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The Alsace Region to Normandy

We will be driving from the Alsace Region (Near Colmar) to the Normandy area. We were thinking of taking two days to make the drive and stop somewhere along the way. Does anyone have ideas of where we could stop about half way. It shows about a 7+ hour drive for the entire trip. So we were looking for a 3-5 hour drive the Colmar area. Some of the more obvious places we have already visited before are, Reims, Troyes, Chartres and of course Paris.

We will be traveling the second week of Aug.

Thank you for your ideas!

Posted by
7887 posts

Since Google Maps shows well over 8 hours (and I always round UP Google times), I question your estimate.
Google shows a northerly route through the Champagne district (halfway), which I haven't visited. But once you're up near nine hours, you can drag the route and discover that going through Orleans and Tours is also near nine hours. But that's a really short visit to the rich Loire Valley, that most people give a few days to.

Personally, I wouldn't drive a car that far (especially on a MISSION, rather than a ramble!), and would select another region, or Switzerland or Germany for part of my vacation. But it's your trip. Be sure to give the month of the year if you post again. It can help both suggestions and warnings.

Posted by
7161 posts

I drove this (approximate) route in 2 days also. It wasn't a bad drive, but I'm a road tripper at heart and don't mind driving long distances. The place I spent the night was at a b&b in the middle of nowhere, which was nice but most people don't want to stay in the middle of the forest - I had my reasons for going there.

Reims is the logical midway stop, but since you've been there already I would maybe suggest Laon. I've not been there myself but I did research it as a possible stop on my route. It has some medieval buildings, a historic cathedral, and a Templar chapel, which did sound interesting to me.