If you are looking for a tiny corner of romance on the Norman coast, Honfleur is the place to go for a destination wedding in Normandy.
Miraculously well-preserved Honfleur is a traditional harbour, nestled between two green hills. This is where the Seine ends its voyage to the ocean. The architecture of the town and its surroundings as well as its picturesque harbour makes the ambience of this modest town a very special setting for your wedding indeed.
Art has been a very important part of the cultural life in Honfleur as early as the 18th century when watercolorists and landscape artists, seduced by the light, the sea and the sky first came to Honfleur. The town remained untouched by the Napoleonic wars therefore maintaining its 18th century charm and renowned artists such as Turner, Corot, Pissaro, Renoir and Cezanne came to Honfleur during the 19th century inspired by the sailors, the port, and the romantic landscape surrounding the town. Honfleur has inspired artists belonging to several movements such as the Barbizon School, the Impressionists, the Nabis and the Fauvists.
Painting is still very much a part of life in Honfleur. The town houses several art galleries and museums, such as the Eugene Boudin Museum dedicated to the artist that was born in Honfleur and never tired of its beauty. Imagine exchanging your vows in the town whose beauty inspired such sensitive souls!
In addition to the Eugene Boudin Museum Honfleur boasts several other fascinating sites. Art lovers will enjoy sites such as the Eric Satie Houses whereas history buffs will delight in the Norman Popular Art Museum situated in a former prison as well as the Naval History Museum. Don’t miss the wooden Eglise Saint Catherine, built by shipbuilders during the Hundred Years’ War. It is amazing that this ‘temporary’ structure is still standing 500 years later!
If your stay includes a weekend, be sure to take the time to enjoy the market that takes place every Saturday morning. Here you can enjoy local products such as cheeses, ciders and jams from local farms as well as fresh fish and seafood from the port.
Honfleur has many other activities to offer as well. Horseback riding, golf, sailing and yachting, swimming, bicycling, parachuting, tennis and bowling, as well as guided walking tours are all readily available. Marrying in Honfleur is certain to be a romantic and memorable adventure, we recommend it highly as a wedding location.
