The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France and Locunolé, Brittany

Are you looking for a memorable road trip in France? Look no further than the journey from Calais, Hauts-de-France to Locunolé, Brittany. This scenic route covers over 700km, passing through the heart of the country and offering a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Here are the highlights of this journey, including one midway point – St Manvieu Norrey 14.

Top Five Things to Do

Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lille

Lille is a beautiful city located in the north of France. It's renowned for its art, history, and culture, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts is a must-visit attraction. This popular museum is home to an extensive collection of art spanning from the 15th to the 20th century, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is the second-largest museum in France outside of Paris and is not to be missed.

Interesting fact: The museum's collections include works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Goya.

Explore the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in Bayeux

A masterpiece of Romanesque art, the Bayeux Tapestry is one of the most famous embroideries in the world and is often described as "the first comic strip." The tapestry depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Visitors to the Bayeux Tapestry Museum can view the entire tapestry, as well as exhibitions on the art of embroidery and the history of the tapestry.

Interesting fact: The tapestry is over 900 years old and is 230 feet long.

Relax on Omaha Beach in Normandy

Omaha Beach is one of the most iconic battlefields of World War II and was the site of the American D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. Today, Omaha Beach is a peaceful and beautiful place to visit. Visitors can walk along the beach and reflect on the sacrifices made by soldiers who fought and died here. The beach is also a popular spot for sunbathing, fishing, and swimming.

Interesting fact: The beach was nicknamed "Bloody Omaha" because of the high number of American casualties during the landing.

Wander through the Château de Chenonceau in the Loire Valley

One of the most beautiful châteaux in France, the Château de Chenonceau spans across the River Cher and is an architectural marvel. The castle has a rich history and has been the home of many powerful women throughout its existence, including Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers. Visitors can explore the castle's rooms and gardens, which are filled with stunning artworks and antiques.

Interesting fact: During World War I, the castle was used as a hospital and was an important crossing point for soldiers.

Visit the Standing Stones of Carnac in Brittany

The Standing Stones of Carnac are a breathtaking sight and one of the most famous megalithic monuments in the world. These ancient stones date back to 4500BC and are believed to have been used for ceremonies or astronomical observatories. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, visit the museum, or explore the surrounding countryside on foot or bike.

Interesting fact: There are over 3,000 standing stones in Carnac, making it the largest megalithic site in the world.

Conclusion

This road trip from Calais, Hauts-de-France to Locunolé, Brittany offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences. From world-class museums to scenic beaches and ancient stone monuments, there is something for everyone. The journey is over 700km in length but can be completed in around 10 days, depending on how much time you spend at each attraction. So why not jump in the car and explore everything this beautiful part of France has to offer?