HONFLEUR OLD BASIN

• Latitude: 49.4202
• Longitude: 0.233083
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in France

Location: Honfleur Normandy 14600 France

Web-site: URL_to_more_information_or_official_website

Honfleur Old Basin (Le Vieux Bassin) is a picturesque and historic maritime port located in the town of Honfleur, in the Calvados department of the Normandy region, northern France. It is celebrated for its scenic beauty, charming architecture, and historical significance. Here's a detailed description and specification of Honfleur Old Basin:

Description:

1. Historical Significance:

   • Established in the 17th century, the Old Basin was constructed in 1681.
   • It has historically been a bustling center of maritime trade and has played a crucial role in the economic development of Honfleur.
   • The basin was designed by Abraham Duquesne, a prominent French naval engineer.

2. Visual Appeal:

   • The Old Basin is renowned for its postcard-perfect scenery, featuring a colorful reflection of tall, narrow houses along its quay.
   • The waterfront is lined with cafes, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
   • The wooden Sainte-Catherine Church, the largest wooden church with a separate bell tower in France, adds to the area's aesthetic charm.

3. Cultural Impact:

   • The picturesque quality of the port has attracted numerous artists over the centuries, including famous Impressionist painters like Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin, who have immortalized the basin in their works.
   • It continues to be a hub for artistic inspiration and cultural activities in Honfleur.

Specifications:

1. Basin Size:

   • The Old Basin measures approximately 70 meters in length and 70 meters in width, offering a cozy, enclosed space.

2. Quay Layout:

   • The basin is encompassed by quays on all sides, with Quai Sainte-Catherine being one of the most notable.

3. Water Depth:

   • The water depth is sufficient for small to medium-sized boats and leisure crafts, typically ranging around 3 meters at its deepest points.

4. Berth Capacity:

   • The port can accommodate around 70 boats, making it well-suited for recreational boating and small craft mooring.

5. Access and Navigation:

   • The basin has a lock system that controls the water level, allowing boats to enter and exit based on tidal conditions.
   • Due to its historical structure, it is more suited for leisure boats rather than large commercial vessels.

6. Facilities and Amenities:

   • Though it is primarily a tourist and historical site, the basin offers basic facilities such as water and electricity supply for visiting boats.
   • Proximity to local amenities including shops, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.

Access and Transport:

• By Road:
  • Honfleur is accessible via major roads from Paris (about 200 kilometers) and other parts of Normandy.
• By Air:
  • The nearest major airport is Deauville-Normandie Airport, approximately 12 kilometers away.
• By Rail/Bus:
  • While Honfleur itself is not directly on the national rail network, nearby towns such as Deauville-Trouville have train services that connect to larger French cities.

In summary, Honfleur Old Basin is a small but historically rich and visually stunning maritime port. Its unique blend of historical charm, cultural significance, and modern-day amenities make it a must-visit location for tourists and a cherished spot for locals.