Normandy and Omaha Beach

Relive the D-Day invasion on this one-of-a-kind Memorial Day Weekend trip which will take you back 78 years in time to June 6, 1944.

From the moment you mount up on an authentic, vintage vehicle, you will spend your day immersed in 1944. Escorted by a professional historian, you  will visit the draws, monuments and memorials along Omaha Beach. Your convoy of authentic vehicles will also stop at the American Interpretation Center, Normandy Cemetery, and Pointe du Hoc before wrapping up a long and emotional day. This Academic Excursion on Omaha Beach is a unique combination of fun and education. On Sunday you will have the chance to visit Le Mont St Michel, the island monastery which in ages past was reachable only during low tide but now can be reached any time by causeway. After this Memorial Day Weekend, you will have a new or improved appreciation for the challenges of Operation Overlord and the invasion of Normandy.

Spaces in this trip are limited and this trip historically sells out early (in 2019, it was sold out before March 1st). Reserve your space with Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation today!

Estimated Itinerary

Friday: Departure to Caen

After settling into your seat you will lean back and relax while your comfortable coach whisks you away to Caen. Don’t forget the essentials; blankets, pillows, headphones, power banks, and drinks will all help make your journey to Normandy more comfortable.  After you check into your hotel in downtown Caen, you will be free to explore the medieval city or to visit the Caen Memorial Museum.  The symbols of the city, Chateau de Caen and Abbey of Sainte-Trinite, both built almost 1000 years ago during the rule of William the Conqueror are a stunning backdrop to the medieval city, while the Caen Memorial Museum, which will remain open until 7 pm, will give you a preview of your visit to Omaha Beach.

Saturday: Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc

Todays tour of Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc will be an educational and emotional experience.  From the moment you arrive at Vierville Draw and mount up on an authentic, vintage vehicle, you will spend your day immersed in 1944. Escorted by a professional historian, you  will visit the draws, monuments and memorials along Omaha Beach. Your convoy of authentic vehicles will also stop at the American Interpretation Center, Normandy Cemetery, and Pointe du Hoc before wrapping up a long and emotional day. After this tour you will have a new or improved appreciation for the challenges of Operation Overlord.

Sunday: Free time or Excursion to Mont St. Michel

Today you can see more of Caen, including its many WWII related sites, or visit Mont St. Michel.  While in historic times, you had to cross dangerous mud flats and sand bars to reach the island, today you only need to cross a 2500 foot pedestrian bridge, and climb 350 steps to reach the Romanesque monastery at the island’s summit.

Monday: Return to Kaiserslautern

After breakfast you will board the bus for return to Kaiserslautern. Relax while the bus returns you to your point of origin.

Price:

• Adults: $679 per person
• Single Occupancy: $929

Hotel Deadline:  This trip is confirmed.  New registrations will be made on a space available basis after confirming new hotel room availability.

Trip Includes:

• Round trip tour bus transportation
• 3 nights lodging at Ibis Caen Centre Port de Plaisance*** or equivalent
• Daily breakfast
• “BLOODY OMAHA” Academic Excursion with professional historical guide, authentic vehicles, included lunch, memorabilia, and visits to Point du Hoc and Normandy  American Cemetery
• “QuietVOX” audio guide system

What to Bring:

• Comfortable, weather appropriate shoes and clothing
• Debit/Credit Card or Euro
• Military ID and Passport 

Departure: 3 a.m. from Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, bldg. 2905

Return: Around 9 p.m.