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Normandy Brittany and The Loire Valley
A 10-Day Insight Tours tour starting from $2,375
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| Starting Price: | $2,375 |  |
| Tour Length: | 10 Days | |
| Countries Visited: | France | |
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Cities Visited: This is an evenly paced tour with three two-night stays in Mont St Michel, Loire Valley and Paris, plus one overnight stay in seaside Trouville. Travelling days have interesting stops en route with great photo opportunities. |
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Included Premium Highlights
- Paris really glitters at night - become aquainted with the French capital on an illuminations tour
- Visit the immense palace and formal gardens of Versailles
- Visit the Invasion Landings' Museum at Arromanches
- Pay your respects at the American Military Cemetery of St Laurent and hear tales of courage and valour at the Rangers' memorial at Pointe du Hoc
- Visit the Château d'Azay le Rideau, still surrounded by its moat
- Visit the Château de Villandry and its beautifully restored Renaissance gardens
- See the main sights of Paris from a unique perspective on your leisurely Seine cruise
Included Personal Insights
- The markets in France are world famous - enjoy a guided insight into everyday life in Rouen
- Enjoy a short group tutorial on the wines that complement your evening meal in the Loire Valley
Included Additional Excursions & Sights
- Visit Rouen Cathedral and Place du Vieux-Marche, where Joan of Arc met her untimely death
- Drive along the D-Day landing beaches and see the remains of the Mulberry Harbor
- Enjoy a guided tour through the narrow cobbled streets of Mont St Michel
- Follow the 'Emerald Coast' to the massively fortified port of St Malo
- Sample some of the local wine of the Loire at Saumur
- See the imposing châteaux of Saumur, Angers and Usse.
- Visit Chartres Cathedral, famous for its stained glass windows
- In Paris - see the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre, Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe
Included First Class Services
- Escorted by a professional Tour Director
- Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard restroom
- Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
- Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
- Airport Shuttle arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 10
Included Quality Dining
- Highlight Dinner of local cuisine and wine in the Loire Valley (HD)
- 8 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 2 three-course table d'hote Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
Day 1 - DEPART USA
Overnight flight.
Day 2 - PARIS AT LEISURE
Welcome to Paris! On arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport, your airport shuttle service leaves for the tour hotel at 08:30, 11:00 & 13:30. After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy this fabulous city, with its grand boulevards and world famous landmarks. Later, meet your Tour Director and fellow passengers for a Welcome Drink, followed by a sparkling illuminations tour of the capital - the perfect introduction to Paris.
Hotel: Pullman Bercy
Day 3 - PARIS - ROUEN - TROUVILLE
Travel to elegant Versailles to visit the immense palace built for the Sun King, Louis XIV. Your guide leads you through the sumptuous royal apartments and there is time to take a stroll in the fine formal gardens. Continue to Rouen, capital of the ancient Duchy of Normandy. See the cathedral so wonderfully painted by Monet, and the spot where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. You also get an insight into Rouen's famous markets - a paradise for gastronomes, bustling with local merchants and craftsmen. Your hotel tonight is in the charming seaside resort of Trouville. Consider a scenic drive through the Normandy orchards to learn the secrets of calvados making and visit the port of Honfleur?
Hotel: Le Beach. (BB)
Day 4 - TROUVILLE - ARROMANCHES - PONTORSON
There are poignant reminders of the Second World War as you drive along some of the beaches of the D-Day landings, including Sword, Juno and Gold. At Arromanches visit the Invasion Landings' Museum and see the remnants of the artificial port, Mulberry B, which remain in the bay. Continue on to Omaha Beach to visit the American Military Cemetery of St Laurent. Afterwards, follow the route of the Rangers depicted in Saving Private Ryan and visit the bunkers and the Rangers' Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Continue southwards to your hotel near Mont St Michel.
Hotel: Best Western Montgomery (BB,D)
Day 5 - MONT ST MICHEL & ST MALO EXCURSION
A locally guided tour of Mont St Michel takes you to the hill-top abbey surrounded by sea. The first structure, a simple oratory, was built here in the 8th century, and was subsequently expanded and enhanced over the centuries. The abbey's increasing fame attracted pilgrims and, by medieval times, a 'ville basse' had developed, with shops and guest houses. Enjoy an insight into the distinctive Breton lifestyle as you head for the Emerald Coast and the magnificent fortified port of St Malo, where Jacques Cartier is buried. Take time to walk along the ramparts and explore before returning to your hotel. (BB,D)
Day 6 - PONTORSON - LOIRE VALLEY
Drive south to Brittany and follow the valley of the Loire, passing the mighty moated castle at Angers. Cross the Loire at Saumur, where you can sample some of the local wine. Drive quietly past the sleeping beauty château at Usse en route to the beautiful Château de Rochecotte, once the home of Talleyrand, and yours for the next two nights. Enjoy a Highlight dinner and a short group tutorial on the wines that complement your evening meal at the hotel.
Hotel: Château de Rochecotte. (BB,HD)
Day 7 - CHÂTEAU COUNTRY EXCURSION
Stop at the castle of Azay le Rideau, once the home of a King's minister, and still surrounded by its moat. Visit the apartments and take time to wander in the town. Then it's on to the privately owned château of Villandry, sometimes called the 'Jewel of the Loire', to visit the apartments and the beautifully restored Renaissance gardens. Don't miss the water garden, ornamental garden and kitchen garden - a stunning display of plants, fruits and vegetables designed in the 16th century. From here return to your own château. (BB)
Day 8 - LOIRE VALLEY - PARIS
On a drive through the vast wheat fields of La Beauce, see the impressive cathedral at Chartres looming on the horizon. Stop to marvel at the beautiful stained glass rose window inside this famous cathedral, built on a sacred site. Return to 'the city of light', Paris, for a two-night stay. In the afternoon, there is time to explore at your own pace: relax in a Parisian cafe, window-shop in the elegant boutiques or visit Montmartre, with its street artists and the Sacre Coeur Basilica nearby. As night falls, consider indulging in the excitement and glamour of a French cabaret, complete with can-can.
Hotel: Pullman Bercy (BB)
Day 9 - PARIS SIGHTSEEING
A Parisian guide introduces you to all the fabulous sights: see the 13th century Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, with its tale of Quasimodo, hunchback of Notre Dame; drive through the courtyard of the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde and along the Champs Élysees to the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. Now a relaxing Seine River cruise through the centre of the city provides an unusual "insight" into Paris. The afternoon is at leisure: perhaps admire the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, buy last-minute presents in famous department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps,
or celebrate with a farewell dinner. (BB)
Day 10 - RETURN TO USA
Your French experience ends after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 & 11:00. (BB)
Don't miss our current specials: | ||||
Touring Date |
Land Only |
Land + Air |
Single (Land Only) |
Single (Land + Air) |
8/6/2010 - 8/15/2010 |
$2,375 |
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8/13/2010 - 8/22/2010 |
$2,375 |
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8/20/2010 - 8/29/2010 |
$2,375 |
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8/27/2010 - 9/5/2010 |
$2,399 |
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9/3/2010 - 9/12/2010 |
$2,425 |
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9/10/2010 - 9/19/2010 |
$2,425 |
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9/17/2010 - 9/26/2010 |
$2,425 |
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9/24/2010 - 10/3/2010 |
$2,425 |
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10/1/2010 - 10/10/2010 |
$2,425 |
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10/8/2010 - 10/17/2010 |
$2,425 |
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Airfare Disclaimer Documents |
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Included Premium Highlights
- Paris really glitters at night - become aquainted with the French capital on an illuminations tour
- Visit the immense palace and formal gardens of Versailles
- Visit the Invasion Landings' Museum at Arromanches
- Pay your respects at the American Military Cemetery of St Laurent and hear tales of courage and valour at the Rangers' memorial at Pointe du Hoc
- Visit the Château d'Azay le Rideau, still surrounded by its moat
- Visit the Château de Villandry and its beautifully restored Renaissance gardens
- See the main sights of Paris from a unique perspective on your leisurely Seine cruise
Included Personal Insights
- The markets in France are world famous - enjoy a guided insight into everyday life in Rouen
- Enjoy a short group tutorial on the wines that complement your evening meal in the Loire Valley
Included Additional Excursions & Sights
- Visit Rouen Cathedral and Place du Vieux-Marche, where Joan of Arc met her untimely death
- Drive along the D-Day landing beaches and see the remains of the Mulberry Harbor
- Enjoy a guided tour through the narrow cobbled streets of Mont St Michel
- Follow the 'Emerald Coast' to the massively fortified port of St Malo
- Sample some of the local wine of the Loire at Saumur
- See the imposing châteaux of Saumur, Angers and Usse.
- Visit Chartres Cathedral, famous for its stained glass windows
- In Paris - see the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre, Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe
Included First Class Services
- Escorted by a professional Tour Director
- Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard restroom
- Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
- Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
- Airport Shuttle arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 10
Included Quality Dining
- Highlight Dinner of local cuisine and wine in the Loire Valley (HD)
- 8 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 2 three-course table d'hote Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
Save 7.5% on Europe Winter Travel
November to April is the perfect time to visit Europe. The climate is often surprisingly mild, and the cities belong to their inhabitants and just a few discerning visitors. There is no better, more complete way to enjoy this experience than on an Insight Vacations escorted tour. Best of all prices are substantially lower than in peak summer season!
Save 7.5% on any 2010/11 Winter Europe packaged tour if you book and pay in full by August 13th.
Click to view all Insight Winter Vacations
TERMS: Booking and full payment for land portion must be made by August 13th, 2010. Offer is valid for new bookings made betweenJune 21st, 2010 and August 13th, 2010. Valid for land portion only. Travel must depart between November 1st, 2010 and April 3rd, 2011. Offer NOT valid on Select Choices departures or on Israel, Jordan, Greece, Turkey and Egypt. Offer applies to new bookings only. Normal name change policy applies. Offer is applicable to groups – with availability and collection of travelers’ names at time of booking. Promotion is NOT combinable with Early Payment brochure discount or any current air promotions. Promotion is combinable with all other brochure discounts. Once payment is received, cancellation penalties apply. Offer may be withdrawn at any time and subject to availability. Other restrictions apply. Please call for details. CST No. 20687545-20.
Great Savings and Discounts
FRIENDS & FAMILY DISCOUNTS
SAVE 5% FOR 5 - 8 PASSENGERS
Why not share your Insight tour experience with your friends and family – and save money! If 5-8 passengers book together we offer a discount of 5%. Further savings are available for groups of 9 or more passengers! This discount cannot be combined with Frequent Traveler, Young Traveler or Triple Room Discounts. To qualify, the names of all passengers traveling must be advised to Insight at the time of booking. Does not apply to Oberammergau Passion Play Option, additional accommodation, airfares or fl ight supplements, Select London Week, Select London & Paris, Select London, Paris & Rome, Egypt tours, Israel tours, Jordan tours, and tours with Mediterranean or River cruises.
YOUNG TRAVELER SAVINGS
5 - 17 YEAR OLDS SAVE UP TO 10%
Insight offers you the opportunity of sharing your happy holiday memories with your children or grandchildren. This discount applies only to tours featuring the “Young Traveler Discount” in the price panel. Check the itinerary pages now to see how much you can SAVE! Young Travelers must be under the age of 18 years old on the tour departure date and accompanied by an adult (limit of one Young Traveler Discount per room). Children under 5 years old are not accepted on any escorted tour.
This discount cannot be combined with our “Friends & Family Discount”.
SINGLE TRAVELER SAVING
INSIGHT’S ROOM MATE MATCHING
For people traveling alone on an Insight coach tour, we’ll match you with someone of the same gender, so you don’t have to pay the single room supplement. If we fail to match you, we’ll provide a single room at no extra cost†. There is a no-smoking policy in all shared rooms. Does not apply to additional accommodation, Riad upgrade option, airfares or flight supplements, Select London Week, Select London & Paris, Select London, Paris & Rome, Irish Elegance, Egypt tours, Israel tours, Jordan tours and tours with Mediterranean or River cruises. †Single rooms are not available for the Oberammergau Passion Play Option.
TRIPLE ROOM DISCOUNT
When three people travel together room, each of the three enjoys a discount off the tour price. See the Triple Room Reductions on the itinerary of your choice. This discount only applies to tours featuring the “Triple
Room Discount” in the price panel. Note the third bed on occasions, will be a foldaway. This discount cannot be combined with our “Friends & Family Discount”. Triple rooms are not available for the Oberammergau Passion
Play Option
FREQUENT TRAVELER SAVING
In recognition of our loyal customers, Insight now extends to all traveled guests automatic membership into our Club Bon Voyage, as well as a 5% Discount off the Land portion of their next Insight trip. You will need to travel within the next two years. So act NOW and take full advantage of this great offer. Enrolment forms and discount vouchers are available
from your Tour Director. Insight’s Club Bon Voyage and 5% Discount is not available retroactively. Only one voucher is available per person, per tour, per year and only one voucher can be redeemed against each further
tour booking. This discount cannot be combined with our “Friends & Family Discount” and “Extra Tour Discount.” Does not apply to Oberammergau Passion Play Option, additional accommodations, Select London Week, Select London & Paris and Select London, Paris & Rome.
EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT
ON EARLY BOOKINGS
Insight’s most popular tours fi ll very quickly. Don’t be disappointed, book early! You’ll be assured of the tours you want, and the earlier you pay, the more you SAVE! Here’s how...
Pay in full 12 months prior to your tour departure
date and SAVE UP TO 10%
Pay in full 10 months prior to your tour departure
date and SAVE UP TO 7.5%
Pay in full 6 months prior to your tour departure
date and SAVE UP TO 5%
Tours must be paid in full for this discount to apply. This discount only applies to tours that feature the “Early Payment Discount” in the price panel.
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All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and pricing.