However, this unusual city at the mouth of the River Seine merits its own contemplative pause, rather than the usual dash for the ferry. Dozens of events are planned, including a street parade by the Royal de Luxe giant marionettes which came to London in and Liverpool in , regattas in the harbour and street art exhibitions, which could have no better canvas than the wide cobbled streets that cry out for a bit of colour.
A wander through the city is a curious experience, like a glimpse into a post-apocalyptic world, albeit with a s vibe. The flats perch above rigid lines of arcades, with shops set back from the streets. Designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, Le Volcan opened in and is a contrast to the geometric design of the city, yet it complements it perfectly.
The city has decked out one of the flats in s style to show how the residents of the newly built city lived, so I join a guided tour to glimpse inside.
In the bright, airy apartment there are two mid-century chairs set out for cocktail hour, a cheese plant, and an Atomic Sputnik wire coatstand. Mod cons such as fridges, vacuum cleaners, washing machines and central heating show how revolutionary the flats were at the time. This is Le Havre, though, and its light is what put it on the map. All the artworks are beautifully displayed in this steel and glass gallery, a bright white space that features walkways reminiscent of a cruise ship.
Inside, I bask in the glorious light that pours in through the windows and gaze out to sea. The delicate paintings are a contrast to the robust architecture of Le Havre, which has its own beauty. Hotel Oscar This cheap and cheerful hotel has 14 rooms and is next to Le Volcan.
