10-Day Normandy Château, France Slowcation

$6,600 USD – Trip cost per person (See below for inclusions and exclusions.)

A down payment of half the trip cost per person is required to secure a spot on the trip. The other half is due 75 days before the trip start date.

*$300 of the down payment serves as an administration fee and is non-refundable. You can see our cancellation policy HERE.

All payments made by credit or debit card are subject to processing fees. These fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. To avoid these fees, you can pay via bank account, which does not incur any processing fees.

I’m a single traveler. Will I be charged a single supplement?

There is no single supplement for this trip, and every person who signs up will get their own room. Note that we do not offer roommate pairing on this trip, and rooms can only be equipped with 1 bed.

What is included :

  • Airport pick-up*
  • 9 nights accommodation (single occupancy)
  • Activities as indicated on the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, 3 lunches, 8 dinners
  • Private, climatized ground transportation
  • Local trip leader throughout

*CDG airport pick-up is only included if arriving on Day 1 or staying in Paris before the trip begins. If arriving on another date, city, or airport, it is not included.

What is not included :

  • Visas (if needed) 
  • Trip insurance
  • International flights
  • Airport drop-off
  • Optional activities
  • Some lunches & 1 dinner
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities
  • Souvenirs

  1. Smile policy
    We welcome all kinds of travelers, and the group dynamic of each trip is different, but also part of what makes the trip so amazing. You should be able to treat everyone in the group as well as the locals with respect and kindness.

    No complainers
    Our goal is for everyone to have fun and a trip of a lifetime. On our trips, you should be able to let the small stuff go and exercise flexibility when things don’t go according to plan. If you are a traveler who finds fault with everything and complains about the little things, then our trips are not right for you. Come with an open mind and adventurous spirit, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime!

    France is not like home
    Expect things to be different than what you’re used to back home, and remember that it’s all a part of traveling and experiencing new places! For example, water pressure, bed and pillow firmness, and room temperature may be different than what you’re used to back home. Also, Wifi may be spotty, slow, or even unavailable in certain remote areas. You’ll be staying in a château that has been completely restored with modern touches for a comfortable and elegant stay. However, keep in mind that it was built in the 1700s and is not the same as a modern hotel.

    Trip leader
    Your trip leader will help you have an unforgettable experience, and can answer questions and offer suggestions. He/she will always try to go above and beyond to help you have an amazing trip, but he/she is not your personal assistant. Travelers should exercise a certain level of self-sufficiency and independence on our trips. We also suggest tipping those who went out of their way to help you, especially your trip leader, who will be with you throughout the entire trip.

    Semi-independent trip
    Our trips are designed for the semi-independent traveler. If you choose not to participate in any of the included activities, you are responsible for organizing your own activities. Your trip leader can offer recommendations for alternative activities, but it is up to you to make reservations for extra activities. Additionally, you’re free to arrive before or depart after the trip, but pre-/post-tour plans, accommodation, transport, etc, are yours to arrange. We do not offer assistance with any plans outside of the trip dates.

  2. This trip requires a low/medium level of physical fitness. If you’re not feeling up for an activity, you’re welcome to explore on your own.

    NOTE: Mont Saint-Michel is a steeper, elevated site. Expect a fairly steep walk to reach the abbey, with approximately 350 steps to the top.

    To participate in this trip, you should be able to:

    • Walk 1~4 miles (1.5~6.5 km) throughout the day unassisted, up and down stairs, over unpaved or cobblestone surfaces, with and without an incline, and on rough terrain.
    • Go up and down 2~3 flights of stairs to reach your room, as the château does not have an elevator.*
    • Be comfortable on your feet for up to 4~6 hours unassisted, walking and standing, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions.
    • Get in and out of a bus without assistance.

    *A porter will deliver your luggage to your room upon arrival and bring it down for you upon departure.

  3. You’ll stay in one handpicked château in the heart of Normandy — it’s not only where you sleep; it’s a large part of the experience! Staying in one place means you don’t have to pack up and move every day, and gives you the chance to truly immerse yourself in the region, enjoying the comfort and charm of the château.

    Every day includes excursions and activities designed for you to discover the beautiful region of Normandy, from sunny seaside towns to cheese farms nestled in the countryside. There’s also built-in free time to explore places at your own pace, and also to simply relax and enjoy the château and its surroundings.

    A dedicated trip leader is available throughout the trip to offer tips and suggestions to help you make the most of your time in Normandy.

    Find out more about how our slowcations work by clicking here: HOW IT WORKS.

  4. Below are some of the towns and cities near the château and approximately how long it takes to get there by car:

    • Bernay: 10 minutes
    • Livarot: 45 minutes
    • Pont-l’Évêque: 45 minutes
    • Giverny: 1.5 hours
    • Bayeux: 2 hours
    • Fécamp: 1.5 hours
    • Étretat: 1.5 hours
    • Honfleur: 1 hour
    • Trouville-sur-Mer: 1 hour
    • Rouen: 1 hour

  5. The château is located in the heart of the Normandy region, about a 2.5-hour drive from Paris. It sits just outside the tiny village of Carsix, which is largely centered around the castle itself. It is only a 10-minute drive from Bernay, a charming town known for its traditional half-timbered houses, quaint shops, and a selection of excellent local restaurants.

  6. The group consists of around 12~16 travelers. We prefer small group travel because, based on our experience, large groups are less easily able to integrate into society and generally have less authentic contact with the locals.

    A small group means that the participants will receive more personal treatment from the trip leader, who can more thoroughly attend to the needs of each person. Small groups are also more mobile and flexible as travel plans can be more easily altered en route.

  7. Most of our travelers are in their late 30s to late 60s/early 70s and most are solo travelers. Generally, we get a good mix of diverse people and every trip is unique thanks to the group dynamic.

    The minimum age on our trips is 18.

    Everyone is welcome on our trips; male/female, LGBTQIA+/straight, and solos/couples. 

    Check out the pictures from our past slowcation in the south of France to get an idea of who typically goes on our trips by clicking HERE.

  8. Most daily activities, excursions, and meals are included in the trip price. Optional activities and some meals are not included in the trip cost and are paid at your own expense.

  9. Airport pick-up is included only if you arrive on Day 1 or are staying in Paris before the trip. Pick-up from other airports, dates, or cities is not included. We normally don’t include transfers, but this trip is an exception since the château is quite far from a major airport.

    Airport drop-off is not included. Please budget accordingly. Your trip leader can help arrange departure transportation, and here are the options:

    1.) Private transfer (via trip leader): Shareable with others departing around the same time. Cost: €500~600 per vehicle, payable in cash to the driver. Arranged by your trip leader during the trip.

    2.) Welcome Pickups: Shareable with others departing around the same time. Cost: approximately €500 per vehicle, payable online by card. Can be booked online before or during the trip.

    3.) Taxi + train: Taxi from the château to Bernay €30~35 + train from Bernay to Paris Saint-Lazare €25~35 + train to the airport €15 or taxi/Uber €40~60. (Both taxi and train can usually be paid by card.)

    4.) Taxi + train + bus: Taxi from the château to Bernay €30~35 + train from Bernay to Rouen €15~20 + bus from Rouen to the airport approximately €30. (Most options can be paid by card, though some taxis may only accept cash.)

  10. Currently, passport holders from the USA, Australia, the UK, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland do not need a visa for a visit of up to 90 days in France. You may be required to show proof of exit from France in the form of a departure flight.

    If you are from a country other than those listed above, please check with your nearest French Embassy or Consulate about visa requirements.

    As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

  11. The official currency of France is the euro (EUR).

    Find out the live mid-market rate for your currency by using an online currency converter.

  12. We strongly recommend using ATMs to get cash in France as they usually offer the best exchange rates. You can withdraw some money from an ATM at the airport upon arrival and throughout your trip. It is always a good idea to bring some cash to exchange in case your bank puts a hold on your ATM card.

    You can usually find ATMs at banks, supermarkets, gas stations, shopping malls, airports, and post offices. You won’t have any issues finding an ATM in the towns we will visit during the trip.

    Since euros are a popular currency, most banks in your hometown/city will exchange your local currency for euros. This is a very convenient way to get euros, but some banks might not have favorable exchange rates or charge additional fees. It is best to check with your bank to see what fees are associated with exchanging money.

  13. Credit and debit cards are widely used in most towns and cities in France (except Amex and Discover). However, at small, local businesses such as coffee shops, bakeries, and bars, cash is the main method of payment. Therefore, it’s best to carry cash in case you come across a place that does not accept cards.

    It’s important to tell your bank and/or credit card company that you’ll be using your card in France. Some banks block transactions in foreign countries if they haven’t been forewarned of your travel plans.

     

  14. While tipping isn’t mandatory in France, it is customary. Rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is the norm. If you’re unsure what to tip, around 10-20% of the total bill is a good rule of thumb.

    Local day guides: 3~5 EUR, depending on the duration of the tour.

    Driver: 40~50 EUR, if you were satisfied with his/her service, at the end of the trip, based on past travelers’ feedback.

    Château staff: 40~50 EUR, split amongst all staff members, if you were satisfied with their service. If you feel a certain staff member went above and beyond, you’re welcome to tip them directly.

    Trip leader: 100~150 EUR at the end of the trip, based on past travelers’ feedback.

    For more information about tipping, please see our blog on tipping.

  15. We recommend having access to 600~800 USD or EUR for meals, optional activities, souvenirs, and gratuities that are not included in the trip cost, based on past travelers’ feedback. We strongly advise budgeting more than you plan to spend in case of an emergency or if you are an avid shopper.

    IMPORTANT: Departure transportation from the château to the airport is not included. Private transfers arranged via your trip leader or online through companies such as Welcome Pickups typically cost €500~€600 per vehicle (shareable with others leaving at similar times), while train or bus and taxi combinations cost around €50~€150, depending on your preferred combination. Your trip leader can help arrange departure transportation.

  16. Please contact your cell phone service provider to find out whether or not your cell phone will work in France. It’s also a good idea to ask your provider about data and call roaming prices. When you land in France, you will usually get a message from your provider that will give you the price of data, calls, and texts in that country. See the example below:

    Welcome to France! Your plan gives you unlimited data at up to 2G speeds and texts at no extra cost. Calls at 20 cents/min. Want our fastest data and unlimited calls? Get an International Pass for just $5/day. 

    You may also consider contacting your service provider to learn about what kind of international plans they offer for calls, texts, and data.

  17. The château offers free Wifi. It is not guaranteed in any bedroom. Keep in mind that the internet may not be as fast as you’re used to and could be spotty or weak in some areas of the château. You’ll also find Wifi in some restaurants and other public places in France.

    If you need an internet connection, then it is best to get an international plan for the duration of your stay.

  18. In France, the most common outlet fits European pin plugs, also known as the standard “Euro” outlet (see picture below). France operates on 230V and 50Hz. Converters and/or adapters might be necessary for your electronic devices.

  20. The weather in late September in France can be cool or warm during the day with average highs around 68~70°F (20~21°C). It gets significantly cooler at night and can even get cold with average temperatures in the low 50s°F (around 10°C). It’s best to pack layers and a warm jacket or cardigan for the cool/cold weather.

    Below are a few things that we suggest bringing to make your trip more comfortable:

    • Comfortable walking shoes (good traction & ankle support for cobblestone streets)
    • Lightweight clothing that dries quickly
    • Warm clothing (for cooler days)
    • Light and warm jacket/coat/cardigan (for cooler days and nights)
    • Scarf (for colder days)
    • Rain jacket
    • Umbrella (for shade & rain)
    • Sunglasses/hat
    • Small backpack or across-the-shoulder bag (for day trips)
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Adapters/converters for electronics (bring 2 or more just in case)
    • Prescription medication and/or over-the-counter medicine
    • Sunscreen (biodegradable, if possible)
    • Body soap, shampoo, conditioner*
    • Hairdryer
    • Washcloth
    • Extra bag for souvenirs (if needed)

    *All rooms have hand soap, so please pack toiletries as needed.

    Irons are available for your use at the château.

  21. The château does not offer laundry service, so please pack accordingly.

  22. The tap water in France is safe to drink. However, in larger cities such as Paris, while it is still safe to drink, many travelers have said that they didn’t enjoy the taste of the water.  Where we are staying, the tap water is fresh and drinkable, so don’t forget to bring your reusable water bottle!

  23. Most areas of France that you will visit on this trip experience fewer crimes compared to bigger US and European cities. As with any travel destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not to leave belongings unattended to avoid being an easy target for a thief.

    Being a larger city, pickpocketing can happen in Paris so be aware of your belongings, keep your valuables secure, and do not put anything in your back pockets. Be especially vigilant if you are in public transportation or at a crowded or touristy spot as thieves target these areas.

    The US State Department offers general travel information about France. See below for more information:

    US State Department Travel to France

  24. Yes, we can. All meals are included on this trip so please notify us of any specific requests such as gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, food sensitivities/allergies, etc at the time of booking. Restaurants offer a wide variety of foods, but keep in mind that alternative options will always be possible throughout the trip, but options might be limited.

  25. Please review the CDC Health Information for Travelers Website for France before traveling to see any recommended vaccinations.

    If you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions or are concerned about what vaccinations may be right for you, we strongly advise that you visit a medical professional or your personal physician before your trip.

  26. Yes, we offer private trips to France depending on the size of the group and availability.

    Please reach out to us at info@globe-drifters.com for more information.

Flights

Your arrival and departure airport is Paris (CDG).

*Please do not purchase any flights until you receive an email from us. You will receive an email regarding your trip within 24 – 48 hours of booking.

Visa

Currently, passport holders from the USA, Australia, the UK, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland do not need a visa for a visit of up to 90 days in France. You may be required to show proof of exit from France in the form of a departure flight.

If you are from a country other than those listed above, please check with your nearest French Embassy or Consulate about your visa requirements.

As a general rule, passports should have at least six months of validity when traveling internationally. Most countries will not permit a traveler to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.

normandy loire trip

The château is located in the village of Carsix, in Normandy, about 2.5 hours by car from Paris. Its location makes it a perfect departure point to explore the region. The château’s surroundings are a picturesque landscape typical of rural Normandy, known for its patchwork of green fields, winding hedgerows, and misty countryside scenery.

The château, built in the 18th century, showcases classic French Renaissance architecture with graceful façades, beautifully landscaped gardens, and period furnishings that evoke a sense of historical grandeur. The property features lounge areas, a grand dining room, charming pavilions, and even a private underground museum!

The château

There are 16 charming, comfortable rooms in the château, each with views over the gardens and its own character. Décor and size vary from room to room — some feature period woodwork, elegant moldings, or fireplaces, while others highlight antique furnishings or wall tapestries. All are equipped with a full-sized bed and a private bathroom.

Please note that there are no rooms on the ground floor; all rooms are either on the first or second floor (2–3 flights of stairs), and the château does not have an elevator.

You can select your preferred floor when booking, but room assignment is on a first-come, first-served basis only.

First Floor Deluxe Rooms

There are 9 Deluxe rooms located on the first floor, accessible via 2 flights of stairs. Each room features a full-sized bed and a private bathroom, thoughtfully designed with comfort and charm, each with its own distinctive décor, and large windows offering views of the garden.

Second Floor Deluxe Rooms

There are 5 Deluxe rooms located on the second floor, accessible via 2 flights of stairs.  Each room features a full-sized bed and a private bathroom, thoughtfully designed with comfort and charm, each with its own distinctive décor, and large windows offering views of the garden.

Second Floor Cozy Rooms

There are 2 Cozy rooms located on the second floor, accessible via 3 flights of stairs. Each room features a double fitted bed with a private bathroom, connected to a small separate room with a single bed. Smaller in size yet comfortable, these rooms have simpler décor and a small garden-view window, ideal for travelers seeking a simpler option.

Please note that these rooms are nice but small, and are therefore offered at a discounted rate of $500 per room.

We recommend that you purchase trip/travel insurance for your trip. We recommend Travelex which offers travel protection plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, emergency evacuation/repatriation, trip delay, baggage delay, and more. Otherwise, you are welcome to shop around online for a provider and policy that best suits your needs.

For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, click on the image below or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792. Globe Drifters’ reference location number is 09-0984.

Trip insurance get a quote travelex

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex CA Agency License #0D10209. All products listed are underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 11.17 E7N