WWII Enthusiast’s Tour: Normandy, The Channel Islands, & Paris
9 - 12 Days
12 Days- $10,620/person (single add $2380)
9 Days - $7,876 /person (single add $1724)
Couples, Friends, and Solos
Oct 16-27, 2024
Oct 16-24, 2024
All Breakfasts, 7 (5) Lunches, 8 (6) Dinners
Nov 11-23, 2025
Nov 11-19, 2025
D-Day Beaches & Landmarks, Normandy Coast, The Channel Islands, & Paris
Immerse yourself on the 80th Anniversary of D-Day to the sites where heroes made history. Travel back in history viewing the medieval Bayeux Tapestry while strolling through the most charming seaside towns in France. Visit the ancient monastery of Mont St Michel by day and dine at a Michelin star restaurant in Saint-Malo on the coast at night. Catch a ferry across the English Channel to the mystical Channel Islands, where German bunkers and tunnels are perfectly preserved. Knitted Jerseys and Guernseys will warm your body and the thriving island culture will warm your heart. Sip Calvados and local cider before heading back to Paris. Stay on for 3 more days in 5 star luxury and tour the most famous sites in France for a memorable stay you’ll never forget.
Highlights
Taste, touch, and see the spectacle of World War II era France, and do it with an Army Ranger & author whose care for people earned him the Bronze Star in Iraq.
Relive the thrill of battle by experiencing Operation Overlord on the Normandy beaches as if you were an Army Ranger & Paratrooper. As only a Ranger with combat experience could, Captain Joe Sacchetti leads you to Point du Hoc where the Rangers scaled 100-foot cliffs under German gunfire, and then behind enemy lines as one of the paratroopers who liberated the town of Saint Mere Eglise.
Visit the powerfully somber American Cemetery for the playing of Taps and many famous landmarks that will make an indelible mark on your soul.
Delight yourself in the land of Normandie dairy cheese and Cancale oysters
Sip regional Calvados apple brandy & local dry cider
Disembark the Channel Island ferry to the island of knit sweaters, stunning sunsets, the German occupation and British resilience!
Capture sites most only dream of: Parisian glamour, the dreamlike Normandy coastline & a Michelin star restaurant located within the walls of the best kept secret seaside town in Brittany.
Walk across the water to world heritage site of Mont Saint Michel.
Sail to the magically unblemished Channel Islands, still nearly as they looked in 1945.
Stay on for the full tour to visit Paris and indulge yourself whether a first timer or seasoned vet to the Eiffel Tower, Arc D’Triomphe, Shoah Holocaust Museum or the Louvre, all while staying in five star grandeur of Paris’s finest Arron dissement, the 7th, with spectacular shops and special Michelin Star final evening dinner.
The military afficionado will love that Louie the 14th was not to be outdone in his memorial to soldiers who had served... Les Invalides is home to a wondrous collection of military ‘museums within a museum’ featuring its iconic golden dome which shrouds the tomb of Napoleon.
Who’s Your Host?
Captain Joe Sacchetti is a U.S. Army Ranger- qualified paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne and author of Guts, Smarts & Love, who served 2 tours in Iraq and was awarded the Bronze Star for actions in combat.
A Track & Field All-American and Welterweight Boxing Champ in the 82nd Airborne, Joe escorted the Olympic torch through his Pennsylvania hometown in 1980 on the way to Lake Placid as a kid, and from that moment knew he wanted to see the world!
After MIT’s Business Exec Ed program, Joe started Highroads Traveler to make sophisticated global travel easily accessible to small groups of 20 by “hosting them, now via Legacy Collectibles.
It’s rare to mesh the world of combat vet and sophisticated traveler, yet Joe is on a journey to be the world’s first Army Ranger to visit every country on the globe. 160 out of 227 so far, and it’s much more than stamping a passport.
Connecting with people around the globe in their language makes every trip more fun. From European roots, Joe is comfortable in half a dozen or so, and always learning more.
Playing music is another fantastic people connector so he & his wife Domenica always keep an eye out for a piano to gather round at happy hour. It doesn’t take much nudging from her to get him to play either!
Why “Hosted?”
Go with a Pro.
You’ve saved up and are ready to take the trip of a lifetime. Do you really have time to plan all the details and get it all perfect? If yes, great! Yet for most, pretty much no way. And how about when you get there making your way to the best hotels, sites and restaurants? Most say... daunting. Our solution – let’s go together and make your greatest trip ever.
“Taste, touch and see what the world has to offer” is Joe & Domenica’s mantra, and now you’re invited to come share the journey to the best places in the world with their small -group hosted tours.
Day by Day
Day 1
Normandy— Meet in Paris at Le Cinq Codet Hotel to set off in comfort on a scenic 3 hour ride through the French countryside towards the Normandy coast.
After lunch, arrive in the hallowed region where heroes were made and join a local expert and walk Omaha beach, see the engineering marvel Arromanches, and visit the beautifully solemn American Cemetery and stand at attention for Taps played at 1630 sharp.
Drive 15 minutes to Normandy’s spectacular medieval town of Bayeux and check into the fairytale luxury of the Chateau Saint Gilles on a romantic estate that will take away your breath as you enter the grounds.
Meet for happy hour on the terrace to share highlights of the day at sunset on the picturesque estate and get ready to sip a local cider experience with cheeses, and seek out local fare selected by Emerick the proprietor. Cap off dinner with a taste of local Calvados apple brandy!
Day 2
Normandy— After an early invigorating walk along the grounds and/or expansive breakfast in the fireplace room, begin a memorable day of WW II exploration at Pont Du Hoc where the Rangers scaled the cliffs under German gunfire, and on to Utah Beach where American forces faced stiff resistance. Travel just a few miles inland to the St Mere Eglise, the first town liberated in D-Day by the 82nd Airborne, whose parachutes descended from the sky. Spend time in the interactively exciting 82nd Airborne Museum in the town square and see the church where a likeness of Pvt John Steele still hangs from the steeple.
Return to Bayeux in the afternoon for your opportunity to spend free time in town to visit the must-see medieval Tapestry from the 12th Century, pass by the Cathedral, and stroll along the shops. Meet for happy hour and our first taste of urban Norman cuisine at La Table du Terroir in the old town.
Day 3
Normandy— After another delightful morning at the Chateau, head north along the coast to make a stop at the famous Pegasus Bridge by the Brit and Canadian beaches, then drive 1 hour to see Honfleur, one of the loveliest seaside towns in all of France. Known for its half-timber houses and thriving marina, stroll through the historic town with a walking tour.
Enjoy the dockside shops and views before sitting down to a special lunch in town combining local fare paired with varietal ciders.
Then return back to Bayeux just in time for happy hour at the bar to share your day’s highlights and then head off to an evening on your own.
Day 4
Normandy— Stop at Brecourt Manor to see Easy Company’s battlefield victory for the 101st made famous in the show Band of Brothers.
Then we head west into Brittany to tour Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO site and one of Europe’s most popular pilgrimage spots. A local expert will take us through this picturesque castle on the water. Take magical pictures there that are perfect for your next Christmas postcard.
After lunch, continue a short drive west along the coast to Saint-Malo, the best kept secret in France, a medieval walled port town highlighted by St Vincent’s Gothic Cathedral rising up like a pointed roof over a bite-sized city. Climb the steps to the wall to view the striking panorama of the Atlantic Ocean and then walk through the narrow streets to upscale shops.
For dinner we walk over to the Michelin star restaurant Le Cambusier to sample the delicacies of the Breton coast, prepared by chef Marie-Eve!
No need to board a van afterwards. Instead, we stroll a few blocks to the 4-star Hotel L’Adresse at the edge of the beach for a night of fitful rest.
Day 5
Channel Islands— Into the English Channel we go just as the intrepid troops on D-Day went! Board the 100 minute Condor fast ferry from Saint-Malo to the Channel Islands, where time has stood perfectly still since 1945 with well preserved German gun emplacements, towers, and homage to the Brits during the German occupation.
When you step off the boat, you’ll be in Jersey, yes the original one! First stop in St Ouen is the Channel Island Military Museum where curator Damien Horn has transformed a WW II artillery bunker into the best collection of Nazi paraphernalia in all of UK & France.
Wartime meets fantasy next at the Jersey War Tunnels. You won’t believe that the Germans built a kilometer of underground rooms to serve as a hospital quarters, offices, jail cells and hiding places until you’ve seen it.
After lunch, end the afternoon by arriving as far west on the island as you can go. You’ll be dropped at land’s end to see La Corbiere Lighthouse…and then go a little further if you dare. At low tide you can cross the 300 meter path out to the lighthouse, but beware the tide rushes in 12-15 feet of height each day by late afternoon. See the lighthouse up close - just get back in time!
The Atlantic Hotel will be your retreat for 3 nights of modern luxury on the edge of the island. La Corbiere Lighthouse and 3000 miles of blue ocean will fill your window. After check in, meet at the piano for happy hour with Joe. Then enjoy fine dining at The Ocean, a 4 AA Rosette restaurant that frequently features dishes from Michelin rated chefs.
Day 6
Channel Islands— Enjoy an early workout at the spa or just come down to enjoy the island’s best breakfast buffet. Take the rest of the morning to walk the beach, sit out by the pool, or watch golfers on the course that stretches along the grounds of the property.
After soaking up some sun and views, we’ll launch out for a great afternoon exploring the island after lunch on your own.
Elizabeth Castle sits strikingly out in the water and we’ll reach it by foot or by duck-boat depending on the tide. After a tour of the castle and the German bunker additions, you’ll enjoy the pedestrian shopping streets of downtown St Helier for a self paced afternoon until we join together for dinner in the city at nearby Quayside, a couples’ favorite spot that features chic urban fare.
After a great island dinner, head back to The Atlantic or stick around for a drink at the nightclub downstairs.
Day 7
Channel Islands— Once more into the breach we go! Today we board the short Condor ferry for a day trip to famous Guernsey Island to see what life is like on this little island that is so prominent in sailing and knitting lore.
Off we go to meet up with our local guide for a walking tour and to find out just what a Guernsey sweater is & the real story behind the “Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society” movie. We’ll visit the German Occupation Museum and Candie Gardens in St Peter Port before coming back down into town.
Depending on ferry schedules, we will have a chance to eat at Hook, the best restaurant in Guernsey and enjoy great cocktails, steak and sushi (yes both!) with a water view. If we head back to Jersey early, we’ll luck out to enjoy The Beach Club on St Brelade beach, our favorite spot on Jersey for food and fun atmosphere. Win-win!
Day 8
Channel Islands/Paris— Cross the island east to St Martin where Mt Orugeill Castle perches atop the highest point in Jersey. From seaside Gorey village below, choose either the steep steps or the gentle ramp and we’ll meet at the top for a tour inside and the best views of the island - see all the way to France on a clear day!
Afterwards, check out the shops below including the last original artisan of Channel-Island-knit Jersey and Guernsey sweaters in the world. Slow it all down by the water with a Channel Island cider and a fresh catch for a great seaside lunch at The Moorings.
Say goodbye to the islands till next time and board the ferry back to France and onto a coach for a victorious 4 hour ride back to Paris, with snacks & wine.
Arrive by 9 pm to a hero’s welcome at the 5 star Le Cinq Codet Hotel in the elegant 7th arr for a nightcap in the courtyard and bed, or a late night dinner in Paris in walking distance on your own.
Day 9
Paris— Wake up in the City of Lights and enjoy a workout & breakfast before your morning stroll through Paris. End your trip at checkout with a fond hug till next time and head back home,
OR
Stay on in Paris for a history enthusiast’s dream day that begins with a relaxed wake up and breakfast. At noon, walk over to Les Invalides, Louis XIV’s golden-domed tomb for Napoleon and sprawling collection of military armaments’ museums within a museum.
Or perhaps the ladies may choose a spa day at Le Cinq Codet and shopping in the 7th.
Lunch is on your own with several choices within the Les Invalides grounds and nearby.
Then we’ll all board a river boat for a sunset dinner cruise on the Seine to see Paris at night!
Day 10
Paris— Enjoy a free day & evening on your own to visit the sights you’ve always wanted to see like the Musee D’Orsay, Luxembourg Gardens, or the Shoah Holocaust Museum.
Or double down on timeless favorites like the Louvre, Arc D’Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower.
How about any one of these:
· Get dressed & spend money shopping on the Champs D’Elysees.
· Or Take a ride out of the city to Sacre Coeur or Versailles.
· Or Sample a tasty Croque Madame from a street cart and stroll in the Latin Quarter.
· Or Place a lover’s padlock on the Pont Neuf (and remember where you put it)!
· Or Catch the hipster-shopping-and-food scene at the Canal in the 10th.
Whatever you can think of doing, you deserve it.. and we can help point you in the right direction!
Day 11
Paris— Start your day leisurely at Le Cinq Codet!
Catch up on all your last minute must-do’s before a breezy walk thru the 7th to meet for wine and cheese on the Eiffel Tower lawn in the later afternoon when the sun is great for photos.
We want to hear all about your life as Parisiennes over the past 24 hours!
There’s only one way to end the trip of a lifetime and that’s to crush it with another Michelin star restaurant.
Will this night in Paris cap off the best tour ever? After the unforgettable French cuisine you’ll savor at L'Atelier De Joël Robuchon, you decide!
Afterwards, amble back to Le Cinq Codet or maybe linger next door with me at the historic Hotel Pont Royal for a nightcap and cigar amidst the walls of celebrity photos!
Day 12
Paris— Enjoy a workout & breakfast in the City of Lights before your final morning stroll through Paris.
End your trip at checkout with a fond hug till next time. Maybe a couple!
Till we see each other again... Au revoir, mes amis!
* Reminder—Please do not book flights until your trip is confirmed. Dates and locations are subject to change. Thank you!
What's Included
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All Breakfasts, Selected Lunches, Selected Dinners
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Bon Voyage gift(s) for your International Tour
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Expertise and service from your Highroads Traveler Host, Joe
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Additional regional guides and experts on several trips
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Comprehensive Trip Detailer with all-you-need-to-know info
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Guided tours at historic sites and select attractions as noted in the Trip Detailer
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All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
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Special events, including wine tastings and select attractions as mentioned in the Trip Detailer
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Park and other entry fees
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Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Trip Detailer
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Select coach transfers
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Baggage transfers
Not Included:
Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Highroads Traveler trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.
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Gallery & Testimonials
As an Army Ranger for 25 years, I served as Joe Sacchetti‘s 2nd-in- command during Desert Storm, and there is nowhere in the world that I wouldn’t follow him, He cares about people. If I had the money, I would go on every trip he takes.
Master Sergeant Al A. , 45th anniversary D-Day (1994) Jump Team, Army Ranger, Green Beret, Bronze Star, Master Parachutist
We first met Joe on the island of Martinique while he was leading his group on a New Year’s trip. Ooh la la, he lives life like a true Frenchman! C’est Bon, such joeux de vie!
Christian C. , Sergeant, French Maritime Marines
