The 6th of June 2024 will mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, an opportune time to reflect on the historic events that unfolded along the Normandy coast in the days that followed. D-Day stands as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of those who fought to liberate Europe from tyranny. We pay tribute to the heroes who embarked on this pivotal operation and explore the enduring legacy of D-Day.
Sites of remembrance
Embark on a poignant journey through the hallowed grounds where history was made. Explore the iconic landing sites such as Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach, and Sword Beach, each marked with tributes, memorials, and museums. Stand on the sands that bore witness to the courage of the Allied forces and gain a profound understanding of the challenges they faced as they fought to establish a foothold in Nazi-occupied Europe.
Interactive Map
Interactive Map of D-Day Memorials, Cemeteries, Sites and Museums in Normandy
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Use the filter to discover the historical sites of Normandy. Click on the 'MapHub' link at the bottom of the map to enlarge the map.
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Acts of remembrance
Remembering the valour
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the heroic tales of soldiers who landed on the beaches of Normandy. Discover the untold stories of bravery, resilience, and determination that shaped the outcome of World War II. Engage with historical artefacts, personal accounts, and multimedia exhibits that bring the experiences of the soldiers to life, allowing us to honour their sacrifices and keep their memory alive.
Participate in solemn ceremonies at various locations across Normandy. Pay your respects alongside dignitaries, veterans, and visitors from around the world as we remember the fallen and express our gratitude for the sacrifices made. The 80th-anniversary ceremonies will be particularly poignant as a reminder of the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom.
Educational programs and lectures
Enrich your understanding of the historical significance of D-Day through a series of educational programs and lectures. Renowned historians, experts, and eyewitnesses share their knowledge and insights, shedding light on the military strategies employed, the challenges faced, and the impact of D-Day on the course of World War II. Engage in thought-provoking discussions and gain a deeper appreciation for the bravery displayed by the soldiers.
Veterans reunite
D-Day Veterans
Veterans' reunions
The 80th anniversary presents a unique opportunity to bring together the surviving veterans of D-Day. With fewer than a thousand D-Day veterans still alive globally (an estimated 6 in the UK) and all of them well into their 90s, this gathering is an opportunity to witness their heartfelt reunions, hear their personal stories, and express gratitude for their service. These living legends provide a living link to history, and their presence serves as a reminder of the immense sacrifices made by an entire generation.
Exploring the Normandy region
Beyond the historical sites, take time to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Normandy region. From charming coastal towns to picturesque landscapes, there is much to discover. Sample delectable local cuisine, visit renowned museums, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals who have preserved the memory of D-Day for generations
The 80th anniversary of D-Day is a time for commemoration and an opportunity to ensure that the legacy of those who fought and fell on the beaches of Normandy remains etched in our collective memory.
D-Day Normandy camping
Selected Campsites in Normandy
We're predicting record numbers of visitors to the Normandy region in June 2024, so it pays to book well ahead. Below we've listed some of our favourite campsites in the region.
One hour from Paris, on the banks of the Seine and overlooked by the impressive remains of Château Gaillard (Richard Coeur de Lion), this attractive and spacious ten-hectare site will appeal to couples and young families. The site offers mobile units to rent and touring pitches in separate areas. These are either riverside or in a large central triangle, all very close to the Seine; all pitches are divided by low hedging, and some offer a degree of shade.
Set in the grounds of a château, Castel Camping le Château de Lez Eaux lies in a rural situation just off the main route south, under two hours from Cherbourg. Of the 122 touring pitches, all with electricity (10A, Europlug) and 87 with water and drainage. Most of the pitches are good-sized, partly separated by trees and shrubs on flat or slightly sloping, grassy ground overlooking Normandy farmland and a small fishing lake.
La Côte de Nacre is a large, popular commercial site with many facilities of high standards. It is an ideal holiday location for families. Two-thirds are given over to mobile homes (approx 357), and some tour operators are on the site. The 132 touring pitches are reasonable in size and condition, with 10A electricity, water and drainage. There is some hedging, a few trees and pleasant, well-cared-for flowerbeds.
Views of France's most famous river and the wooded hills opposite can be seen from Camping de la Seine, a small riverside campsite tucked away not far from Le Havre. This rural setting has 40 touring pitches, grassy and dotted with fruit trees. The campsite offers spa services, bike hire and a large grassy expanse where youngsters can run around and let off steam. The staff here are keen to ensure a warm welcome and can arrange trips to local attractions and activities. Local farmers occasionally bring fresh local produce to the site.
Camping de la Vée is a pleasant municipal site in the town of Bagnoles de l’Orne, and is open for a long season (March to November). The 246 pitches (228 for touring) are large and grassy and are grouped around the two well-maintained toilet blocks. All have 10A electricity. Some 51 hardstandings are available for motorhome users. On-site amenities include a snack bar with special meal offers in peak season, a play area and free WiFi. Several fully equipped mobile homes are available to rent.
A friendly, family site, l’Anse du Brick overlooks a picturesque bay on the northern tip of the Cotentin Peninsula, eight kilometres east of Cherbourg port. This quality site makes a pleasant night halt or an ideal longer stay destination for those not wishing to travel too far. Its pleasing location offers direct access to a small sandy beach and a woodland walk. This is a mature, terraced site with magnificent views from certain pitches. Tarmac roads lead to the 230 touring pitches (all with 10A electricity) which are level, separated and mostly well shaded by many trees, bushes and shrubs. There are also mobile homes for rent.
In order to create the most accurate map possible, we imported more than 30 historical maps and invasion plans into Google Earth.
The maps included the beachheads, sectors, and positions of the Allied fleet at H-Hour, along with the routes taken by the vessels and air support to reach the Normandy coast. The mapping was sourced from various libraries and museums, including the Imperial War Museum, Bodleian Library and online resources such as normandy1944.info and theddaystory.com
Juno and Sword Beach maps overlaid on Google Earth
The historical maps were aligned with modern satellite mapping using roads and other landmarks, such as churches which have remained unchanged since before the war. We traced the various routes and plotted the ships' locations on Google Earth before exporting the data and merging it with a list of museums, cemeteries and monuments sourced from the Normandy Tourism website.
Le Marqueval is a well established, lively, family site of 284 pitches (including 60 mobile homes), located close to the seaside town of Hautot-sur-Mer, just west of Dieppe and 1.2 km from the sea. This peaceful site has been developed around three small lakes (one unfenced, suitable for fishing) where you'll find plenty of greenery. It's an ideal starting point for those who wish to discover the Cote d'Albatre, go hiking on the GR21 or explore the rich heritage of the Seine-Maritime area of Normandy. When on-site, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including an outdoor water park comprising of two pools and a square metre paddling pool with a mushroom fountain and water spouts. During the season, the site organises karaoke sessions, boule competitions, fishing as well as evening meals and dance evenings.
Bellevue is located just west of Villers-sur-Mer with its sandy beach and nine and a half kilometres west of fashionable Deauville. It is ideally situated for cross-channel ferry ports and visiting the D-Day landing beaches.
Castel Camping Le Brévedent is a well-established, traditional site with 132 pitches (105 for touring units, 31 used by tour operators) set in the grounds of an elegant, 18th-century hunting pavilion. Pitches are around the fishing lake in the lower gardens (level) or the old orchard (gently sloping). All have 10A electricity.
You will receive a warm welcome at this small family-run site in quiet and picturesque countryside. Grouped around a converted farmstead, the 50 touring pitches (all with 6A electricity) are laid out in a manicured lawn garden, set in small groups separated by shrubs and flower borders. The reception is in the old farmhouse where plenty of tourist information is available. A bar and snug have been tastefully created in an outbuilding, and hot bar snacks are served here.
Camping le Point du Jour has a very French flavour and is an ideal location for family holidays as it has direct access to a beautiful sandy beach. It is becoming popular with British visitors who will receive a warm welcome from the owner and staff. There are around 40 pitches bordered by shrubs and hedging, including 30 occupied by mobile homes and chalets (ten for hire). There are some seasonal units, but most are removed for high season. All touring pitches have 10A electricity, including those on the sea-dyke, and 12 also have water and drainage. Fishing is possible from the beach, and small boats may be launched. Kite surfing is popular, and sailing and other watersports are possible further along the beach. Some noise in the evenings has recently been reported.
Le Picard campsite is located in Tournières, in the Calvados region in the heart of Normandy. The site is situated right in the centre of the village behind an old farmhouse. The site is small with only 55 grass pitches, 35 of which, with10 amp hook-up point, are available for touring units. Some with hardstanding and some with shade. Don't be put off that this site is small and basic the amenities here are very good with an outdoor heated swimming pool, children's playground and an on-site restaurant. There is a small lake near the site. The site is small and basic, but the service and quality of the amenities are excellent. You can also find a lake on site where you can fish, but you must return your catch to the water. The restaurant here is cosy with a simple menu but offers local cuisine for you to try. There is no on-site shop here, but fresh bread is delivered daily during the high season.
This welcoming, environmentally friendly, family-run site, close to Cherbourg and Caen, is situated just across the road from a long sandy beach. It is also close to Utah beach and is ideally located for those wishing to visit the many museums, landing beaches and remembrance gardens of WW2. On flat, quite open ground, the site has 102 good sized pitches on level grass, most with 6/10A electricity (Europlug). Eight extra large pitches are available, each with private sanitary facilities. Mature hedges separate the well-kept pitches, and the site is decorated with flowering shrubs.
This attractive and well maintained quiet, rural site is well laid out with 51 hedged touring pitches on level grass, 38 with 10A electricity, and 20 with water and wastewater connections also. There is a separate tent field for groups or ‘free’ camping. Fishing and watersports are possible as the site is positioned next to some large lakes. The River Risle runs close to the site too. In Pont-Audemer you will find shops, restaurants and a good swimming complex.
This is a pleasant family site with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, owned by the Commare family who have made a number of improvements in recent years, by adding a cover to the pool and rebuilding the main toilet block. The 90 grassy pitches (78 for tourers, all with 10A electricity) are attractively located in woodland. Most pitches have some shade at different times of the day.
Castel Camping le Château de Martragny is an attractive site in the parkland of a château. Close to D-Day beaches and Bayeux, it is also convenient for the ports of Caen and Cherbourg, and has the facilities and charm to encourage both long stays and stopovers. The pleasant lawns surrounding and approaching the château take 160 touring units, with electricity connections (10A, some longer leads required). Most pitches are divided by either a small hedge or a few trees. In contrast to the busyness of Bayeux, the de Chassey family ensure you can enjoy the peace and calm of their home when you enjoy a glass of wine in the lovely courtyard, surrounded by the warm ancient stonework.
The staff at this beautiful campsite offer a warm welcome to visitors. Situated on the edge of the little town of Pontorson, 9 km. from Mont Saint-Michel, the site has 152 pitches, including 118 for touring units. Most have 16A electricity and 24 really large pitches, some of which have water and drainage. Excellent private sanitary facilities are also available on 12 luxury pitches. The comfortable reception area incorporates a pleasant bar where breakfast is served. This opens onto the swimming pool terrace. The site is attractively laid out and includes a Japanese garden. Haliotis (which takes its name from a large shell) is next to the River Couesnon, and it is possible to walk, cycle and canoe along the river to Mont Saint-Michel, though an auberge at half-distance could provide a welcome break!
Le Grand Large is a well-established, quality family site with direct access to a long sandy beach within 20 km. drive of Cherbourg. It is a neat site with about 120 touring pitches divided and separated by hedging, giving an orderly, well-laid-out, attractive appearance. Almost all have electricity (10A Europlug), water and drainage. There are 50 mobile homes to rent in three separate areas.
L’Aiguille Creuse, conveniently close to Le Havre, is named after a rock, alleged to be hollow, near Etretat. The site is set back from the Côte d’Albâtre in the village of Les Loges, between Etretat and the fishing port of Fécamp. There are 135 good-sized grassy pitches, slightly sloping in parts and divided by neat hedges. Of these, 78 are for touring, all with 10A electricity and 14 with water and drainage.
The Huttopia group acquired camping Calvados-Normandie just before the 2017 season, and significant investment took place in 2018. The site is situated in the grounds of a Normandy château; however, there is no longer any access to the château itself. Huttopia have added chalets, cabins and tents for rent as well as 178 pitches which are dedicated to touring, most with electricity connections. They are large and marked out by trees at the corners, but with no dividing hedges. Reception is in a restored building, and the staff are efficient and friendly.
This is a peaceful, rural site close to the Normandy coast and the pretty harbour town of Honfleur, where you are assured of a friendly welcome from the new resident owners. There are around 130 pitches, 82 for tourers, all with 4/8/13A electricity. Some have shade, while others are more open. There are 30 mobile homes and a thatched cottage to rent. An open field houses tents and other units not requiring electricity. Well fenced streams, popular with young anglers, run through the site. Improvements have not compromised the French atmosphere, and this is an ideal base for exploring this part of Normandy.
Camping Port’land, now a mature site, lies on the western edge of the delightful little resort of Port-en-Bessin, one of Normandy’s busiest fishing ports. The 197 pitches are large and grassy with 151 for touring units, all with electricity (mainly 16A), water and wastewater, and 46 with hardstandings. There are 103 mobile homes for rent.
Rob has been involved in the leisure industry since completing a BTEC in Travel & Tourism in 1993. Previous roles have included the promotion of tourism in Yorkshire and running a motorcycle touring company in the Australian Outback.
He is the General Manager at Alan Rogers Travel Group, responsible for the ongoing development of the Alan Rogers website and the publication of the Alan Rogers Guides and 'Destinations' magazine.
Rob has owned several caravans, and he regularly travels with his wife and young daughter in their VW Transporter, complete with a Tentbox roof tent. A keen cycling fan, Rob can often be found in a field in Belgium during the 'Spring Classics' season.
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