IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NORMAN TERROIR
Step off your cruise ship in Honfleur and journey into the heart of Normandy's legendary terroir. This exclusive private shore excursion takes you through the rolling hills of the Pays d'Auge, a pastoral paradise of apple orchards, dairy farms, and half-timbered manor houses that has defined Norman gastronomy for centuries.
From the art of Calvados distillation to the caves where Camembert, Livarot, and Pont-l'Évêque mature to perfection, this tour is a sensory celebration of one of France's most celebrated culinary regions. Wander through picture-postcard villages like Beuvron-en-Auge, ranked among France's most beautiful, and discover why Normandy's countryside has inspired artists and gourmands alike.
Gastronomic Highlights:
Calvados Distillery Experience
Visit a traditional cidre farm or Calvados distillery to witness the transformation of Norman apples into world-renowned spirits. Tour the oak barrel cellars where Calvados ages for years, and learn the centuries-old techniques that distinguish fine apple brandy. Tastings include cidre, pommeau, and aged Calvados.
Artisan Cheese Tasting
Normandy produces some of France's most iconic cheeses. Sample creamy Camembert from its birthplace, pungent Livarot with its distinctive orange rind, and the square Pont-l'Évêque, oldest of Norman cheeses. Learn about AOC regulations and traditional affinage techniques from local producers.
Beuvron-en-Auge Village
Explore one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France." This enchanting hamlet of colorful half-timbered houses surrounding a medieval market hall epitomizes Norman architectural charm. Browse artisan shops, photograph flower-laden facades, and soak in the timeless atmosphere.
Cruise-Specific Benefits:
Guaranteed Ship Return
Your peace of mind is paramount. We meticulously plan timing to ensure you return to Honfleur port well before your ship's departure. Direct communication throughout keeps you informed and relaxed.
Portside Pickup
Your driver meets you directly at the Honfleur cruise terminal as you disembark. No searching for meeting points - your Norman countryside adventure begins immediately.
What's Included:
- Private pickup at Honfleur cruise terminal
- Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle throughout
- Calvados distillery or cidre farm visit with tastings
- Norman cheese tasting (Camembert, Livarot, Pont-l'Évêque)
- Visit to Beuvron-en-Auge village
- English-speaking driver or licensed driver-guide
- Guaranteed punctual return to your cruise ship
Why Choose This Shore Excursion:
- Authentic Norman terroir experience unavailable on large bus tours
- Direct access to family-run producers and artisans
- Flexible pace adapted to your interests
- Intimate groups - personalized attention guaranteed
- 17+ years of local expertise in Normandy
Sample Itinerary
This schedule adapts to your ship's port times and your interests. We can adjust the order and duration of stops to suit your preferences.
- 9:00 AM
Pickup at Honfleur Cruise Terminal
Your private driver greets you as you step ashore. Brief introduction to the day's journey through the Pays d'Auge before departing into the lush Norman countryside.
- 9:30 AM
Calvados Distillery or Cidre Farm
Arrive at a traditional producer to discover the art of Norman apple spirits. Tour the orchards, press room, and aging cellars. Learn the distinction between cidre, pommeau, and Calvados during a guided tasting of these amber treasures.
- 10:45 AM
Norman Cheese Experience
Visit a fromagerie or affineur to sample Normandy's triumvirate of great cheeses. Taste creamy Camembert, robust Livarot (the "Colonel" for its orange stripes), and venerable Pont-l'Évêque. Learn about AOC traditions and the terroir that makes these cheeses unique.
- 11:30 AM
Beuvron-en-Auge Village
Stroll through this gem of Norman architecture, officially designated one of France's most beautiful villages. Admire the flower-bedecked half-timbered houses, the central market hall, and browse artisan boutiques. Perfect setting for photographs and a coffee break.
- 12:30 PM
Scenic Drive & Return to Honfleur
Leisurely drive back through the bucolic Pays d'Auge landscape, passing manor houses, orchards, and grazing herds. Arrive at Honfleur cruise terminal with ample time before your ship's departure.
Enhance Your Shore Excursion
Customize your Norman countryside experience with these optional additions:
Traditional Norman Lunch
Extend to a full-day excursion with a sit-down lunch at a countryside auberge. Savor regional specialties like duck à la Normande, tarte aux pommes, and trou Normand (Calvados palate cleanser). +2 hours
Château de Crèvecœur
Add a visit to this beautifully preserved medieval manor complex with moat, dovecote, and museum of Norman rural life. Fascinating insight into regional history. +1 hour
Lisieux & Saint Thérèse
Visit the pilgrimage town of Lisieux with its impressive basilica dedicated to Saint Thérèse, one of France's most visited religious sites. +1.5 hours
Haras du Pin (The "Versailles of Horses")
For equine enthusiasts, visit France's prestigious national stud farm with its grand 18th-century architecture and purebred horses. +2 hours
Full-Day Options
If your ship has extended port hours, we can combine the countryside gastronomy experience with other Normandy highlights like the Bayeux Tapestry or D-Day beaches. Contact us for a customized full-day itinerary.
Outstanding (Based on 24 reviews)
Guests rave about the authentic tastings, charming villages, and personalized service of this Norman terroir experience.
GALLERY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GASTRONOMY TOUR INFORMATION
Common questions about our Normandy countryside shore excursions from Honfleur. Don't see your question? Contact us!
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Medieval Rouen & Cathedral
Explore Joan of Arc's city with its magnificent Gothic cathedral and medieval quarter.
TASTE THE BEST OF NORMANDY
BOOK YOUR COUNTRYSIDE GASTRONOMY TOUR
Limited availability with our partner producers - Reserve your private tasting experience today
Questions? Contact us at bonjour@bellidays.com or via WhatsApp
Guest Reviews
Sandra & Tom B.
September 2024"This was the perfect shore excursion for foodies! The Calvados tasting was educational and delicious, the cheeses were incredible (we bought some to take back!), and Beuvron-en-Auge was like stepping into a fairy tale. Belinda's knowledge of the region made it special."
Claire D.
August 2024"After days of historical sites, this gastronomic tour was a wonderful change of pace. The countryside was gorgeous, the tastings generous, and we loved meeting the local producers. So much better than a crowded bus tour to yet another monument!"
The Morrison Family
July 2024"We added this tour as something different and it became a cruise highlight! Even our teenagers loved the Calvados distillery visit and the charming village. Great pacing, excellent tastings, and we were back to the ship with time to spare."