Honoring Valor: The D-Day Memorial
Explore the D-Day Memorial in Bernières-sur-Mer, a profound tribute to the heroes of World War II amidst stunning coastal beauty.
The D-Day Memorial, located in the charming coastal town of Bernières-sur-Mer, stands as a solemn tribute to the valor and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought during the Normandy landings in World War II. This historical landmark not only commemorates the bravery of the Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and other regiments but also serves as a place of reflection and remembrance for visitors from around the globe. As you approach the memorial, the striking design and serene coastal backdrop evoke a sense of reverence, inviting you to pause and honor the heroes of the past. Visitors can explore the meticulously landscaped grounds, which are adorned with plaques and sculptures that narrate the harrowing yet inspiring stories of those who stormed the beaches on D-Day. The memorial is strategically positioned along the picturesque beachfront, allowing guests to appreciate both the historical significance and the natural beauty of the area. While walking through the memorial, take a moment to absorb the profound peace that surrounds you, a stark contrast to the chaos of war. The D-Day Memorial is not only a place for solemn reflection but also an opportunity to learn about the pivotal events that shaped modern history. Informative displays and guided tours are available, providing context and depth to your visit. As you leave, you will carry with you a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made for freedom and a sense of gratitude for those who fought so bravely.
Local tips
- Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Take time to read the plaques and information boards to fully appreciate the memorial's significance.
- Bring a camera, as the beach and memorial provide stunning photo opportunities.
- Consider visiting nearby historical sites to enhance your understanding of the Normandy landings.
A brief summary to D-Day Memorial, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and others
- 220 Prom. des Français, Bernières-sur-Mer, 14990, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, use the address 220 Prom. des Français, 14990 Bernières-sur-Mer. From Caen, take the N814 towards Bayeux and follow the signs for D-Day beaches. Merge onto the D514 and continue until you reach Bernières-sur-Mer. The memorial is located along the coast, so keep an eye out for the Promenade des Français. There is free parking available nearby.
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Public Transportation
To reach the D-Day Memorial via public transport, take a train from Caen to Courseulles-sur-Mer. The train journey takes approximately 30 minutes. From the Courseulles-sur-Mer train station, you can take bus line 1 (Les Plages) towards Bernières-sur-Mer, which costs around €1. The bus will drop you off at a stop near Promenade des Français, from which the memorial is a short walk.
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Walking
If you are already in Bernières-sur-Mer, the D-Day Memorial is easily accessible on foot. From the town center, head towards the coast and walk along the Promenade des Français. It is a pleasant walk that should take about 10-15 minutes.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a great way to explore the Normandy coast. If you are in nearby towns such as Courseulles-sur-Mer or Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, you can bike along the coastal paths to reach the memorial. There are bike rental shops available in these towns, and the ride will take around 20-30 minutes, depending on your starting point.
Attractions Nearby to D-Day Memorial, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and others
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Maison de Queen's Own Rifles of Canada
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Plage de Bernières-sur-Mer
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Plage de Saint Aubin sur Mer
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Digue-promenade
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Juno Beach
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Jetée de Courseulles Sur Mer
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Panneaux pédagogiques (Juno Beach)
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Parc Juno Beach
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Juno Beach Center
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"Artwork" de Juno Beach
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Cross of Lorraine
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Juno Beach Memorial
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Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery
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Blockhaus WW2
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Canadian Cemetery
Landmarks nearby to D-Day Memorial, The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada and others
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Monument Signal du D-day
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Plage de Courseulles sur Mer
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Lighthouse of Ouistreham
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Colline aux Oiseaux
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Mémorial de Caen
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Caen Botanical Garden
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Porte des Champs
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Caen Castle
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Museum of Fine Arts, Caen
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Musée de Normandie
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Parc Michel d'Ornano
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Maison des Quatrans
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The Abbey of Sainte-Trinité
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St Peter's Catholic Church
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Caen Tourist Office