Normandy

66 % of the UAA is devoted to crops. Crops include wheat, rapeseed, field peas, sugar beet… Local soil and climatic conditions usually ensure higher yields than the national average. Most of Normandy crops are exported. Rouen is the number one port in the E.U. for cereal exportation.

France produces half of the world tonnage for textile linen, and most of the fields can be found in Normandy. Although fibber extraction processes are done locally, 90% of the weaving and sewing activities take place in Asia.

Normandy is a land of green pastures : permanent grassland occupies over 30% of the UAA, feeding a herd of 576 00 dairy cows. Recently outnumbered by the Holstein, the Normandy breed is still renown for its hardiness and ability to produce high quantities of milk with a high fat content.

Thoroughbred or trot horses, half of the French race horses are registered in Normandy. Every year, horsemen gather for one of the world’s largest auctions for thoroughbred yearlings.

With 15% of the national milk production, Normandy is the first French region for cheese production ! Some of these products are worldwide famous for their quality : Camembert de Normandie, Pont l’Evêque, Livarot and Neufchâtel cheeses.

Downstream of this strong dairy activity, international dairy companies share the market with smaller cooperatives and private groups of national dimension.

“Normandy Land of Liberty” : on 6th June 1944, Normandy entered History by becoming the biggest battlefield of all times. Walk on the sandy landing beaches, visit the military cemeteries and immerse yourself into the Second World War History.

The little township of Honfleur is a lovely place to spend the day. Its picturesque port with colourful frontages, represented by many impressionist painters.

The beauty of the cliffs in Etretat is also well worth a stop. The astonishing verticality of the cliffs contrasts with the round pebbles on the beaches.