WWII Normandy Tour
From Caen to St Mere l’ Eglise, embark on a WW2 memorial tour of Normandy, cycling along the beaches where the famous landings took place and through cities full of history.
Starting in Caen where you can visit the WWII Memorial, cycle the Calvados region to the famous Pegasus Memorial and Museum. The tour then takes you to Bayeux, famous for its 11th century tapestry. On the way there, you will stop in Arromanches where you can visit the Landing museum. Continue cycling along the coast, and you will get the chance to visit Omaha beach with the US Military cemetery, the Pointe du Hoc, Utah beach and other famous historical battle sites.
This tour is as beautiful as it is emotional.
BIKE INCLUDED
Region : Normandy
Duration : 6 Days / 5 Nights
Level :
or 
Type : On the way
Category : Biking
Trip : Self-guided
Activity : Hybrid
Dates : Starts any day
Click below to see hotels versions.
Day 1 : Arrive in Caen
Arrival in Caen - the main city of the region and home of the WWII Peace Memorial. Check in to your hotel and then free time of your own choosing.
A museum visit of the Caen Memorial is a highly informative and complete start of your tour. Orientation in the evening with an English speaking guide.
Accommodation : Hotel Le Dauphin - "Caen"
Accommodation : Hotel Le Dauphin - "Caen"
Day 2 : LOOP RIDE TO THE BEACHES OF NORMANDY
Option 1 : 25 Miles - 40 Km
Option 2 : 31 Miles - 50 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 80 Meters
Elevation gain 2 : 90 Meters
Cycle to Merville-Franceville-Plage sur Mer in the Calvados area and visit the Battery Museum. Then head on to Pegasus Bridge, originally named the Benouville Bridge. There, you can visit the Pegasus Memorial and museum, dedicated to the first liberators who arrived in Normandy on the night of 5th/6th June 1944.
Finally you will arrive in Ouistreham where, on Riva Bella you will have an overview on the landing area of Sword Beach. Here you can visit the Atlantic Wall Museum, inside the "Big Bunker", a former German headquarters. The Belvedere has an interesting orientation table and in front of the casino you can visit the Landing museum.
Return to Caen and overnight at the same hotel.
Accommodation : Hotel Le Dauphin - "Caen"
Accommodation : Hotel Le Dauphin - "Caen"
Day 3 : CYCLE CAEN TO BAYEUX
Distance 1 : 36 Miles - 58 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 349 Meters
Today you will ride from Caen to Bayeux. You will reach Arromanches & Gold Beach, where you can visit Arromanches 360, a circular theatre where The Price of Freedom is shown on nine screens. In the D-Day Landing Museum in Arromanches you will learn about the construction and operation of the artificial harbors assembled in front of Arromanches on the days following D-Day. You will finish in Bayeux, where you may take the opportunity to visit one of the many points of interest of this town of art.
The Bayeux Tapestry 70 m long and 50 cm high, completed in the 11th century- is unique in the world. Other visits include the recently re-opened Musee de la Bataille de Normandy and Memorial du General de Gaulle.
Accommodation : Le Lion D'or - "Bayeux"
Accommodation : Villa Lara - "Bayeux"
Day 4 : RIDE FROM BAYEUX TO SAINTE MARIE DU MONT
Distance 1 : 44 Miles - 70 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 336 Meters
A strong ride today from Bayeux to discover some of the most famous WWII sites in the area: Colleville-sur-Mer and Omaha beach. In Colleville take some time to visit the US Military cemetery, (172.5 acres) , the chapel and the memorial dedicated to the youth of America.
There is also a viewpoint which overlooks Omaha Beach. After you continue to ride to La Pointe du Hoc, immortalized in the movie The Longest Day and after on to Carentan and Utah beach.
Your hotel is near the town of St Marie du Mont.
Accommodation : Le Grand Hard - "Sainte Marie du Mont"
Accommodation : Le Grand Hard - "Sainte Marie du Mont"
Day 5 : Cycle to St Mere Eglise
Distance 1 : 30 Miles - 49 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 188 Meters
A loop tour from your hotel will first focus on the Utah Beach landings close to your hotel, then move north toward the point on the coast at Quineville then inland to St Mere Eglise, and a visit the famous battery of Crisbecq, Azeville and the very famous village of Ste Marie du Mont.
Accommodation : Le Grand Hard - "Sainte Marie du Mont"
Accommodation : Le Grand Hard - "Sainte Marie du Mont"
Day 6 : Departure Day
Departure Day After breakfast, you are free to depart at your leisure. Trains through Bayeux and on to Paris are possible.
Click below to see hotels versions.
Day : 1, 2
Le Dauphin is a charming hotel offering quiet rooms and a delightful restaurant. Located in the heart of William the Conqueror's ancient city it is easily accessible to many of the areas attractions. From Caen you can choose to visit the D-Day beaches or shop in the famous cities of Deauville and Honfleur.
Day : 3
The 3-star hotel Le Lion d'Or, member of Relais du Silence and Logis de France, is located in Bayeux town centre and boasts an elegant, family ambiance.This welcoming hotel, steeped in history and formerly the headquarters of the English press during the last World War, is situated a stone's throw away from the Musée de la Tapisserie (Tapestry Museum) and not far from the landing beaches.For your comfort our reception staff are at your service to ensure you enjoy a pleasant stay. We offer excellent hotel services, a full balanced breakfast, a lounge bar where you can relax and a gourmet restaurant which serves refined cuisine... We strive to ensure that our guests' stay in Normandy is one to remember.
Day : 4, 5
Welcome to Le Grand Hard, recreational resort for young and old in the bocage of the Cotentin peninsula, a few kilometers from D-Day 'Utah Beach'. Our hotel has 11 double rooms, one of which is fit for disabled people, and 5 duplex residences for 4 people. No matter which of our rooms you choose, all are cozy, tasteful and authentic. Our snug bar invites you either to relax in front of the open fire or to play a game of snooker. In the library you can loose track of time while reading one of the books from our collection. In the restaurant you will be indulged by the creativity of our chefs : each day a delicious 'Menu du chef' or offer you the daily fresh oysters from Utah Beach.
Day : 1, 2
Le Dauphin is a charming hotel offering quiet rooms and a delightful restaurant. Located in the heart of William the Conqueror's ancient city it is easily accessible to many of the areas attractions. From Caen you can choose to visit the D-Day beaches or shop in the famous cities of Deauville and Honfleur.
Day : 3
The Villa Lara is a 4 star brand new boutique hotel in the historic centre of Bayeux, nested in a very quiet and arbored square facing the 11th century majestuous cathedral and along the Aure River, the famous Bayeux Tapestry is 2 minutes away.The 28 elegantly appointed rooms in a French style with 8 different colour schemes, all the furniture is made by Moissonnier a well known company founded in 1885, its French cabinetmaking skills have been passed on down the generations, bringing the past to life with light touches... suggesting without imposing... breathing new life into traditions to make the present feel magical again, and creating jewellery for the hotel while cultivating an offbeat style: such is the spirit of Moissonnier today.
Day : 4, 5
Welcome to Le Grand Hard, recreational resort for young and old in the bocage of the Cotentin peninsula, a few kilometers from D-Day 'Utah Beach'. Our hotel has 11 double rooms, one of which is fit for disabled people, and 5 duplex residences for 4 people. No matter which of our rooms you choose, all are cozy, tasteful and authentic. Our snug bar invites you either to relax in front of the open fire or to play a game of snooker. In the library you can loose track of time while reading one of the books from our collection. In the restaurant you will be indulged by the creativity of our chefs : each day a delicious 'Menu du chef' or offer you the daily fresh oysters from Utah Beach.
Bikes available for your tour |
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The SCOTT SUB Sport 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty trekking geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 30 speed transmission, integrated front and rear lights, a custom Racktime carrier and compatibility with Snap'it accessories, this bike is begging to go on an adventure. Available in men and women versions. Available sizes : Men's M, L, XL ; Women's S, L
Hybrid bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 - ( or equivalent) INCLUDED 
The SCOTT EA-SUB Active 10 make getting around easier. With comfortable geometry, and ePowered by Bosch with a 400wh battery, those bikes are the ideal touring bike and are ready to provide many kilometers with no worries.
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff during your ride. Included with your bike rental : -Helmet -Lock -Hand pump -2 spare tubes -Rear pannier -Toolkit -Tire levers -Patch kit -1 souvenir water bottle -Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Electric assist bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 10 - ( or equivalent) with supplement (120€) 
The SCOTT Addict 20 was redesigned from the ground up with those longer days in mind. With new geometry that is less focused on racing and more on enduring, the Addict 20 will be your go to when you're looking to put the miles.
Saddle Bag Containing:
Road bike - Standard
SCOTT ADDICT 20 - ( or equivalent) with supplement (120€) 
The SCOTT Addict RC 20 Disc comes with all the great features of the Addict, but is equipped with disc brakes. A lightweight HMF Carbon frame and fork, Shimano Ultegra, Syncros components and Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes combine to create a lightning fast climber that performs at its best in ALL weather conditions. Saddle Bag Containing: • Toolkit • Tire levers • Patch kit • 2 spare tubes • 1 hand pump. • Helmet • 2 souvenir water bottles • Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Road bike - Performance
SCOTT ADDICT RC 20 DISC - ( or equivalent) with supplement (175€) 
Having racked up stage wins in the Tour de France, wins at Milan San Remo and Liege Bastogne Liege just to name a few, it is safe to say that the FOIL has made a name for itself in recent years. Available in S, M, L.
Road bike - Premium
SCOTT FOIL 10 - ( or equivalent) with supplement (250€) 
An exclusive geometry well adapted to the widest riding public. Our Tandem MTB will accompany you on long excursions or for more sporty rides. Traveling as a pair will become a new way for you to share your passion. Available in size : M, S Included with your bike rental :
Tandem bike - Standard
LAPIERRE TANDEM - ( or equivalent) with supplement (30€) |
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The characteristics of this bike are presented as an example and are not guaranteed Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee. |
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Hybrid bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 - ( or equivalent)
INCLUDED
The SCOTT SUB Sport 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty trekking geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 30 speed transmission, integrated front and rear lights, a custom Racktime carrier and compatibility with Snap'it accessories, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.
Available in men and women versions. Available sizes : Men's M, L, XL ; Women's S, L
- Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
- Included with your bike rental :
- Helmet
- Lock
- Hand pump
- 2 spare tubes
- Rear pannier
- Toolkit
- Tire levers
- Patch kit
- 1 souvenir water bottle
- Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Accessories
INCLUDED
GPS are included on most of our tours since 2008. We change the units every 2 years and always invest in the best models. Simple to use, easy to read, yet sophisticated devices they are available on all of our tours. The routes described in your roadbook are stored as tracks in the GPS unit. You simply have to follow the line shown on the GPS, and enjoy. 1 GPS for every 1-3 people
INCLUDED
Our roadbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. We have invested significant time and incorporated the feedback of our customers over many years (since 1997!) to make our roadbooks even better. Our roadbooks include: color maps, highlighted routes, touristic information, orientation points to reach hotels, and easy to follow step by step directions (cue-sheets). Please note that for custom itineraries you will not have cue sheets. Only maps and GPS routes.
INCLUDED
Our Travelbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. You will find information about the hotels, itinerary, regional informations...
Option 1: 25 Miles - 40 Km Elevation gain 1 : 80 Meters
Option 2: 31 Miles - 50 Km Elevation gain 2 : 90 Meters
Option 1: 36 Miles - 58 Km Elevation gain 1 : 349 Meters
Option 1: 44 Miles - 70 Km Elevation gain 1 : 336 Meters
Option 1: 30 Miles - 49 Km Elevation gain 1 : 188 Meters
Included
- 5 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
- Daily breakfast at each hotel, 2 dinners included (3 dinner included with the Standard package) .
- Hybrid bike rental included
- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed ROAD BOOK, including details maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
- 1 GPS for every 1-3 people
- All luggage transfers
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
What's not included
- Airfare to and from the trip
- Lodging before and after the trip
- Drinks
- Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.
Informations & Recommendations
Arrival city is Caen; from Paris St Lazare by train in 2 hours. Departure city Carentan, by train to Paris St Lazare in 2 hours 30min. Flights between Caen and Paris possible.
**We do not recommend taking this tour around the anniversary of D-Day, June 6th. Hotels fill up very far in advance, there is more traffic on the roads and some of the routes may be closed.
Tour rates
Contact our tour consultants for more information and an exact rate based upon your travel dates.
| Price from* & per person | Double occupancy | Single supplement (traveling with a group) | Solo traveler (traveling alone) |
| Standard | 1290 € | 230 € | 1930 € |
| Upgraded | 1450 € | 450 € | 2250 € |
Accessories
| Accessories | |
| GPS | Included |
| Biking Roadbook | Included |
| Travelbook | Included |
Bikes available
| Bikes available | Options per person |
| Hybrid Bike Rental | |
| Standard | Included |
| Road Bike Rental | |
| Standard | 120 € |
| Performance | 175 € |
| Premium | 250 € |
| Electric assist bike | |
| Standard | 120 € |
| Tandem Bike Rental | |
| Standard | 30 € |
Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.
United States
My son & i biked the WWII Normandy beaches over 3 days - super trip. Maggie at Discover France was terrific - her itinerary was perfect, the accommodations were nice & reasonably priced, and the logistics were seamless.
United States
We had an amazing time. The hotels were very nice and the French Cuisine was amazing. Particularly liked the Le Grand Hard. We had no problems other than the long day being exceptionally headwindy (and those much heavier than my bikes!) There was way too many museums and monuments - couldn’t see everything!!
P. Oshea
United States
We just wanted to say that we had a great time cycling in Normandy. We had no problems with the bikes or with the routes. There were actually more cycle lanes than we had expected and you had picked out plenty of quiet roads in other places. The hotels were also ideal. Have to give a mention to the food in the Lion d'Or in Bayeux, and also the owners of the Grand Hard hotel who were lovely.
S. Patrignani
United States
The owners were lovely and we enjoyed this place and the others very much. We did cut short the mileage a couple of days as there were so many interesting museums to see, but it was a fabulous trip. Thanks so much ! Cheers
United States
We are rally enjoying our ride. I had trouble with my first bike, and your organization had a replacement the next morning. Terrific service! So nothing was delayed. We like the hotels and have had terrific food. We would recommend your service to others (already have) and are considering another tour with you.
Casual : Beginners and occasional cyclists. Easiest tours we provide. Typically flatter terrain, no notable hills or anything of a steep gradient.
Hobby : Weekend riders. People with some cycling experience, rolling countryside, possible short climbs.
Active : Cyclists with experience on longer rides. Hilly terrain with reasonable amount of climbs and difficulty
Pro : Avid cyclists, ride every week and love long and challenging rides. Dream on riding the Tour de France cols.
Comparison chart : (15km/hrs)
| Average dist (miles) | Average dist (km) | Elevation max/day (m) | Average hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casual |
< 28 | < 45 | < 300m | 3-4 |
| Hobby |
18 - 35 | 30 - 55 | 300-550m | 3-5 |
| Active |
30 - 60 | 50 - 100 | 550-1000m | 4-6 |
| Pro |
> 60 | > 100 | > 1000m | > 5 |
Some of our tours can be in 2 different level, we have itinerary for both versions
Casual : Beginners and occasional hikers. Typically flatter terrain with just rolling hills.
Hobby : Weekend hikers. People with some experience hiking around trails.
Active : Hikers with experience on longer hikes. Hilly terrain with some steep gradients.
Pro : Randonneurs avides, randonnée chaque semaine et adore les longues et difficiles randonnées.
Comparison chart : (4km/hrs)
| Average dist (miles) | Average dist (km) | Elevation max/day (m) | Average hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casual |
< 6 | < 10 | < 150m | 2.5 |
| Hobby |
6 - 9 | 10 - 15 | 150-300m | 25-375 |
| Active |
9 - 11 | 11 - 18 | 300-450m | 3.75 - 4.5 |
| Pro |
> 11 | > 18 | > 450m | 4.5-6 |
Some of our tours can be in 2 different level, we have itinerary for both versions