Normandy has an interesting history. It seems the Vikings invaded so often that France was forced to sign a treaty in 911 granting the land to them. Hence “North Man” became Normandy.

Note – I did not go to the typical tourist spot of the Normandy invasion, instead went to the village where Parisian’s spend time on weekends and followed a picturesque route up the Seine back to Paris.

History of Normandy

Honfleur is a Viking seaside town which is crawling with tourists, and a nice place for lunch and a stroll.
Honfleur link

Honfleur harbour

Normandy does not make wine – they make cider. I tried it and didn’t like it.

Notice the shrimp are served with their eyeballs

I chose the daily special crepe, which turned out to be ham, cheese and egg.

The other selection was mussels

The church and steeple were separated because it was believed the steeple would be more likely to be hit by lightening

The church was built with 2 boats

Still in Honfleur – this church is right on the harbor

Normandy beach

A “drive by” photo of one of many houses with thatched roofs

Following the river Siene back to Paris, we first stop at Pont Audemer – an adorable town with flags flying from all neighboring countries.

History of Pont Audemer, you will need to use translate

Pont Audemer

New age shop

Allianz is everywhere, even in cute Viking villages

The countryside was beautiful

Along the Seine

The next stop was Juieges, hoping to see that Abbey – however they just started closing earlier two days ago. These little towns have so much character and charm.

More information on Jumieges Abbey

Jumieges Tourist Center

What I could see of what was left of the Abbey

Ooozing with charm

The last stop of the day was the larger town of Rouen, in the Siene Valley. This is the spot where Joan of Arc was burned.

More info on Rouen

Even more info on Rouen

This is the actual square where Joan of Arc was burned

Rouen

An old castle in Rouen currently being used as a Prison

This church is being cleaned up nicely in Rouen