Thury-Harcourt

Situated North of Suisse normande, Thury-Harcourt’s claim to fame rests with its castle or rather, what is left of it, and a significant industrial past, with tanneries and enameling factories. However, the village was destroyed by German forces in 1944, so it had to be entirely rebuilt after the war. The ruined castle is surrounded by enchanting gardens beside the Orne River. This quaint town also offers many possibilities for accommodations and restaurants. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, along with various other outdoor activities.

Falaise

Located close to Suisse normande, the town of Falaise is always associated with William the Conqueror as his birthplace. The city was developed around its castle erected in the 10th-century on a rocky outcrop overlooking the river and on the site of Guibray, to the east, where a sanctuary has been established since the Merovingian era. The word falisa meaning ‘rock,’ still dominates the market town to this day. The town was largely destroyed during the WWII bombings, however, you will still find plenty of wonderful relics from its glorious past. With around 8,500 inhabitants, it is a prime tourist destination, also offering a variety of cultural museums and leisure activities.

The castle in town, an outstanding example of medieval architecture, is where William the Conqueror was born in 1027. It was subjected to a massive lift-up in the 1990’s, where you’ll discover modern fittings that enhance the traditional architecture.

Bagnoles-de-l`Orne

Located beside a lake, hidden in the middle of the forest, this charming spa town nestles in the Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park. Bagnoles-de-l’Orne is the only spa town in north-west France, and has long been a place to come to relax. It became particularly popular in the late 19th-century, a period in French history known as the Belle Epoque. Some grand period buildings are still located throughout town, including the elegant casino, which sits at a beautiful place beside the water, and the palatial Résidence du Lac, standing out in patterned brick.

Across the lake, a shady park offers a beautiful promenade, and beyond that stands a lush wood-surrounded racecourse. Horse-riding, Nordic walking, hiking, mountain-biking and archery are among many outdoor activities to enjoy around the town and in the surrounding forest.

Pont-d'Ouilly

The charming town of Pont-d'Ouilly, located in the heart of Swiss Normandy, sits on the beautiful Orne river. The town takes its name from the bridge that crosses it. It was formerly known as stage city because it was one of the only ones with a bridge over the Orne to connect Paris to Brittany or Mont-Saint-Michel.

Like many towns and villages in Normandy, the town was heavily destroyed during WWII, but has since been rebuilt with elegance and aesthetics, while still preserving many ancient monuments of great beauty. Visitors will also find a number of leisure activities and recreational facilities, making this town a perfect destination for families.

Clécy

Situated on the River Orne, the charming slope-side village of Clécy sits on a dramatic outcrop known as Paine de Sucre (Sugarloaf), as well as by the Lande Viaduct. Here, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, paragliding, climbing, hill walking, and mountain biking. The village itself features interesting houses and manors that reflect Clécy’s importance in the region. Down by the Orne, the adjoining village of Le Vey, the river and riverside restaurants bring an energetic ambience. Other area attractions include a golf course and a summer toboggan track.

Flers

Flers is a city that claims more than ever its place as the second attraction of the department of Suisse Normande. The city combines cultural vibrancy and economic vitality. As you explore you'll find exceptional natural and architectural heritage. The centerpiece of the town is the castle and park. Flers castle, surrounded by deep moats, houses the treasures of the museum. You'll discover collections of Fine Arts, decorative arts, as well as local history that evoke the textile industry in the 19th-century and the life in the 18th-century Norman. The countryside around Flers is perfect for outdoor adventures.

Aunay-sur-Odon

Aunay-sur-Odon was completely destroyed by the bombings in 1944 with the precarious bell tower being the only remaining building. Reconstruction was organized very quickly with the first stone of the new town being laid on November 23rd, 1947. It was completed in 1951 under the leadership of architect P. Dureuil. As you explore this city today, you will discover the history of the city, its heritage and its reconstruction architecture. Make sure to admire the Aunay abbey, Motte-and bailey castle, and the Church of Saint Samson.