After a difficult day filled with sadness and loss, we rebound with something far more palatable: Calvados

A short drive away from our dock in Honfleur through rolling French countryside complete with farms, thatch-roofed houses, wrought iron gates and quaint gardens, we arrive at the Calvados experience. A cross between Disney and a how-to video, the experience includes a series of rooms cleverly disguised as scenery featured in the videos showing the process of distilling Calvados.

Essentially it is an apple brandy, but the delicate production from fruit to liquor is painstaking. The results are amazing. Following the experience we are able to sample. There is a generous piece of baguette and brie from the region served along with the spirits.

And then we finish the tour in the bottle shop.

My personal assessment of the visit is two thumbs up. It was so well done and informative.

Following the tasting we travel into the quaint village P’tit Beaumont We hop off the bus to take in sweeping views of the lush rolling landscape and also manage to visit a few shops.

From there we return to Honfleur and the boat. After a quick bite for lunch we venture out around the historic harbour town.

Back on board we get ready for a special dinner. it’s a seven course menu with complementary wines.