Accommodation tips
My main tip is this: if you can possibly stay at the same B and B as I did in Clecy, le Pont du Vey,
then do so. It's a marvellous spot to hang out, with a relaxed garden
by the bridge and river, and a really friendly hostess, Madame Brion,
whose family have owned the place for generations, and who'll also do
you a decent packed lunch for the walking day. It's also incredibly
good value.
But book early. And if you can't get in here, there are various other
"chambres d'hotes" (B and Bs) in the area - let me know if you find
another good one.

In Bayeux, places are more expensive and more commercial, but it's a spacial experience to stay in the town. We stayed at Hotel Reine Mathilde, which has converted a lot of old buildings in the city centre and has rooms at a variety of prices if you book early enough.
If you end up staying in Caen, I can highly recommend Le Perroquet Fringuant (the dashing parrot), a very comfortable and well situated apartment in the heart of the old town, right by the castle.
Finally, if you stay overnight in Ouistreham, quite a lot of the
accommodation seems either to be for seaside holidays and have nowhere
for bikes, or are cheap "formula hotels" which don't seem very pleasant
according to reviews. But getting in on a late ferry, I would suggest
trying the Ibis which is right next to the ferry port - not for
character but for convenience. Check out in advance if they take bikes.
Please let me know if you find this is a good option.
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