Cotentin D Day Landing Beaches

Operation Overlord was a huge logistical exercise, which had been 10 months in its planning. The 6th of June 1944, was just the beginning of a campaign which was to last until 25th August 1944 and leave its scars all over the Normandy countryside. The soldiers’ bravery lives on in the collective memories of the Norman people to this day and is commemorated in the military cemeteries, battlefields and museums of Normandy.
Begin with a drive through the scenic Normandy countryside to Azeville, where you’ll visit the German bunker fortification, of which all 4 of the original blockhouses remain intact. Learn about the daily life of 170 men stationed at the site by exploring these narrow corridors.
At Utah Beach, you’ll have the opportunity to take a few pictures and stand where soldiers once stormed the beaches 70 years ago.
Before returning to Cherbourg, stop briefly at Sainte Mère Eglise, where paratrooper John Steele’s parachute caught on the spire of the town church. He was suspended for 2 hours, pretending to be dead, before he was taken prisoner by the Germans. A mannequin hangs from the steeple as a reminder. The incident was portrayed in the movie ‘The Longest Day’.
Visit the town’s excellent Airborne Museum which is built in the shape of an opened parachute. Exhibits include a C-47 troop carrier, a Waco glider, displays, photographs, and memorabilia.