Discover Normandy: Top Movies, TV Series and Books Set There

Normandy, a picturesque region in the north of France, boasts of a rich cinematic legacy that beautifully interlaces with its profound historical significance. This serene region has captured the hearts of filmmakers and authors alike, serving as the backdrop for numerous films, TV series, and books. Its stunning landscapes, gripping war stories, and enchanting architectural marvels have been immortalized in the world of celluloid and literature, making Normandy a dream destination for cinephiles and bibliophiles.

Famous Films Shot in Normandy

Normandy’s cinematic allure is undeniably captivating, having been the setting for several renowned films that have enthralled audiences worldwide. From the timeless D-Day chronicles to contemporary dramas, Normandy’s cinematic landscape is as diverse as its cultural tapestry. Here are some of the most famous films shot in Normandy that you should add to your watchlist before embarking on your cinematic journey:

1. “The Longest Day” (1962): This classic war film, based on Cornelius Ryan’s book of the same name, brings to life the events of D-Day, the pivotal World War II battle. Filmed on location in Normandy, the movie offers a realistic depiction of the historic landings on Normandy’s beaches.
2. “Saving Private Ryan” (1998): Steven Spielberg’s iconic war drama, featuring the D-Day invasion, utilized Normandy’s Omaha Beach for its harrowing opening sequence. The film’s realistic portrayal of the battle earned it critical acclaim.
3. “Atonement” (2007): Despite being set in Dunkirk, the gripping war sequences in this romantic drama were filmed on the beaches of Bray-Dunes in Normandy. The film’s long, continuous shot of the Dunkirk evacuation is a cinematic masterpiece.
4. “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg” (1964): This vibrant musical, set in the port city of Cherbourg in Normandy, is a love story told entirely through song. The city’s quaint streets and colorful buildings add a unique charm to the film.
5. “Normandy: The Great Crusade” (1994): This documentary film provides a comprehensive account of the Normandy invasion, featuring actual footage and interviews with veterans. The film offers a poignant insight into the region’s war-torn past.
6. “To Catch a Thief” (1955): Although primarily set in the French Riviera, Alfred Hitchcock’s classic crime thriller features key scenes shot in Normandy. The film’s gripping car chase on the winding Normandy roads is particularly memorable.

TV Shows Set in Normandy

The small screen has also embraced Normandy’s enchanting landscapes and rich history. Here are some notable TV shows set in Normandy that have captivated viewers with their intriguing narratives and stunning backdrops:

1. “Band of Brothers” (2001): This critically acclaimed miniseries, based on Stephen E. Ambrose’s book, depicts the experiences of a U.S. Army paratrooper company during World War II. Several episodes feature the Normandy invasion.
2. “War and Peace” (2016): The BBC adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s epic novel shot some of its scenes in Normandy, capturing the region’s historic charm.
3. “Les Misérables” (2018): This BBC miniseries, based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, filmed several scenes in Normandy’s Mont-Saint-Michel, an island commune known for its stunning abbey.
4. “Catherine the Great” (2019): This Sky Atlantic drama series, featuring Helen Mirren as the titular Russian empress, shot some of its scenes in Normandy’s Chí¢teau de Combourg.
5. “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (2017–present): The popular Amazon Prime series filmed its third season partially in Normandy, capturing the region’s idyllic charm.

Animated Films Set in Normandy

Normandy’s charm isn’t limited to live-action films and series. It has also served as an inspiration for a handful of animated films that have captured the imagination of both children and adults. Here are a few examples:

1. “The Triplets of Belleville” (2003): This French animated comedy film features the city of Belleville, a fictional location inspired by locales in Normandy.
2. “Valiant” (2005): This British animated film about World War II homing pigeons features several sequences inspired by the landscapes of Normandy.
3. “The Illusionist” (2010): This French-British animated film, set partially in a French coastal town, draws inspiration from Normandy’s scenic beauty.

Famous Books Set in Normandy

Normandy’s rich history and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. Here’s a selection of famous books set in Normandy, both classic and contemporary:

Classic Novels:

1. “Madame Bovary” by Gustave Flaubert: Set in the fictional town of Yonville in Normandy, this seminal work of French literature explores the life of Emma Bovary, a doctor’s wife who seeks escape from her monotonous life through extramarital affairs.
2. “The Diary of a Country Priest” by Georges Bernanos: This introspective novel, set in a small village in Normandy, recounts the life of a young, sickly priest as he struggles with his duties and faith.
3. “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens: Although primarily set in London and Paris, this classic novel opens with a gripping sequence in the coastal town of Treport in Normandy.

Contemporary Novels:

1. “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, set in the walled city of Saint-Malo in Normandy, tells the parallel stories of a blind French girl and a German boy during World War II.
2. “Suite Franí§aise” by Irí¨ne Némirovsky: This unfinished novel, set during the German occupation of France in World War II, features several scenes set in Normandy.
3. “Sarah’s Key” by Tatiana de Rosnay: This gripping novel alternates between past and present, and includes a significant part set in Normandy, where the protagonist delves into the secrets of her family’s past.

Exploring Normandy Filming Locations – Where to Go

To dive into the cinematic history of Normandy, there are several key locations you must visit. Here’s a curated list of must-visit places chosen by filmmakers to shoot films or set novels:

1. Omaha Beach: Featured in “Saving Private Ryan” and “The Longest Day”, this historic D-Day landing site is a must-visit for history and film buffs.
2. Mont-Saint-Michel: This island commune, featured in “Les Misérables”, is known for its stunning abbey and picturesque views.
3. Chí¢teau de Combourg: Visit this castle, featured in “Catherine the Great”, and take a step back in time.
4. Bray-Dunes: Walk along this beautiful beach, where the war sequences of “Atonement” were filmed.
5. City of Cherbourg: Explore the vibrant streets and colorful buildings of Cherbourg, featured prominently in “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg”.
6. City of Rouen: Walk along the cobblestone streets of Rouen, the setting for Flaubert’s “Madame Bovary”.
7. City of Saint-Malo: Explore the walled city of Saint-Malo, the setting for “All the Light We Cannot See”.

Where to Sleep in Normandy

Normandy offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some suggestions for both budget and luxury accommodations in Normandy:

Budget:

1. Hotel Le Bayeux: Located in the heart of Bayeux, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and is close to several historic sites.
2. Hotel De L’Europe: This affordable hotel in Rouen offers easy access to several filming locations and a comfortable stay.
3. Hotel Ibis Styles Caen Rives de l’Orne: This budget-friendly hotel in Caen offers modern rooms and is conveniently located near several tourist attractions.

Luxury:

1. Chí¢teau La Chenevií¨re: This luxury hotel in Port-en-Bessin offers elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a beautiful park, ensuring a memorable stay.
2. La Ferme Saint Simeon: This luxury hotel in Honfleur, known for its gourmet restaurant and spa, offers a relaxing stay with stunning views of the Seine estuary.
3. Hotel Barriere Le Normandy: This iconic hotel in Deauville, known for its Anglo-Norman architecture and gourmet restaurant, offers a lavish experience.

Where to Eat in Normandy

Normandy’s culinary scene is as diverse as its cultural tapestry. From traditional Norman cuisine to international flavors, the region offers a plethora of dining options. Here are some suggestions for both budget and luxury dining in Normandy:

Budget:

1. La Maison Bleue: Located in Rouen, this restaurant offers traditional Norman dishes at affordable prices.
2. Le P’tit Resto: This small restaurant in Bayeux offers a range of French dishes at budget-friendly prices.
3. La Rapée: This cozy restaurant in Giverny offers delicious French cuisine in a rustic setting.

Luxury:

1. Restaurant Gill: This 2-Michelin-star restaurant in Rouen offers gourmet French cuisine in an elegant setting.
2. La Ferme Saint Simeon: This gourmet restaurant in Honfleur is known for its innovative Norman cuisine and stunning views of the Seine estuary.
3. Restaurant Jean-Luc Tartarin: This 2-Michelin-star restaurant in Le Havre offers a fine dining experience with creative French dishes.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Normandy, here’s a comprehensive itinerary that will take you to the region’s most iconic filming locations:

Day 1: Omaha Beach & Bayeux

• Start your day at Omaha Beach, the historic D-Day landing site featured in “Saving Private Ryan” and “The Longest Day”.
• Visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial to pay respects to the American soldiers who lost their lives during the invasion.
• In the afternoon, explore the city of Bayeux, known for its famous tapestry and medieval architecture.
• Stay overnight at Hotel Le Bayeux.

Day 2: Mont-Saint-Michel & Saint-Malo

• Begin your day with a visit to Mont-Saint-Michel, featured in “Les Misérables”. Explore its stunning abbey and picturesque streets.
• In the afternoon, head to Saint-Malo, the walled city featured in “All the Light We Cannot See”.
• Stay overnight at Hotel France Chateaubriand in Saint-Malo.

Day 3: Cherbourg & Bray-Dunes

• Start your day in the vibrant city of Cherbourg, featured prominently in “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg”.
• In the afternoon, head to Bray-Dunes, where the war sequences of “Atonement” were filmed.
• Stay overnight at Hotel Des Dunes in Bray-Dunes.

Day 4: Rouen

• Spend your day exploring the city of Rouen, the setting for “Madame Bovary”. Visit its famous cathedral and the historic Joan of Arc Tower.
• Enjoy a meal at Restaurant Gill and stay overnight at Hotel De L’Europe.

Local Legends and Curiosities About Normandy’s Film Industry

Normandy’s film industry is steeped in fascinating legends and curiosities. For instance, the iconic Omaha Beach scene in “Saving Private Ryan” was filmed with such realism that it reportedly caused veterans to experience flashbacks. Also, the town of Sainte-Mí¨re-í‰glise, featured in “The Longest Day”, houses a dummy paratrooper hanging from its church steeple, commemorating the story of paratrooper John Steele whose parachute got snagged on the steeple on D-Day.

Another curiosity involves the town of Yvetot, which is mentioned in the song “Chez la mí¨re Antoine” in “The Umbrellas of Cherbourg”. Many fans of the film visit this town, expecting to find the eponymous café, only to discover that it doesn’t exist!

Hidden Gems in Normandy

While the iconic landmarks of Normandy often steal the spotlight, the region is also home to several lesser-known filming locations. Here are some hidden gems in Normandy that you might want to explore:

• Chí¢teau de Canisy: This castle, located near Saint-Lí´, has been a filming location for several French films and offers guided tours.
• Village of Beuvron-en-Auge: This picturesque village, known for its half-timbered houses, has been featured in several French films.
• Village of Veules-les-Roses: This charming seaside village, with its beautiful beach and the shortest river in France, has been the setting for several French TV series.

What to Pack for a Trip to Normandy

When packing for your film-themed trip to Normandy, consider the weather and activities you plan to engage in. Normandy’s weather is mild, but it can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack layers. Here are some packing essentials for your trip:

• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be exploring several filming locations on foot.
• Lightweight clothing: For warmer days, pack light clothing like t-shirts and shorts.
• Warm layers: For cooler evenings, pack a light jacket or sweater.
• Rain gear: An umbrella or raincoat is essential as Normandy can have sudden showers.
• Camera: To capture your cinematic journey.
• Notebook: To jot down your observations and experiences at each film location.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Normandy’s Filming Locations

Getting around Normandy’s filming locations is relatively easy, thanks to the region’s extensive transportation network:

• Train: The train is a convenient way to travel between major cities in Normandy. The regional TER trains offer frequent services.
• Bus: For shorter distances, local buses are a good option.
• Car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Many filming locations are in rural areas, which are best accessed by car.
• Bicycle: Normandy is known for its beautiful cycling routes. You can rent a bicycle to explore the region’s scenic landscapes.

Remember to carry a map of Normandy and learn a few basic French phrases to help you navigate. Enjoy your cinematic journey in Normandy!