The north coast of Normandy may have castles, seaside towns and beaches, but Lower Normandy has Cider. While alcohol and driving might not be a great mix (France has very strict rules on drink driving) following the winding 25 mile Route du Cidre through the sublime scenery of gently flowing meadows and squat apple orchards is inarguably one of the best ways to explore the area. Your designated driver might well feel left out as you sample the region’s finest produce in the sun filled courtyard of one of the many half-timbered farmhouses, but we are sure that you can placate them by stocking up a few bottles from each small, individual producer and carrying on the fun after you have parked up back at the hostel. Some of the cider masters only take visitors by appointment, but most are happy to welcome guests whatever the time to share their passion for the craft. Wherever you choose to visit our advice would be to make sure you stop by the medieval Château de Crèvecoeur-en-Auge.

This huge 325 kilometre route is much more enjoyable by car than it is by foot, but even Napoléon must have found himself smiling in wonder at the stunning mountain views as he traversed the trail exactly 200 years ago. The road traces the route taken by the former Emperor as he returned from exile, beginning at the coastal town of Golfe-Juan where he disembarked, through the Alps and ending at Grenoble. The drive combines stunning views with exciting twists and challenging hairpin turns as you pass through the winding mountain roads. The eagle statues which signpost the route are particularly fitting for the sense of freedom that the route provides. History buffs might be interested in completing the entire route end-to-end, but more casual sightseers should at least take time out to explore the nearby Les Gorges du Verdon, France’s very own Grand Canyon. You should also schedule in some time either side of the trip to enjoy the beautiful towns of Golfe-Juan and Grenoble, each with their own unique charms.

La Route NapoléonThe Cider Route La

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