Honfleur is in Normandy, in the historic Calvados area near the estuary of the Seine River.  It has a rich and varied history.  Occupied by the Romans, conquered by the Vikings, ownership has been disputed by English and French kings.  It is a seaport town famous as the jumping off point by Champlain for his expedition to Quebec, Canada. 

It’s a lovely drive from Paris.  Train service goes into the Deauville/Trouville station only a 10 minute taxi or bus ride away.

The Saint Catherine District of Honfleur is picturesque with most of the 17th century wooden framed Norman houses still standing.  You will see the evidence of Honfleur’s rich seafaring history.  The narrow and winding passageways were occupied by mariners, shipowners, merchants, fisherman, and tradesmen. 

The churches also reflect Honfleur’s maritime history.   In Chapelle Notre Dame de Grace, for instance, the chapel was built in execution of a vow made during a shipwreck by Richard, the second Duke of Normandy.   It is filled with symbols of a life at sea.

The beauty of Honfleur has hosted the great painters Monet, Boudin, Jongkind, Millet and Courbet.  Honfleur is the birthplace of Impressionism.

And what about the wonderful foods of Honfleur?  Enjoy the wonderful and rich dairy products.   The butter, milk and cheeses have a deep flavor that cannot be found from a modern supermarket.     Calvados, the apple brandy, originates in this area.   The shrimp, sole, scallop and seafood dishes are the specialty of Honfleur.

 A relaxing trip to Honfleur is a wonderful and relaxing diversion from a trip to Paris.