We meet in Deauville (1 night) for a short drive to Honfleur. The birthplace of Impressionism, this gem of Normandy offers lovely portside walks and magnificent views from the Cote de Grace chapel.

The classic Norman countryside—apple orchards, wooded valleys, dairy farms and quaint villages—is perfect for walking and for a pause to taste calvados, the local apple brandy. From our château hotel near Bayeux (2 nights), we visit the legendary 230-foot tapestry named for the city. Then we spend a day with remarkable coastal walks at the sites of more recent battles—the D-Day beaches of Normandy—including Pointe du Hoc, the American cemetery and Omaha Beach.

Mont-St.-Michel is one of France's premiere landmarks. We time our visit so that, like centuries of pilgrims, we can cross the tidal flats on foot to explore this glorious fortress. From our base in Saint-Malo (3 nights), we roam the 6th century seaport, walk spectacular seaside trails and even take a lesson in Breton cooking. Finally, we explore the countryside and villages around Mont Dol and sample the seafood on the panoramic seacoast near the oyster-farming center of Cancale. On our final day, we visit the medieval quarter of Rennes before boarding trains to Paris.