A Timeless Classic in Every Sense of the Word!
Beautiful Bayeux is a city with a tremendous history and culture. Its cathedral, dates back to the 11th century with ties to William the Conqueror and is simply breathtaking. One of the things that I find most impressive and culturally endearing, especially in some of the smaller European communities is the commitment to respectful preservation of history and recognition of sacrifice. Bayeux is worthy of distinction and is a perfect place to enjoy a Normandy escape!
Grab a gelato or a drink, but take a walk!
A stroll around Old Town is a visual treat in itself, so time and your troubles seem to slip away in contemplation of the colors and textures surrounding you. Spend some time shopping and be sure to linger in the cafes to try regional fare, especially the galette (regional crepes) which is absolutely divine with smoked salmon and camembert!
The famous Bayeux Tapestry exceeds its reputation, but can easily be viewed in conjunction with the cathedral. If you can spend some time under the shade of the tree near the cathedral, it is spectacular, and estimated at 230 years old!
The people of Bayeux were friendly and welcoming, and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at the Le Lion D’Or Hotel, where there is a bit of history, as well, with a number a famous Americans having stayed there. What fun to enjoy a cocktail in the same lounge as President Eisenhower, John Wayne, and Tom Hanks to name a few?
I could easily lose myself in Bayeux completely outside of the D-Day Tours, but most Americans, truth be told come here out of respect for the historical triumph and tragedy that unfolded June 6th 1944. The stories are still being discovered and told by dedicated historians here and throughout the world. More time will need to be dedicated to this part of my visit, and I will save that for my next post!
