[TimD]

I'm plotting my annual pilgrimage early this year, and for once in my life, I'm planning to remove the one hassle I encounter on trips to la Sarthe.

Downtown Rouen.

I'm sure the historic part of the city is lovely, but the industrial area where the through-routes go is not exactly prepossessing, and I've come too close to being wiped out by artics too often.

So, given that my crossing is booked, and I shall be starting from Calais, what would the French residents and Le Mans regulars recommend as a good route to avoid driving through Rouen?

Apologies in advance if you happen to live in Rouen.

And - what is everyone's favoured route across France? Is Calais the natural choice for the crossing, or are some of the other ports preferable?