Domaine de Litteau

Normandy’s known for its wartime history and WWII buffs have ample attractions to amble along to in the area, from the D-Day landing beaches to the military cemeteries for international soldiers. For an in-depth introduction to what happened in the area during the 1940s, take a guided boat tour around the Arromanches Mulberry harbour and Omaha beach (35 minutes’ drive), or witness the action on screen at Arromanches 360, a museum with a circular theatre combining archive film with modern images of Normandy. Another historic battle is commemorated in Bayeux (25 minutes) at Notre-Dame Cathedral, home to the 68-metre, 11th-century tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England in 1066. The town’s also worthy of a visit for wanders through the cobbled medieval centre. Kids couldn’t give a hoot about history? Head to the wide and sandy Omaha beach for a session with the bucket and spade; if mum or dad is hankering after a go on the green, the Omaha Beach Golf Club (25 minutes; open late March to late October) is a 27-hole course with dreamy views over the sea.