CHERBOURG, FRANCE

Following a drive from Honfleur through the heart of the Normandy countryside, we will reach the village of Le Breuil En Auge, where we shall visit the traditional distillery ‘Le Chateau du Breuil’.

Normandy is a land of picturesque half-timbered houses, lush green pastures and apple orchards. A land rich with culinary tradition based on its fine local products: butter, cream, world-famous cheeses and, of course, apples from which the brandy ‘calvados’ is made. Following a drive from Honfleur through the heart of the Normandy countryside, we will reach the village of Le Breuil En Auge, where we shall visit the traditional distillery ‘Le Chateau du Breuil’. This attractive slate-roofed chateau was built in the 16th and 17th centuries, and specialises in cider and calvados. Following a guided tour of the distillery and ageing cellars, we will be invited to a tasting of famous Normandy products such as the calvados (local apple brandy) and cider, as well as delicious cheeses including camembert served with traditional bread and butter. We will then reboard our coach and head back to Honfleur, to experience the tranquil charm of this perfectly preserved, 13th-century fishing village. During our walking tour we shall see the unique 17th-century harbour, ‘vieux bassin’. We pass the Governor’s House ‘La Lieutenance’ and the ancient gateway to the town, before visiting the lovely 15th-century Church of Sainte-Catherine – the largest wooden church in France with a separate belfry. The massive oak belfry is covered in chestnut, and stands apart from the church on a large foundation, which used to contain the bellringer’s dwelling. Sainte-Catherine Church is a rare example in Western Europe of a building constructed entirely of wood. After enjoying some free time to stroll through the quaint streets and browse in the interesting shops, we will head back to our awaiting ship. This tour involves approximately 2 ½ hours of walking, much of it in Honfleur, and includes cobblestone streets and steps to negotiate at the chateau.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES