Impressions of the Seine & Paris

Le Havre is a captivating port city in Normandy, France where the English Channel meets the Seine River. Having evolved from a small fishing village into a bustling maritime hub, it is a blend of rich history, modern architecture, and stunning natural beauty. The city's historic roots are especially evident in landmarks such as the Graville Abbey, one of the oldest monuments in the area, and the impressive St. Joseph's Church, a modern architectural marvel designed by Auguste Perret.

For a sampling of Le Havre's natural beauty, the Parc de Rouelles offers lush green spaces perfect for picnics and leisurely walks, while the nearby cliffs of Etretat, just a short drive away, provide some of the most dramatic coastal views in Normandy. Or for a relaxing day by the sea, visitors can enjoy the Le Havre Beach, or Plage du Havre, one of the largest artificial beaches in France.

Le Havre's also boasts a cultural scene that is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary experiences. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Fête de la Mer, celebrating its maritime heritage with boat parades and seafood tastings, and the Le Havre en Lumière, a winter festival that transforms the city with dazzling light displays.

Le Havre is a captivating port city in Normandy, France where the English Channel meets the Seine River. Having evolved from a small fishing village into a bustling maritime hub, it is a blend of rich history, modern architecture, and stunning natural beauty. The city's historic roots are especially evident in landmarks such as the Graville Abbey, one of the oldest monuments in the area, and the impressive St. Joseph's Church, a modern architectural marvel designed by Auguste Perret.

For a sampling of Le Havre's natural beauty, the Parc de Rouelles offers lush green spaces perfect for picnics and leisurely walks, while the nearby cliffs of Etretat, just a short drive away, provide some of the most dramatic coastal views in Normandy. Or for a relaxing day by the sea, visitors can enjoy the Le Havre Beach, or Plage du Havre, one of the largest artificial beaches in France.

Le Havre's also boasts a cultural scene that is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary experiences. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Fête de la Mer, celebrating its maritime heritage with boat parades and seafood tastings, and the Le Havre en Lumière, a winter festival that transforms the city with dazzling light displays.

Le Havre is a captivating port city in Normandy, France where the English Channel meets the Seine River. Having evolved from a small fishing village into a bustling maritime hub, it is a blend of rich history, modern architecture, and stunning natural beauty. The city's historic roots are especially evident in landmarks such as the Graville Abbey, one of the oldest monuments in the area, and the impressive St. Joseph's Church, a modern architectural marvel designed by Auguste Perret.

For a sampling of Le Havre's natural beauty, the Parc de Rouelles offers lush green spaces perfect for picnics and leisurely walks, while the nearby cliffs of Etretat, just a short drive away, provide some of the most dramatic coastal views in Normandy. Or for a relaxing day by the sea, visitors can enjoy the Le Havre Beach, or Plage du Havre, one of the largest artificial beaches in France.

Le Havre's also boasts a cultural scene that is vibrant and diverse, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary experiences. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Fête de la Mer, celebrating its maritime heritage with boat parades and seafood tastings, and the Le Havre en Lumière, a winter festival that transforms the city with dazzling light displays.

Vernon, located in the picturesque Normandy region along the banks of the Seine River, is a charming town that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the quaint streets lined with half-timbered houses, some dating back to the 15th century, and marvel at the impressive Collegiale Notre-Dame, which showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The town is also home to the stunning Château de Bizy, a neoclassical estate full of beautiful gardens and fountains which are reminiscent of the grandeur of Versailles.

One of the most enchanting aspects of Vernon is its proximity to Giverny, the village where Claude Monet lived for over forty years and home to the most popular and most visited gardens in France. Art enthusiasts can visit the Musée Alphonse-Georges-Poulain in which houses works by Monet and other impressionist artists. With its rich history, artistic heritage, and scenic landscapes, Vernon is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the charm of Normandy.