Relive the history of Puy du Fou.

On a stage more than fifty acres wide, we travel back in time, accompanied by a host of 1100 actors, with a cinema-quality soundtrack and a deluge of special effects.
Relive the glory days of Puy du Fou, from the middle ages to the Second World War.

More than two hours of emotion and seven hundred years of history go into a giant open-air show that has already attracted more than seven million spectators.

A wordsmith worth a thousand words.

Leonard Cohen is one of the titans of modern music. His first 1967 album, Songs of Leonard Cohen, was a revelation and he was quick to back it up with Songs from a Room in '69 and Songs of Love and Hate in '71.

These early tracks proved to the world that this performer was more than just a voice, he was an inspired lyricist. In the following decades, Leonard Cohen came out with a number of albums - most recently Blue Alert in 2006 and Live in London in 2009.

Ink worth its weight in gold.

Building on the success of the "Cartooning for Peace" foundation, the Caen memorial will be displaying a selection of works dealing with this powerful, universal theme. Cartoonists, illustrators and professionals in graphic arts were called upon to produce a number of works to explore the theme.

Organised for the first time in October 2006 at the UN headquarters, the event draws artists and illustrators from throughout the world to take part in an artistic melting pot unlike any other…

It's all fun and games!

The season begins with this games festival in which young and old are invited to play with wooden toys from around the world. There will be a giant chess set and board games to try out.

Events and expertise.

This fair offers the residents and visitors a festive, fun atmosphere at the same time as showcasing the skills of the farmers, merchants and craftsmen who will be exhibiting their products here. During the day, events and exhibitions make up the programme, while on the Saturday evening a dance will take place in the marquee (sign up through one of the exhibiting agents) which will bring together families and friends.

A year of special events and activities.

In 1860 the seaside resort of Deauville was born. To celebrate its 150th birthday this town in Normandy will host all kinds of events all throughout the year. With concerts, trade fairs, fêtes, theatre and dance, sporting events and so on there is plenty for everyone.
Special highlights include the New Year festivities, the Asian film festival, the Omnivore food festival, the festival of American cinema, and guided tours of interesting places in town.

Scenery to take your breath away.

These two challenges unite sporting prowess with humanitarian engagement, as they form part of the Virades de l'espoir campaign for cystic fibrosis awareness.
The marathon, run by competitors from all over France, is a qualifier for the French Championship. The route takes in stunning scenery, chateaux and canal locks on the way.
The 10k, also a qualifying race for the French Championship, maintains a fun atmosphere, with friends, colleagues and families running it together.

Seeing is believing…

The Voir, Savoir expo is in essence a study of the relationship between pedagogical content and graphic images… The core concept was to map out the usage of images throughout Western history, in particular their usage in educational contexts.

More than 300 documents will be on display and set up so that the visitor may admire them chronologically. From the first prints to our current image-saturated culture, learn the truth behind the expression "seeing is believing"…

A small historical building.

Although this small chapel is sometimes called Sainte-Anne chapel, is it consecrated to Saint Julien.
It is at the historical centre of the small village of Pouliguen. Listed in the Inventory of Historical Monuments, it was built in the 15th century and has simple, sober lines. Inside, several highly interesting works of art can be seen, such as painted statues or votives.

Norman cider.

What could be more natural when in Normandy than buying cider?
Discover cider and cider-related products made by Fournier Frères, several times medal-winners at the Concours Général Agricole de Paris.
Find out how cider is produced.

The thrill of the deep.

La Cité de la Mer, which opened on 29 April 2002, is a vast scientific, cultural and fun centre devoted to the immense riches of the oceans and oceanographic exploration.
Exceeding all expectations, the Cité welcomed its millionth visitor in July 2005.!
Encouraged by these visitor numbers, the Cité de la Mer is now launching a second extension phase.
The origins of the Cité de la Mer, which enjoys an enviable situation in the former Cherbourg trans-Atlantic passenger docks, were twofold: to revive an Art Deco masterpiece, the former trans-Atlantic passenger terminal, and to make the nuclear submarine Le Redoutable the biggest submarine open to the public in the world. Those aims have been achieved.
The gradual descent into the abyss, during a three-hour journey into a fault in the ocean floor, is organised according to two major themes:
The Submarine, with an introduction to the Redoutable, the biggest submarine open to the public anywhere in the world.
For 45 minutes, the voice of the Captain explains how a nuclear submarine works and what life onboard is like for its crew.

The Ocean, which concentrates on exploring and using the rich resources of the ocean, and which centres around one of the deepest aquariums in Europe (10.70m) containing over 3,500 fish.

Time-honoured knowhow.

The workshop exists to safeguard the knowhow handed down by the lace-makers of Bayeux from the 17th century.
The Conservatoire, a place to learn and perfect lace-making skills, keeps alive the technique of bobbin lace making.
Year-round exhibition, events and articles for sale.

A treat for book-lovers.

Old bindings, the smell of yellowed paper, out-of-print or obscure works, special editions, first editions, signed editions... Book markets are a goldmine for anyone with a taste for the written word. These are places where every reader, from the neophyte to the bookworm, can hope to stumble upon his heart's desire.

Art gallery and historical museum.

The art gallery and museum is divided into two sections:

- The Galerie d'Histoire
- The Galerie d'Art, featuring a selection of 18th and 19th century works on mythological, historical or religious themes and including both landscapes and portraits (C. Van Loo, J.-M. Nattier, N. Hallé). The collection of 20th century paintings offers a panorama of geometric abstract works, from Cubism to the present day, with works by A. Gleizes, G. Valmier, A. Herbin, F. Kupka, V. Vasarely, F. Morellet, M. Jouet, A. Nemours, J. Gorin, J. Dewasne, etc., illustrating all the major artistic movements of our time.

Get the taste of Angers!

At the very heart of the Val de Loire, the vineyards of Anjou and Saumur make up the third biggest wine-growing region of France. Their wide variety of soils and selected grape varietals, specially chosen for the mild climate of Anjou, produce a great diversity of wines.
With 28 Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée, the vineyards of Anjou and Saumur offer a full range of wines, both in colour and in flavour.
Nor are the Angevins short of ideas on how to present their regional specialities and local fare to best advantage: rillauds (small chunks of belly pork cooked in their own fat), sander in a beurre blanc sauce accompanied by a Savennières white wine, blue chocolates known as quernons d'Ardoises, or greengage pie and desserts flavoured with Cointreau. Choose your menu!
Every week, in every quarter of Angers, B>discover the fresh produce, love of fine food and wine, tradition and savoir-faire offered by professionals, artisans, producers and farmers..

All the civilisations in one museum.

Founded in 1832 and surrounded by a magnificent botanical garden, the museum invites visitors to discover a fascinating and original collection of archaeological and ethnographic exhibits from the 5 continents.
Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the one-time "cabinets of curiosities" to discover a fabulous collection of stuffed animals, fossils, minerals and exotic objects (rooms dedicated to Egypt, Asia, Oceania, Africa and America) or yet more treasures unearthed by archaeological digs in the region.

A giant preserved.

The Château de Fontaine-Henry is perched high over the rich green valley of the Mue.
Its dizzyingly high roofs top a richly sculpted building in the 15th and 16th century styles.
Follow the guide around the interior of the chateau and admire an outstanding collection of furniture and old masters. Children will enjoy the special activities laid on for them in the grounds, and the old-fashioned toys and games.

A 19th century church and later works.

Built to the plans of the architect Toutain, the Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours church was built in the second half of the 19th century, in 1883. This large building is surprising in its proportions and appearance. Behind a tall narrow facade, lies a church that is bathed in light.

Inside, do not miss the works of religious art which are shown there, such as the Flagellation tapestry, from the 15th century, and the wrought iron candle holder from the same period.

The thrill of a lifetime.

Are your kids tired of smog and concrete? Do you dream of giving them fresh air, old-fashioned fun and a sense of adventure?

Well look no further, your answer is right here: acrobatic tree-climbing activities in the thick of the forest! Here old and young will be able to swing, climb, scale and jump from one tree to the next. Each circuit is perfectly suited to a certain age-group and general fitness. Let the little ones take to the trees as children have done since time immemorial. Thrills to be expected.

The village church.

Listed as a Historic Monument since the 17 July 1926, the church towers and its high steeple towers above the small town of Branville.
This classical style church has a huge nave. Heavy buttresses ensure it is maintained and break up the sides, alternated with tall windows. A high steeple on the side of the church towers above the town.

A place of worship.

Built in 1862, the Saint-Sébastien church was built in the place of a chapel. It opened to parishioners in 1868, although the steeple and facade were finished in 1897. From the top of a hill, the church is imposing, with its shape and lines. The western facade has a large porch and features an oculus whilst the steeple is an original polygonal structure.

Home to King René.

Don't be overawed by the apparent austerity of this schist and limestone fortress with its 17 towers, built by a young Saint Louis on the frontiers of his kingdom in the 13th century.
Cross the drawbridge and enter the castle to discover the agreeable residence of the Dukes of Anjou, consisting of late Gothic buildings and gardens.

There are other wonders to be seen, including the extraordinary Tenture de l'Apocalypse, the largest surviving mediaeval tapestry (104 metres), the famous "mille-fleurs" tapestries or the tapestry of the Passion...

Granite and Baroque.

The church of Saint-Raymond, which is built completely from granite, the archetypal Breton stone, was built between the 15th and 18th century.
Although its consecrated name refers to cardinal Raymond Nonnat, it is also a reference to the Patron Saint of Audierne, saint Rumon. Before entering the building, admire the high Baroque style steeple. It was built in 1631. Several areas of the church are covered in sculptures of boats.

Caesar, its a Julius!

Also known as the Butte de César, the Tumiac Tumulus is, according to tradition, the place where Julius Caesar led the battle in 56 BC. Archaeological digs, which began in the 19th century, have found a closed cellar with engraved walls as well as hundreds of polished axes and approximately three hundred beads and pendants. These finds, which date back to the neolithic period, are a rare historic testimony to the past. Some of the objects are now in the Vannes museum.

Firemen: modern heroes.


The Ecole du Génie, where firemen are trained, has been an institution in Angers since 1945. With such history, it was only natural that a museum be set up to preserve this rich history: thus the Musée du Génie was born within the walls of the school itself.

With over 1 000 objects and documents presented in halls throughout the museum, you will understand exactly how their motto ("Fight, Build, Save") is at the core of every member's training and attitude.

Lest we forget.

In chronological order, the museum retraces the different stages in the history of the Second World War, from the exodus to the Liberation.
It stresses the primordial role played by the port of Cherbourg as a supply base for the Allied armies fighting to win back France.
The permanent collection has been reorganised and new displays created: prisoners of war, everyday life under the Occupation, and the victims of genocide. Whether this is your first visit or one of many, the Liberation Museum is well worth your attention.

A small parish chapel.

Built in the 16th century, the Notre-Dame-de-Recouvrance chapel is right next to the Saint-André church.
The clergy of Ploemel probably decided on the construction of this small chapel, as no records suggest that there was a wealthy sponsor. Entirely built from granite, the chapel was the product of donations from parishioners and local churchgoers. Dedicated to sailors, the Notre-Dame De Recouvrance chapel is a pilgrimage site, as shown by the votives on the walls.

From apples to cider.

Since 1932, the Cidrerie Marcel Viard has been producing traditional cider from local Norman cider apples. See how "Bayeux" cider is made: the orchard, the cellars, the packing room. The cider farm was the first to be liberated in France in June 1944.
It was designated a primary military target, to ensure supplies needed for the freshly-landed British troops.

Cholet's best-loved park.

The park was laid out in 1980 and includes provision for both physical activities (sports facilities, swimming pool) and relaxation (a tree-lined walk).

This local park is very popular with all age-groups, and the facilities provide something for everyone.

It serves as the focal point for a whole neighbourhood, a mixture of detached houses, blocks of flats and public buildings (sports college).

Dedicated to equine perfection.

Visit the famed Cadre Noir de Saumur, the National Horse-riding school of international repute, and delve into the world of high-level equestrian sports and activities. This unique establishment is loaded with history and will be open to visitors. Discover what happens backstage: the riding school (one of the biggest in Europe), the stables and prestigious saddlery. Man's greatest conquest, the almighty horse, leads a life fit for a king in the Cadre Noir de Saumur.

A theme park for all ages.

Located only 25 minutes from the Mont Saint-Michel, this theme park offers children a staggering array of activities and events…
Discover the "Fun" section of the park with its thirty or so activities such as the "Crazy Cars" or "Wall of Champions". During the summer season there is even a water-park where you can slip and slide and splash to your heart's content. The Chalet area is perfect for young adults or toddlers' parents, a place where they can play pool, bowling or table-football.

The undying myth…

The Knights of the Round Table, King Arthur, Merlin… These names are central to many a myth and storytale.

This unusual institution, the Centre de l'Imaginaire Arthurien, is dedicated to the myth of Arthur at every level, calling attention to any piece in any art form that connects to the mythology of King Arthur. Expect exhibitions, conferences and guided tours…

A commune tied to the sea.

Since as early as the Antiquity, the commune of Morgat has been turned to the sea. At first a mere sardine fishing port, Morgat became a favoured holiday destination in the 19th century, drawing bourgeois city-folk to the coast in search of peace and quiet. The city developed a great deal during this period and numerous bourgeois villas were raised there; the port was slowly transformed into a marina for sea-faring tourists.

Today still the port de Morgat welcomes leisure sailing enthusiasts and tourists by the busload. The fishing harbour has nevertheless maintained its authentic, traditional air and is a great place to get into fishing.

Visit the Château de Quintin and its permanent collections.

Two chateaux for the price of one in the same park, in the centre of the characterful town of Quintin. An unfinished 17th century chateau, listed as an historic monument, and an 18th century chateau, also listed.
The base of the 17th century chateau, the richly furnished apartments of the 18th century chateau, the former kitchens (including a granite kitchen-garden of extraordinary size), the permanent collections of china, glassware, silverware, trinkets, christening robes and fans are open all year round.

From the Middle Ages till the present day.

Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, the Halles du Marché are one of the more popular areas in Dives-sur-Mer; possibly one of the top attractions in the whole of Normandy. Made entirely from stone and wood, the structure is startlingly well preserved - furthermore its ingenious design ensures that even in summer the atmosphere is cool. These historic "Halles" host the weekly market to this day…

A very recent heritage.

After visiting the church of Saint-Thomas, built in the 13th century, do not miss the opportunity to discover the more modern architecture of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer church
. The town of Bénodet has a surprising religious heritage with this building from the 1960s which was inaugurated in 1968. Shaped as a rectangle, the church is topped with a large sloped roof and numerous abstract stained glass windows.

A bike, my kingdom for a bike!

March 23rd 2008 is the inauguration date for the new self-service bicycle-rental system organised by the Caen town hall: V'eol.
With over 40 parking stations throughout the city, a new transport system is available for locals and tourists alike. The service will be at your disposal 24/7, forever changing the workings of inner-city transportation. Not only will it reduce pollution, but users will be getting fitter at every ride!

V'eol parking stations are positioned throughout the city.

Between the town and the sea.

The tow path and the Capucins bridge, which join the quais with the Raoulic breakwater, were built during the second half of the 19th century. The path is built entirely from stone, the bridge is from wood and metal.
These places are greatly appreciated by tourists as well as the inhabitants of Audierne.

At the crossroads of the arts.

Housed since 1797 in the Logis Barrault (15th century) mansion, Angers' fine art gallery, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, reopened its doors in June 2004, after five years of restoration and renovation. Now bigger and more functional, its "Beaux-Arts" section features rich collections of paintings and sculptures from the 14th century to the present day.

A second section, "Histoire d'Angers", retraces the history of the town through archaeological exhibits and examples of art from Neolithic times to the present.
The museum also has a 550m² temporary exhibition space, which features contemporary artists and heritage exhibitions. A broad and varied cultural programme is also on offer (lectures, live shows, guided tours, etc.) encouraging cross-fertilisation between the arts and making works of art more approachable.

Town and sea.

The town's museum, the Seaside Museum, hosts a temporary exhibition every year, either on a theme or dedicated to one artist.

The permanent collections also retrace the history of Bénodet and its relationship with the sea. Nautical pleasure or sailing, those themes are discussed through objects and documents.

Tolysland = Toyland!

Swings, pools, slides and even a tour train! This is the kind of fun-filled cocktail you can expect to find at the Tolysland leisure centre in Tosny. Think of the great memories to be made in the ball-pits (with ball-cannons!), on slides or taking pony rides. And even if the weather isn't on your side, there is a whole range of indoor activities to keep you busy!

A unique collection of plants.

The positioning of the buildings, the rainwater pool in the centre and the view over the railway have shaped the composition of the park.

An alley links the reception terrace (a reminder of the squared gardens of the Middle Ages) to the main terrace (a vast open space at the foot of the former Blanchisserie buildings where the cloth was bleached), where the edges of the rainwater pool are cut to a gentle slope to accommodate the bleached cloth.

The surround is decorated with a series of floral scenes organised (over 1,080m²) by colour (red and pink, yellow and orange, green, blue). Masses of shrubs create patches of shade, especially where the "Sauvageau river" enters the museum. Contrary to certain ideas, the "simples" are grown at random (some of the plants concerned grow by the roadside or in the countryside).

Sea-lions steal the show!

Sealand, the aquarium in Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile, invites you on a journey to the oceans, both warm and cold.
The aquarium contains a wide range of marine flora and fauna, and also presents a sea-lion show that will delight all ages.

A total of 500,000 litres of sea-water, a 200 metre visit, 200 species and 1,000 animals just waiting to be marvelled at.

The lives of the Audierne fishermen.

The history of the sailors' hostel is in a way that of the town of Audierne.
When, at the beginning of the 20th century, Audierne was among the towns with the largest sardine fishing fleet, Jacques de Thézac opened a hostel for the town's fishermen. After a lengthy construction, the hostel was opened and soon became the centre of Audierne maritime life. Since the middle of last century, the hostel slowly lost its role. Nevertheless, it remains a symbol of Audierne.