Embark on a dream journey - discover the charm of Normandy
#2024Travel Review
For several years, I have dreamed of visiting the Normandy region in northern France. This land full of historical traces and natural wonders has always attracted me, a person who is passionate about travel. This year I finally got my wish and realized this dream, and I embarked on a journey to explore Normandy.
In the early morning, we took a train from Paris and traveled north along the winding railway line. The scenery outside the window gradually changes, from the bustling city to the quiet countryside, to the rough coastline. We are excited and looking forward to seeing the unique charm of Normandy.
Arriving at the first stop - Mont Saint-Michel, we were immediately attracted by this majestic island architecture. With the rise and fall of the tide, Mont Saint-Michel is either connected to the land or completely surrounded by sea water, forming a unique geographical landscape. We climbed up the narrow path and admired the grandeur and beauty of the building. On the observation deck at the top, we overlooked the vast sea and green islands around us, and couldn't help but marvel at the miraculous craftsmanship of nature.
Strolling along the ancient streets of Mont Saint-Michel, we felt a strong sense of history. It was once an important religious pilgrimage site and retains many medieval-style churches and monasteries. Under the guidance of the tour guide, we learned about the long history and cultural connotation of these buildings one by one. Behind every stone building, there seems to be a story that happened here.
After leaving Mont Saint-Michel, we came to the Normandy seaside near the English Channel. The natural scenery there is breathtaking - the pale cliffs stand proudly among the waves, guarding the sea like a natural castle. We walked on the soft beach, listened to the sound of waves hitting the rocks, and breathed deeply in the salty sea breeze. The natural beauty here is undoubtedly the most touching aspect of Normandy.
Afterwards, we headed to Etro Beach, which is located on the seaside. This is where the famous Normandy landings took place during World War II. We walked along the battlefield trail and couldn't help but be immersed in the atmosphere of history. In front of a commemorative sculpture, we remember the heroes who fought for freedom, and our hearts are filled with emotion. This place not only witnesses history, but is also an awe-inspiring holy place.
At lunch time, we came to a restaurant located in a small fishing village. Here, we tasted Normandy’s special seafood delicacies, such as fresh lobsters, oysters and catches. Paired with high-quality white wine produced by local wineries, the entire dining process is full of comfort and satisfaction. The soothing music and leisurely atmosphere allow us to be completely immersed in this leisurely time.
After dinner, we came to the famous Château de Sène in Normandy. This 14th-century castle stands on a high ground, overlooking the surrounding vast hills and pastures. We followed the guide, walked up the winding stairs of the castle, and finally arrived inside the castle. Under the guidance of the tour guide, we learned deeply about the long history here. From the chapel inlaid with stained glass to the vast castle courtyard, everything reveals a strong medieval style. Climbing to the top of the castle, we looked at the vast land and felt the weight of history.
Behind Château de Sène, there is an even more unforgettable attraction for me - Mont-Saint-Michel. This maritime monastery stands on a precipitous rock, appearing and disappearing as the tide rises. We slowly walked up the winding path and approached this magnificent building step by step. After reaching the top, we were shocked by the view before us - the boundless sea and the English Channel looming in the distance. We held each other's hands tightly and quietly admired the magnificence.
As the sun set, we headed to another famous attraction in Normandy - the village of Etmont. This is one of the locations used in France's famous Monet paintings and is famous for its unique white buildings. We wandered around the village, strolling through the winding alleys and admiring the exquisite houses and shops. We walked into a time-honored restaurant, tasted local wine and delicacies, and felt the rich rural atmosphere.
As night fell, we came to a square in the center of the city. There are various specialty shops here, including those selling handicrafts, chocolates, and local wines. We browsed these small shops in twos and threes, and were attracted by the exquisite items in front of us from time to time. In front of an antique store, we saw some very historical decorations and couldn't help but stop and admire them. The shop owner enthusiastically introduced us to the stories behind these antiques, which amazed us.
On our last day in Normandy, we came to the "Arbac Dance Museum" in Bayeux. This museum integrating history, art and culture allows us to gain an in-depth understanding of the unique local Yarbak dance tradition. The exhibits in the museum are all-encompassing, from costumes to musical instruments, all representing this unique dance art. Under the guidance of the tour guide, we seemed to travel through time and space, feeling the charm of Yabak dance.
This trip in Normandy is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable experiences in my life. This land that has left a profound mark on history not only has world-class natural landscapes, but also has a rich and unique cultural heritage. From majestic castles, to exquisite churches, to fascinating museums, every attraction seems to tell countless stories that happened here.
During my trip to Normandy, I also thought deeply about the sustainable development of this land. As a region with a long history, how does Normandy promote the sustainable development of the local economy while protecting its cultural heritage? And how does it balance the contradiction between tourism and environmental protection? These are worthy of our continued discussion.
I sincerely hope that I will have the opportunity to travel to Normandy again in the future to explore this charming land. Maybe next time I can discover more surprising sights and maybe have more in-depth communication with the locals. No matter what, this trip has become one of my most unforgettable memories, and it has also given me a deeper affection for this magical place.