HONFLEUR BY THE SEA

VIEUX BASSIN (OLD HARBOR)

After one month in Paris, we decided to spend our last two weeks in Normandy and Brittany, France.  Our first stop was the picturesque port of Honfleur which is about two hours northeast of Paris on the English Channel.  It is centered around an old harbor called "Vieux Bassin" which was built in 1668 by Louis XIV.  The town itself dates back to the 13th century and  is one of the few left untouched by the bombing in 1944.  Walking around here is a step back in time. 


TYPICAL HONFLEUR HOME

We stayed at the Clos Vorin apartment located at 122 Rue Heute.  It is spacious and quiet with views toward the park and rooftops of the old town. It is a short walk to the water and the town center.  I would definitely recommend the top floor but not so sure about the first floor. 

CLOS VORIN APARTMENT
WE STAYED ON THE TOP FLOOR

The best walk was the mile up to Notre-Dame de Grace chapel which provided a beautiful view of the city.  (The young man at the tourist office recommended this to Ron without taking into account his age and the steep climb but it was worth it.)   Another interesting thing about this area are the tides that go our for a long distances even leaving some boats out of water.    It makes for interesting beach walks. Fortunately, during this time of the year the days are long (the sun rises about 5:30am and sets at 10:30pm) which somewhat compensates the rainy weather that seems to be inevitable in this area.


NOTRE-DAME DE GRACE CHURCH

HONFLEUR STREET

The town is known for giving inspiration to many artists, writers and musicians through the years.  It is still a popular place for artists and art galleries. We also made bus excursions to Deauville, Le Havre and Cabourg.    


PARK OF PERSONALITIES