I am a Canadian, but fortunate enough to have my bike in Europe while I'm working here. Last week I rode from Warsaw, Poland through Germany and Belgium into Paris, France, then spent 4 days in Normandie visiting WWII sites...both Canadian and American. I started at Juno Beach then went on to visit Omaha Beach and Utah Beach as well as Pointe du Hoc (Ranger territory). Following the "Band of Brothers", I visited Saint-Mere-Eglise, Brecourt Manor, Carentan, etc. There is a monument to Major Dick Winters and the 101st Airborne at Brecourt Manor (see attached photo). Being Canadian, I was very impressed with the accomplishments of the Canadian forces in that area and it was great to see Canadian and American flags everywhere and the people were very happy to talk to me when they found out I was Canadian. It was a very humbling trip...visiting war cemetaries and monuments, but a great experience that I wouldn't hesitate to do again...especially when my sons are a little older and start learning about WWII. On the way back to Poland, I went north to visit Vimy Ridge...site of a very famous Canadian victory in WWI and a beautiful monument stands there today. This whole area should be visited if you ever get the chance. You won't ever forget it.

4292 kms in 7 days...lots of rain and wind...with some sunshine...but overall, one helluva trip.

I have posted plenty of pictures on my Facebook page. If you're interested, send me a friend request.

By the way, the French countryside was absolutely beautiful to ride through...lots of twisties and incredible little French towns and villages.

Thanks for reading...

Dale

 

Very cool. Saw your post in the touring forum. I'm a big WWII buff - and will be heading to Germany for some R&R in 4 weeks. Not sure about the area I'll be in - but I'm hoping to rent a scooter for a few days to check things out myself! Thanks for sharing.

 

I did a tour a couple of years ago in the Belgium Ardenne area. It was AMAZING - great roads, great people and the history around this area is unbelievable.

Stayed in a great B&B, run by a brit couple - he is a biker nut so knows all the local routes very well. Highly recommended. Sounds very similar to your trip - well done.

I am always left in awe at the futility of WW1, but remain eternally grateful for the sacrifice these heroes made

 

I also went to Normady. You read and hear all the history of Normady but until you actually see for yourself what our men did on those beaches it is truly amazing! I just kept saying there is no way! The museum in Cain really hit me hard. While visiting the cemetery I just kept thinking of the sacrifice we have asked from so many soldiers to not only protect us but the world.

All the riding in that area is truly awesome!