normandy’s famed cheeses—developed by monks as early as the 11th century—may round out your meal, including rich Pont-l’Évêque, Livarot, or the best-known of them all, Camembert.
Awaken in the comfort of your historic hotel and enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit and homemade baked goods with jam. Then drive through the beautiful countryside of Pays de Caux to the start of today’s walk. Your trail gently descends through an oak forest and into an open landscape of pasture and gorse along the dramatic coastline of “La Manche”—the English Channel. You soon enjoy your first views of the towering cliffs and rock formations of Étretat, a favorite subject of Impressionist painter Claude Monet.
Follow the trail along the cliff tops toward the famous Manneporte rock arch, the Porte d’Aval, and the Aiguille, or “needle.” The 19th-century French author Guy de Maupassant spent much of his childhood in the small fishing and resort town of Étretat.
Upon returning to your hotel, take time to relax and perhaps indulge in a spa treatment or hammam (Turkish bath) before dinner on your own in Honfleur. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, ranging from gourmet establishments to local crêperies.
Lounges-sur-Mer Battery; .5 miles, easy. Omaha Beach to American Cemetery; 1.5 miles, easy
Today’s itinerary includes minimal walking, as the focus is on visiting the D-day beaches and the American Military Cemetery. Travel approximately two hours to the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer, where you meet a local historian who provides insight into the events of the D-day landings.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, walk along the sands of Omaha Beach to the American Military Cemetery, the final resting place of 9,387 American soldiers. Each grave is marked with either a Star of David or a white cross—this was the first American World War II cemetery established on European soil. Your leader shares context about the battle, explaining why the casualties at Omaha Beach were significantly higher than at other landing sites, as Allied soldiers had to run inland toward well-positioned German defenses on the ridge.
After this moving visit, travel a short distance to your home for the next two nights. This evening, enjoy a warm welcome and a delicious dinner at your historic château.
Today’s walk takes you to the coastal town of Arromanches, which played a vital role in the D-day landings. A short shuttle from the hotel returns you to the village of Longues-sur-Mer. From here, trace a scenic walking and biking path through green fields and along the coast before descending into Arromanches-les-Bains. It was here that Allied forces constructed one of their famous Mulberry harbors—portable, temporary structures that enabled the rapid transfer of troops and supplies. Remnants of these harbors are still visible at low tide.
Enjoy free time and lunch on your own. You may wish to visit the D-day Museum to learn more about the harbor and landings, or take a short hike (1 mile round trip) up to Churchill Cliff to view Arromanches 360, a circular theater featuring a powerful film about D-day and its aftermath, using a mix of wartime footage and modern images.
Rejoin your group and return to your countryside château with time to unwind. Later this afternoon, join your tour leaders for an optional walk from the hotel into the medieval center of Bayeux, or opt for the available shuttle. Once in town, you might explore Bayeux’s stunning cathedral, consecrated in 1077 in the presence of William the Conqueror, or visit the museum housing the famed 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry—a 220-foot-long embroidered account of the Battle of Hastings and William’s conquest of England. You may also choose to visit the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum.
Enjoy dinner on your own in town, or shuttle back to the hotel for a meal at the fine dining restaurant.
Note: The Bayeux Tapestry Museum will close on September 1, 2025, for renovations and is scheduled to reopen in 2027.
3 miles, easy to moderate and 2 miles, easy with moderate sections
Today’s itinerary takes you from Normandy into Brittany, beginning with a drive toward the Baie du Mont-St-Michel, famous for its dramatic tides. The journey offers panoramic views of the bay and the iconic, pyramid-shaped island monastery of Mont-St-Michel. Opposite this fantastical landmark lies Tombelaine Island, a protected sanctuary for nesting shell ducks, marine and brown seagulls, and white egrets.
After a scenic walk along the coast, continue to the monastery—one of the most impressive constructions of the Middle Ages, a quintessential symbol of northern France, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cross the causeway to the island, located just a half-mile offshore, and wind your way through cobbled streets to the top of the mount at the door of the Benedictine Abbey, which dates back to the 8th century. While the abbey’s origins are early, most of its current structures were built in the 11th century, with the main church façade added in the 12th century. Learn about the lives of the medieval monks and villagers, with special attention paid to the island’s remarkably preserved architecture.
Please note: The guided tour of the abbey includes many steps. If you prefer to skip it, you are welcome to explore the village’s narrow back streets and charming shops on your own.
Afterward, travel to your home for the next two nights: the medieval, fortified city of Saint-Malo in Brittany. Once home to French “corsair” privateers and Jacques Cartier—considered the first European explorer of Canada—Saint-Malo is now a popular seaside resort. Its long sandy beach and promenade lead to historic granite city walls. Your oceanfront hotel is ideally located for strolling to the promenade or Saint-Malo’s Old Town. After check-in, your leaders will provide recommendations for dinner.
Today’s walk takes place on the westernmost tip of the Baie du Mont-St-Michel, along the Pointe du Grouin—a windswept headland offering expansive views north to the Chausey Islands and west along the coast toward Saint-Malo. Fifteen miles to the east, Mont-St-Michel appears as a speck on the horizon. A German pillbox coastal fortification now serves as an ornithological observatory overlooking a bird sanctuary island. The coastal path winds through a series of tiny coves, some with small ports tucked within them.
Later this afternoon, stroll the ramparts of Saint-Malo past the mast-filled port, perhaps pausing to visit La Maison de Corsaire or the Grand Aquarium, which houses more than 600 species. Alternatively, relax by the hotel pool or book a spa treatment.
Tonight, celebrate the week’s adventures with a sumptuous farewell dinner in your hotel’s fine dining restaurant.
Set in a building that served as a hunting lodge for King Henry IV of France during the 16th century, the Hotel l’Echiquier Opera Paris has been reimagined as a modern retreat with an opulent décor inspired by the Roaring Twenties. The premier attractions of the Right Bank are within easy reach, yet the hotel itself offers a surprisingly tranquil respite amid this lively section of Paris. Enjoy attentive service and delicious cuisine at the Bar and Restaurant Le 38. Take advantage of the equipment in the fitness center, open 24/7 for your convenience. And relax in a cozy room designed to reflect the elegance of the early 20th century.
This charming hotel in the heart of Honfleur, just opposite Saint Catherine’s church, is a restored complex made up of a salt warehouse and three 16th-century houses. It features plush, individually decorated, non-airconditioned rooms and inviting common areas with warm colors and antiques. On-site amenities include a gourmet restaurant and a hammam type steam room.
Situated in the Calvados region of Normandy, this charming property—elegantly converted from an 18th-century château—is surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, including an English garden and centuries-old trees. Enjoy the hotel’s refined restaurant, fitness center, sauna, hot tub, and indoor swimming pool, which features sliding windows that open to stunning views. Guest rooms are decorated in classic French style and include cable/satellite television, air conditioning, an in-room safe, and complimentary WiFi.
This stylish and welcoming 4-star hotel on the oceanfront promenade of Saint Malo has plush, light-filled guest rooms in soft tones with high-quality fabrics throughout. The hotel’s décor is tastefully inspired by the city’s seafaring history. On site are a fine-dining, sea-view restaurant, bar and tea room, pool, spa with two treatment rooms (available upon request), pool with underwater jets, steam room, and solarium.
Located in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, a few steps from Gare de Montparnasse train station, this polished hotel offers classic rooms and access to Paris’ main attractions in just a few minutes by foot, bus, or metro. Marvel at one of the best views of the French capital from the rooftop terrace, and delight in views of the hotel gardens from the bright and airy restaurant. Your air-conditioned room has a private bath, LCD-screen satellite TV, minibar and safe. WiFi is available throughout the hotel, and an Internet terminal is also available in the lobby.
A Country Walkers representative will greet you at the airport to start your first day in Paris off right. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel, perfectly positioned for exploring the city at your leisure. Located on the Right Bank, your hotel is close to many beloved attractions and neighborhoods, including Montmartre, the Louvre and Tuileries, Le Marais, and Place de la Bastille.
Set in a building that served as a hunting lodge for King Henry IV of France during the 16th century, the Hotel l’Echiquier Opera Paris has been reimagined as a modern retreat with an opulent décor inspired by the Roaring Twenties. The premier attractions of the Right Bank are within easy reach, yet the hotel itself offers a surprisingly tranquil respite amid this lively section of Paris. Enjoy attentive service and delicious cuisine at the Bar and Restaurant Le 38. Take advantage of the equipment in the fitness center, open 24/7 for your convenience. And relax in a cozy room designed to reflect the elegance of the early 20th century.
After another included breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a full day of independent exploration, using our provided city information to uncover more of the area’s hidden gems and highlights.
Au revoir! After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation is provided to Charles de Gaulle International Airport based on your departure time.
Located in the 14th arrondissement of Paris, a few steps from Gare de Montparnasse train station, this polished hotel offers classic rooms and access to Paris’ main attractions in just a few minutes by foot, bus, or metro. Marvel at one of the best views of the French capital from the rooftop terrace, and delight in views of the hotel gardens from the bright and airy restaurant. Your air-conditioned room has a private bath, LCD-screen satellite TV, minibar and safe. WiFi is available throughout the hotel, and an Internet terminal is also available in the lobby.
I really enjoyed this experience. It was the first time I’ve done anything like this, so it was a bit of a stretch for me. I’m happy to say that it was worth it and I would do another one.
Our two guides were wonderful, knowledgeable, helpful experts. They provided such great additional information about where we were walking and what we were seeing, and plenty of historical, natural, and other factual information about the locations and the walks.
As a walker who loves to stop, take pictures, and soak in the scenery, I found this experience to be less oriented to that are more to the business of walking. Nothing wrong with that at all, but I went into it without fully realizing that it was focused on walking from point A to point B. I love to stop when I see something that takes my attention and grab a photo or simply soak up the experience and scenery. So that was eye-opening to me on our first two walks.
However, there WERE some opportunities to do so, generally.
Overall, I would rank this among one of the best experiences I’ve had despite my expectations vs. actuality.
We had perfect weather. The hotels were a mix of quaint and quintessential French establishments with one more modern one in the mix, and I loved them all. Meals were excellent when provided and, for those that weren’t, it offered a great opportunity to seek out new dining experiences … a welcome adventure each time.
Best part was getting outside Paris for a path less traveled. It was an amazing vacation!
Ohio, USA
France: Normandy & Brittany
WE HAD A NICE AMOUNT OF FREE TIME AND GUIDED TIME WITH 2 WONDERFUL GUIDES.
kevin, MAINE
France: Normandy & Brittany
Expert Local Leaders
Experience your destination like an insider with people who call it home.
Vero Marget
Born in Beauvais, north of Paris, Veronique Marget grew up spending a good deal of time on the coast, where her grandparents had a house on the cliffs of Normandy. Now living in Provence, Veronique has never tired of the many beautiful regions of France, so many known for their strong and unique culture and customs. Some of Vero’s many interests include knitting, sewing, gardening, calligraphy, ballet, bookbinding, and cooking for friends and family.
Corinne Jouin
Born in Rouen, Corinne Jouin has been working as a guide since 1994, including being certified as a hiking guide in the Chamonix Valley. In addition to fulfilling her career goal of working in the outdoors, she has traveled and lived abroad for part of her life, and especially enjoys returning to her roots to visit her family in Normandy & Brittany, where she boats along the Baie de Somme, bikes along the coast of Brittany, and hikes in Arromanches Bay with her husband and children. Originally trained as a graphic designer, she applies her creativity to the Swiss folk art of silhouette paper cutting, and also enjoys exploring the Alps and visiting historical sites throughout France with her family.
Claire Thioliere
A native of Chamonix, Claire Thiolière spent months during her youth vacationing in Normandy thanks to her parents’ passion for the local history of Honfleur, Mont Saint-Michel, and the Cotentin Peninsula. She also traveled extensively in her youth throughout Africa before returning to France where she received a Master’s degree in Geography and Geomorphology. She is a certified guide who has been leading people throughout the Alps for more than 25 years and has also led groups along the Norman coast when not sailing that same coast herself! An avid hiker and skier, Claire’s enthusiasm extends to the impressionist painters whose artistic movement was born in Le Havre, as well as French literature, architecture, and gastronomy.
Sophie Josse
Born and raised between Brittany and the Loire Valley. Sophie Josse attended university in Angers where she studied languages. With a goal of seeing the world, she has spent her adult life working in the travel industry in various capacities, including as a guide to English-speaking guests from around the world! When not leading trips, Sophie enjoys running, biking, and skiing with her husband.
Bruno Latulippe
Bruno Latulippe grew up in Canada and travelled the world after earning a degree in marketing and before settling down in France and marrying his wife, Sophie Josse, a fellow guide and native of Brittany. With over 20 years’ experience working in tourism, Bruno loves sharing his passion for history and culture with guests from around the world. When not on tour, you can usually find Bruno catching up on his reading, skiing, or riding his bike through the French countryside (with Sophie, of course!).
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Terrain Description for France: Normandy & Brittany
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