Honfleur Et Son Vieux Bassin

The Impressionists' Mirror A true jewel of the Côte Fleurie, Honfleur revolves around its Old Port, an iconic marina framed by tall, narrow houses with granite and slate facades. This ancient city, the starting point for great expeditions to the New World, has retained its intact medieval and maritime charm. Its ever-changing light, characteristic of the Seine estuary, fascinated great painters such as Monet, Boudin, and Jonkind, making the town the cradle of Impressionism and a vibrant artistic center with its countless art galleries. Honfleur's architectural heritage is exceptional, marked by the omnipresence of wood, a legacy of its shipwrights. The highlight of a visit is the Church of Saint Catherine: unique of its kind, it is the largest church in France built entirely of wood, with its two naves shaped like inverted ship hulls. Strolling through the Enclos or Sainte-Catherine districts, you'll discover a maze of cobbled streets and half-timbered houses that tell the story of centuries of maritime and commercial history. For the palate, Honfleur is an ode to Norman flavors. Seafood takes center stage, with the famous brown shrimp (known locally as "sauterelle"), scallops, and sole, often served with an Isigny cream sauce. Apples also reign supreme, appearing as dry cider, perry, or the ancient Calvados. For a sweet treat, indulge in a caramelized Norman tart or some salted butter caramels, while enjoying the ambiance of the terraces lining the quays.