< Introducing Western France

Western France

Western France is a region of majestic rivers, splendid coastlines and sumptuous gardens. Beach resorts and fishing ports line the coast, while the Loire Valley is famed for its Renaissance châteaux and gardens, built by kings and queens. William the Conqueror, Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, Leonardo da Vinci and Claude Monet are a few figures who have left their mark on the area’s rich array of historic towns.

A petit train outside Chartres Cathedral, the greatest Gothic cathedral in Europe

Highlights

Mont-St-Michel

Follow the footsteps of medieval pilgrims to this stunning granite abbey, surrounded by the sea during high tides (see Mont-St-Michel).

Château Royal de Blois

Visit one of the Loire Valley’s most beautiful châteaux and the fascinating Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin nearby (see Château Royal de Blois).

Les Machines de l’Île, Nantes

Ride the extraordinary mechanical elephant and watch the latest fantastic machines being built in the grand galleries of this workshop (see Les Machines de l’Île, Nantes).

The D-Day Beaches

Relive the biggest one-day invasion in history at the landing beaches and evocative museums and memorials. Take a look at the Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman Conquest of 1066 (see The D-Day Beaches).

Océanopolis, Brest

Travel through polar, temperate and tropical climates inhabited by marine animals (see Océanopolis, Brest).

Chartres Cathedral

Marvel at this Gothic masterpiece in near perfect condition, with its impressive stained glass and sculpture (see Chartres Cathedral).

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