Hi - we're going to Normandy for a few days shortly - staying at the La Fiere Bed and Breakfast. I've been to most of the "obvious" sites - I was just wondering what lesser known sites folks would recommend, especially (but not exclusively) around the American beaches - one place I've been reading about recently is Graignes, and we'll certainly try and get there, plus the site of Wilhelm Falley's death and all of the action around La Fiere and Cauquigny. I'm sure there are other interesting places though - would be grateful for any thoughts Many thanks BC
Seek out the Chateau de la Londe, inland from the Sword beach area. For there took place a ferocious hand to hand battle. At the time it was dubbed "The bloodiest square mile in Normandy" It is all quiet now. But once it was the centre of the drive to Caen. A battle of unbelievable ferocity.... We lost some men there, never found them... Sapper
For me, the lesser known battle of Normandie was the grinding drive south, by the mostly green US Infantry Divisions, to gain the jump-off positions for COBRA. http://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/USA/USA-A-StLo/index.html Also, I understand many Norman towns have plaques for civilian casualties. Being aware and pausing to reflect on these losses would be a small gesture for the shared price of victory.
Paul's book would give a few ideas of places to visit. As you are staying in staying in La Fière, why not ask the B & B owners (or other local residents) for their suggestions when you get there? Very often, the locals are more than happy to do this and they may well be able to share information with you that you would not find in a guide book. Personally, I would suggest you concentrate on the vicinity where you are staying (near the American Landing Beaches). There is much to discover about the Battle of Normandy even in a place like Cherbourg. Hope you have a rewarding trip. After you return, perhaps you would like to post a brief summary and / or some photographs of where you visited and what you discovered. It would help anyone else with a similar idea in the future.
Didn't notice you are staying at La Fiere. You'll love it there - a building itself part of the D-Day story. Give my regards to Vivian & Rodolphe who run it, great people who will be happy to pass on local knowledge.
Thanks to all - we're back now, and did indeed have a great time at La Fiere - I'll post some thoughts on what we did later on Cheers Alan
Glad to see you enjoyed your stay. I look forward to reading about the places you visited and the people you met.
