From the ship’s balcony, I saw the terminal, warehouses and shipping containers. Not the most inspirational aspect. Then, over the rooftops, I noticed scenery and a multi-coloured arch.
A shuttle bus was laid on to take us into Le Havre. Paris had been an option, but it is seventy miles away, and Mr Word Loft and I have been there a few times, so we looked forward to exploring somewhere different.
We were impressed with the port as we drove through. At the drop-off point, the green spaces and bright location appealed to us. We spotted the archway seen from the ship earlier and were drawn to it. Situated on the Quai de Southampton, it is a humongous work of art created from joined shipping containers, and reminiscent of a giant colourful Lego model. Catena Containers is, in fact, two arches, erected in 2017, the innovation of Vincent Ganivet. It certainly injects vibrancy into the pale hues everywhere else.
With the tourist map provided on the bus, we explored, wandering between highlighted landmarks. At Bassin du Commerce, an art installation emanates icy vibes with its floating Icebergs. An enthralling spectacle that matches the city’s contemporary feel, and overlooked by the Volcan, a curved white structure, home to a theatre and media library.
The place was heavily bombed in World War II, and there is a monument in the centre to commemorate the thousands of residents who perished then and in World War I. With two rows of French flags flying on either side, it makes a touching scene.
Because of the city’s history, there is a charming blend of old and new. We came across the Natural History Museum housed in an 18th-century building. Wildflowers wavered in nearby flowerbeds of the Old Market Square. In the corner, Mr Gull, with a human body and a gull’s head, seems to survey the landscape snootily as the sculpture perches on a post, the two parts totalling six metres.
We drank coffee in cafes and crossed bridges over waterways. Admired Notre Dame Cathedral with its elegant façade and towers. Dating back to the 16th century, it is the city’s oldest building. Murals glowed on dull brick walls as we located an intriguing venue.
The Narrow House stands in Square Claude Erignac, a small wooded park. It is the tiniest house I’ve ever entered and was a bit of a squash. It must have been fun for Erwin Wurm to design the outside and interior with its thin, elongated household items and furniture.
In a quieter part, there are fewer touristy shops; we came across the secluded gardens of Square Saint-Roch, and were surprised to see a huge full moon deposited in the pond. Displayed temporarily, and although it appears light, it is made of metal, resin and fibreglass.
Taking in the enchanting surroundings with its bandstand and beautiful shrubs and flowers, it was the perfect spot to spend a restful half hour before going back to the ship.
Le Havre was the final destination in our British Isles cruise. I’m not sure how a district in France fits with the rest of the itinerary, but we had a great day, and it was a wonderful conclusion to our holiday.
Best wishes,
Sue. X