14 Great Hotels Near Normandy’s D Day Beaches

Some people come to Normandy on an historic pilgrimage to Mont St. Michel, or to see the Bayeux tapestry, but for many of us Normandy is most closely associated in our historical minds with more recent events: Dunkirk and the D Day landings. There’s something very special about the solemnity of the cemeteries and memorials along this beautiful stretch of coastline, about their sheer scale, and the similarities between those who’re buried here and ourselves. And for many of us visiting these places is one of the main reasons to visit this idyllic region. So it’s not surprising that there are so many hotels, châteaux and B&Bs in this region that are able to offer something a bit special to those visitors wanting to visit the D Day beaches and their memorials. Some have their own artefacts, some have stories, and some just offer great local advice, but all of our 14 great hotels near Normandy’s D Day beaches are handpicked as especially great places to stay for you.

Where to Stay:

Today the famous 80km of beaches where the D-Day landings took place are just wide open stretches of sand. Fringed occasionally by a fishing village or seaside resort and of course the many memorials, museums and cemeteries commemorating that period. We recommend that you base yourself in Dunkirk, Le Havre, Cherbourg or Bayeux for easy access to all these sights. There are lots of small museums and memorials but in Bayeux you'll find the Commonwealth War Cemetery, the largest British Commonwealth wartime cemetery in France, home to the graves of 4,144 British dead, and the memorial for another 1,800 whose bodies were never recovered and the Bayeux Military Museum. In Caen is the Peace Museum.

For a D Day themed property

• Just two houses away from the seafront in Arromanches les Bains, the D Day Aviators is a townhouse turned four room B&B. You can probably tell from the name what the theme is here, and they have an excellent collection of WW2 aeronautical artefacts, mostly displayed in the lounge like a mini-museum. The four bedrooms are only tied to the theme with their photographs, and are otherwise simple and elegant, with beautiful fireplaces and lighting, wood floors and a balanced use of chintz fabrics. There’s also a courtyard where they have two real propellors rescued from crash sites!

For a Château Hotel

• Elegant and romantic, the Château la Cheneviere is an 18th century château just back from the coast at Omaha Beach. Offering all the luxury of a fine hotel, but in a château setting, these 29 large rooms and suites are decorated with the height of modern luxury in mind, and there’s a cocktail bar, a classical French restaurant, a heated pool and tennis courts. Plus you’re surrounded by the château’s beautiful gardens and parkland.

• The Château la Ferriere is less of a hotel, more the sort of place you come and imagine you’re paying a visit to well off friends with a country mansion! This is because it still feels very much like an elegant home, and there are just five rooms, individually styled with their own parquet and toile du jouy, chandeliers and drapes, antiques and busts. The location, just outside Bayeux, and set in beautiful grounds, helps too. There’s no restaurant, but they do offer breakfast.

• Between Caen and Sword Beach on the coast you’ll find the Château de Beneauville, a beautiful Renaissance property set in 50 acres of gardens and parkland. Inside it's brimming with elegant antiques, tapestries, oil paintings, traditional wallpapers, carved wood and stone fireplaces with open fires, and some notable French design and patterns in its five rooms. The location makes it perfect for explorers, historians and researchers. But it’s just as much a romantic hideaway. There’s no restaurant, but they do offer a Continental breakfast.
• Classically beautiful, with the kind of huge elegant windows and ornate iron and stonework that châteaux are known for, the Château d'Audrieu was built in a beautiful spot in the 18th century, and is surrounded by elegant grounds. These days there’s a pool and tennis courts too. Inside there are 29 rooms, varying in opulence, but all boasting original features, antiques and pretty patterns. The restaurant is gourmet, and you’re not far from the coast around Arromanches les Bains.

For a family friendly hotel

• Le Grand Hotel, Cabourg is a large, elegant hotel right on the seafront, in the tradition of grand seafront hotels. It has 70 rooms and suites, in all sorts of shapes and sizes, many with huge windows or private balconies overlooking the sea. Expect all the mod. cons. and a choice of restaurants and bars.
• If you’d like a bit more space to yourselves, Les Rochers, a lovingly restored, 16th century rustic feeling manor house, has a gîte, which is perfect for families wanting their own space. It’s also got a large duplex room, also great for families, and six totally modernised, airy rooms decorated with an eclectic mixture of art, furniture and finds. You’re surrounded by fields here, aside from the courtyard, which is perfect for badminton or pétanque. There’s no restaurant, but they can provide gourmet suppers on request.

• Le Manoir Herouville also has a gîte, which sleeps five, and three of its four rooms also sleep four, so there are plenty of family options in this 18th century manor house conversion. The owners have managed to blend the manor’s original features. like uneven or exposed stone walls, exposed beams, vast fireplaces, tiled floors and even traditional farmhouse doors, with modern decor, and the effect is one of traditional, welcoming comfort. There’s a lot to do around here, and not too long a drive to the D Day beaches, Mont St. Michel and St Malo.

For a B&B

• Just a short walk from Pegasus Bridge, the Manoir'Hastings is a 17th century farmhouse, now offering four guestrooms for B&B. The farmhouses’s interiors have ben totally refreshed, retaining some of the exposed stone walls and beams, but creating a collection of light airy rooms, and an elegant restaurant in the process. The restaurant is known for its exemplary French cuisine, so useful to know even if you’re not staying here.

• If you want to accompany your explorations of the D Day landing sites with a rural escape perfect for contemplation, the right choice for you might be the Manoir de Benerville, a striking property in a wonderful position offering views of the surrounding area. Quintessentially French in design, both inside and out, the Manoir’s five rooms have just the right amount of chintz, the lounge is very elegant and there’s a beautiful garden with a pool. This is an adult’s only hotel.

The Best Value Hotels Near the D Day Beaches

• Located just 10 minutes outside Bayeux, La Ferme de La Gronde is a charming farmhouse turned five room B&B. It’s wonderfully rustic, both outside and in, with exposed stone walls, beamed ceilings and tiled floors, all accessorised with traditional French chintz fabrics and classic furniture. As well as being affordable, and only a short drive from numerous D Day sites, this is a great property for families, for as well as the family sized suites, there’s also a huge garden with a playground.

• Ferme de la Ranconniere is a collection of four lovely old buildings, set in picturesque countryside, and combined to make a 35 room hotel complete with an atmospheric restaurant specialising in local delicacies, a tennis court, large grounds and some lovely courtyards and terraces. Inside there’s a traditional feel of exposed stone, and beams, pitched ceilings and tiled floors, and, as you can imagine, not many of the rooms and suites are alike. There’s plenty of family-sized options too, but we especially like it for the clever use of these four traditional charmers, and for the price.

Still not sure which to book?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Normandy.
• Refine your search to just the best hotels in Arromanches les Bains, the best places to stay in Dunkirk, the best places to stay in Bayeux or in Caen.
• You could consider our Guru’s recommendations for 20 of the Best B&Bs in Normandy.
• Or, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • Chateau de la Ferriere Bayeux 5 rooms from AU$522

    
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    Local exploring  -  Ideally located in Normandy between Bayeux, Caen and the Landing Beaches for local exploring

    Country Escape  -  With acres of parkland, this is a grand base for a rural getaway

    Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor saltwater pool, available for guests to use every afternoon

    Sights nearby  -  Admire the striking architecture of the Abbey of Saint-Étienne in Caen

    

    A stunning 18th century chateau boasting a scenic and tranquil location just outside Bayeux. A handful of elegant rooms are traditional yet unfussy with a choice selection of antiques, floor to ceiling windows and indulgent bathrooms. A delightful base from which to explore the region. See More

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  • D day Aviators Arromanches les Bains 4 rooms from AU$210

    
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    Local exploring  -  As the name suggests the hotel is ideal for exploring the region's historical sites including the D Day Museum & Arromanches 360

    Groups  -  With just four rooms this is a great option to rent out in its entirety with friends or family

    Sights nearby  -  Bayeaux's attractions are nearby including the Cathedrale Notre Dame de Bayeux and the Bayeux Tapestry Museum

    Full of character  -  The property is filled with genuine artefacts from the D Day landings

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A small and charmingly atmospheric B&B situated in the heart of Arromanches. Lovingly renovated throughout the property is light, bright and mixes traditional and contemporary styles. Housing its own small WW2 museum and within striking distance of the region's historical sights. See More

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  • Chateau d'Audrieu Normandy 29 rooms from AU$427

    
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    Local exploring  -  Abundance of sights in the Normandy area, from museums, beaches, galleries, markets and outdoor activities

    Country Escape  -  An 18th-century chateau set on a 60-acre estate, this is a very grand country escape

    Sights nearby  -  A few kilometres from the coast with the famous D-Day Landing beaches and seaside resorts of the Pearl Coast

    Local markets  -  Daily markets nearby, as well as special night markets and must see morning fish markets

    

    Recommended by  -  Fodors, Relais & Chateaux

    A stunning 18th-century chateau set in beautiful grounds. Opulent rooms feature antique furniture and classic wallpapers. Boasting expansive gardens, an outdoor pool, & tennis court. Fantastic regional cuisine and luxurious interiors have fireplaces and beams. Romantic, gourmet, and very relaxing. See More

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  • Le Grand Hotel, Cabourg Cabourg 70 rooms from AU$393

    
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    Local exploring  -  Cabourg is a seaside resort famed for its endless sandy beaches and Belle-Époque atmosphere - a quaint town to explore

    Short break  -  Located just two hours from Paris, this is ideal for a quick coastal getaway

    Restaurant  -  Innovative gourmet cuisine is served in the restaurant overlooking the sea

    Sights nearby  -  The D Day landing beaches are about an hour from the hotel

    

    A grand coastal hotel set in a historic Belle-Époque building. Immaculate bedrooms and suites offer contemporary style with private balconies looking out to sea, stand alone bath tubs, and all the modern gadgetry. A gourmet restaurant serves dishes inspired by the region. A classic seaside stay. See More

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  • Manoir de Benerville Deauville, Normandy 5 rooms from AU$308

    
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    Full of character  -  The Anglo-Norman manor house, built by architect Goury, has been fully restored by the current owner without losing its charm

    Country Escape  -  A stunning rural property set in lovely gardens, it is the ideal spot to get away from it all

    Sights nearby  -  Wander along the pretty Port of Honfleur and soak up the sights

    Tennis  -  Play a game on the outdoor hard court

    

    A striking rural property set in pretty gardens. Find quintessentially french design in the rooms featuring chintz fabrics and patterns, large sash windows and some with four poster beds. An elegant lounge is the perfect spot to unwind with a regional tipple. A gorgeous rural retreat. See More

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  • Chateau de Beneauville Cabourg 5 rooms from AU$310

    
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    Country Escape  -  A quintessentially french country escape with chic interiors, indulgent breakfast and fantastic walks

    Groups  -  With just five rooms, this is ideal to rent out in its entirety for a grand getaway with friends

    Local markets  -  Sample regional produce at one of the local farmers markets that run throughout the week

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A whimsical Renaissance château set within 50 acres of grounds. Interiors brim with character, expect: elegant antiques, tapestries, working fireplaces and classic french patterns. There's plenty to do within the property from fishing to cycling and it's also well positioned to explore the region. See More

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  • Les Rochers Normandy 6 rooms from AU$245

    
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    Families  -  Duplex accommodation or the cottage are ideal for families while cots and toys are available for families with young children

    Local exploring  -  Located between the beaches and Bayeaux, guests can choose a day of culture or a quite day by the sea

    Country Escape  -  A charming rural house offering a secluded location surrounded by lovely walking country

    Sights nearby  -  The Bayeux Tapestry and D-Day beaches are easily accessible

    

    B&B accommodation in a lovingly restored 16th-century manor house. Inside, airy rooms boast an eclectic collection of art and furniture ranging from classic to art deco to contemporary. Gourmet dinners are available on request. The duplex room & gîte are ideal for families. A tranquil rural escape. See More

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  • Manoir'Hastings 14970, Normandy 4 rooms from AU$289

    
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    Local exploring  -  With the Bayeaux Tapestry & D Day Landing beaches nearby, this is well placed to explore some of Normandy's historical sites

    Short break  -  Well positioned just 10 minutes from Caen and 2 hours from Paris

    Foodies  -  Sample exemplary modern french cuisine at the hotel's restaurant

    Sights nearby  -  History on your doorstep - the Bayeux Tapestry is only 40km away

    

    A renovated 17th-century farmhouse in Benouville. Four chic rooms are light and airy with a perfect mix of contemporary and traditional styles. Boasting a fabulous restaurant serving modern French cuisine. Walking distance from Pegasus Bridge, (a pivotal D-day site) and Caen is nearby. See More

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  • Le Manoir Herouville Normandy 5 rooms from AU$269

    
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    Families  -  The hotel goes above and beyond to accommodate kids with plenty of facilities for children indoors and out

    Active Holiday  -  From tennis to cycling to riding and golf there are plenty of activities both onsite and offsite

    Total relaxation  -  Chill out in comfort in a lovely old house surrounded by extensive gardens

    Sights nearby  -  Bayeux tapestry, Mont St Michel, D-Day sites and beaches, Saint Malo and Parc Festyland are all easily accessible

    

    This 18th-century manor house is a haven of peace nestled in large, lush grounds. Four individually decorated bedrooms and one gîte provide ample family accommodation. A romantic ambiance with four poster beds and antiques. Well positioned for visiting the D-Day sites and Bayeux Tapestry. See More

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  • Chateau La Cheneviere Bayeux (Normandy) 29 rooms from AU$445

    
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    Local exploring  -  Some of Normandy's most famed attractions are nearby including the Bayeaux Tapestry and D Day landing beaches

    Foodies  -  The restaurant serves classical cuisine based on the flavours of Normandy

    Sights nearby  -  Very close to historic Bayeux where the Bayeaux Tapestry amongst aother historical sights can be viewed

    Tennis  -  Play a game on the hotel's court

    

    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel, Small Luxury Hotels

    A luxurious 18th-century chateau on the coastline. Traditional and elegant interiors include enormous rooms and suites, a classical French restaurant, and an inviting bar. With a pool and tennis courts within the picturesque grounds - this is the complete package for a french rural getaway. See More

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  • Ferme de la Ranconniere Crépon, Normandy 35 rooms from AU$139

    
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    Families  -  With family suites, kid-friendly activities such as cycling, and a playground - this is a good option for a family getaway

    Local exploring  -  Well positioned to explore Normandy's historical sights as well as offering easy access the beach

    Foodies  -  The restaurant set in an imposing dining room serves very good classic Norman cuisine

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the striking 13th century Bayeux Cathedral

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A collection of four striking mansions set in picturesque Normandy countryside. Interiors are traditional yet unfussy with exposed beams and stonework, open fireplaces and antiques. Superb classic Norman cuisine is served in the atmospheric restaurant and there's plenty to explore within the region. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 1st February 2023