| Le Bec-Hellouin | A typical Norman style village with half timbered houses set among the orchards. The abbey founded in 1034 was once one of the most important religious sites in northern Europe. |
| Les Andelys | Much more ancient times are evoked by the hill-top Château Gaillard at Les Andelys where Richard the Lionheart held court (his heart is entombed in Rouen cathedral). Dominating any approach by land or along the Seine, it is said to have been captured by brave souls coming through the sewers. Always check if it’s open with the tourist office in the town below before making the climb! |
| Rouen | Claude Monet famously painted Rouen cathedral’s facade at almost every moment of the day – and after sipping a petit café in the shadow of the gothic masterpiece, one of these priceless canvasses can be examined at the Musée des Beaux Arts. |
| Honfleur | Honfleur is one of the most picturesque ports in France and as such is a big draw for tourists from across Europe. The Vieux Bassin where yachts now replace the smugglers’ boats is probably the most painted harbour in the world and the whole town is awash with galleries. Out of season it is sleepy and almost unspoilt. |
| Paris | Paris is only 159km from Brionne, an easy trip to make in a day. |
Things to do and places to visit in Normandy: