Study Tour to Normandy

From the Norman invasion of England in 1066 to the scene of the 1944 Allied invasion that ended World War II, the region has been at the forefront of European history. On our Study Tour of the region, we were able to discover Normandy’s former and modern self, as well as its cultural heritage and gastronomical heritage.  

Friday: We had a delicious lunch at Brasserie Royale and then had the option to explore the start-up factory, Moho; visit Ganil, a national heavy-ion accelerator; or go on a guided tour of Caen’s medieval fortress. In the evening we were introduced to the major landmarks of Caen through a walking tour of the city.

Saturday: On our itinerary for this day were the Memorial de Caen (a museum for peace), the German cemetery, the American cemetery, and Omaha beach. I was not expecting the emotional weight of walking through these homages to 20th century history.

Sunday: We enjoyed lunch at the Norman Farm, La Ferme de Billy, followed by a tour of it’s orchards, woodlands, and 13th century chapel. The care that was put into the farm was felt through the food that we ate.