D-Day Beaches and the Battle of Normandy

Bring alive the momentous events of the world's biggest amphibious landing and the fierce fighting throughout Normandy as the Allies tried to establish a foothold on mainland Europe. 

This trip is a meander from Caen through the Calvados, Orne and Auge departments which saw most of the action in the summer of 1944. It makes for a good short excursion with plenty of time to stop and look at the sights and soak up the atmosphere and history. You don’t have to be a veteran to appreciate what went on here 75 years ago. You will see the place where the only Victoria Cross awarded on D Day was won; where Panzer ace Michael Wittman caused havoc on a British convoy; the smallest Commonwealth War Cemetery in France; and where a fleeing army desperately tried to escape. The hotels are all friendly and family run. Days 3 and 4 have some hills hence this trip is rated as moderate.

Accompanied by experienced battlefield guide, you will gain a unique insight into the D Day landings and the subsequent battle for Normandy whilst also enjoying some very fine cycling.

If you arrive by the overnight ferry from Portsmouth you will see Sword Beach to your right as you approach shore; on your left a couple of miles inland are the guns of the Merville Battery, which we will visit on day 5.

The ride above visits predominantly British and Canadian beaches and sights after the first day although we do visit the famous US cemetery at Omaha Beach and the Pointe du Hoc; if you would like to visit other sites we can tailor it accordingly. Similarly if you have a reason for visiting a specific site in Normandy please let us know and we will do our  very best to incorporate it in our tour.