Upper Normandy

Upper Normandy has a coast of striking chalk cliffs, higher than 100 metres in places. Inland from the rugged coastline it’s a very different story, with rich pastureland where herds of beef and dairy cattle graze.

As a result Normandy produces some of France’s most famous cheeses, including Livarot, Pont l'Evêque, Brillat-Savarin, Neufchâtel, and Boursin.

There is little wine production, but apples are used to produce cider as well as featuring in many of the regional dishes. Try flan Normand - a flaky pastry version of apple tart. Upper Normandy is also home of the brioche.

The regional capital Rouen has an attractive medieval centre and magnificent cathedral - and is also infamous for being where Joan of Arc was martyred.

Art lovers should brave the summertime queues at Giverny - it’s well worth the wait to see the house and garden where Monet painted his famous waterlilies.