This itinerary invites you to embark on a journey with friends. Whether you are passionate about history or curious about Norman heritage, set off on a unique adventure in the footsteps of Norman castles and the Impressionist legacy, and discover the program of the Normandy Impressionist Festival.
Stage 1
You can start your visit in Caen. The city was founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy and King of England, and it underwent significant reconstruction.
Please take a stroll through the historic center and visit the Church of Saint Nicholas, which is usually closed to the public, there you will see a plant creation by the Dutch artist Diana Scherer.
Caen Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in Europe and the house of the Museum of Fine Arts is a must see. There you can admire the permanent collection, which is free. It notably has a room entirely dedicated to Normandy and has paintings by Monet, Boudin, and other Impressionist artists. For this new edition of the festival, you can also come and discover the exhibition by artists Caroline Bouyer and Lise Duclaux.
To enjoy Caen's excellent restaurants, please head to the picturesque Vaugueux district.
Stage 2
Then go to Falaise, a town of artisans and merchants, the birthplace of William the Conqueror. Visit the Château Guillaume-le-Conquérant, which was one of the first stone castles to be built in Normandy. In Falaise, you can also experience the visual and sound installation La vague irrésolue – Un jardin sonore (The Unresolved Wave – A Sound Garden).
Stage 3
You can end your journey at the Mont-Saint-Michel, whose mount and bay are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
As part of the Normandy Impressionist Festival, the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey is hosting the Radiance of Spring by Cai Guo-Qiang.
