Overview

Suisse Normande (‘Norman Switzerland’ in English) is a paradise for outdoor pursuits. You’ll find rocky outcrops, forests and canyons. The Orne river has carved dramatic meanders and gorges into the rocks of this beautiful region, and with the highest hills of over 1,000 ft, it is the most elevated area in Normandy. Whether you’re into canoeing, kayaking, hiking or rock-climbing, this wild, hilly stretch of the Orne valley to the south of Caen is fabulous for all lovers of outdoor adventure.

Things to see and do

Check out the village of Clécy, capital of the Suisse Normande. Here there is everything for those that love sports – canoeing or kayaking on the river, hiring boats or paddle-boats. Just walking along the river bank to admire the viaduct and the village is an excellent way to enjoy the area. You can also explore one of the highest points in the area known as the Pain de Sucre (sugarloaf) and for something more adventurous, check out the Via Ferrata, a sheer cliff 50m up! Terra Firma also offers plenty of great hiking trails in the Suisse Normande. And if you enjoy golfing, check out the Clecy golf course for a fantastic panoramic view of the Suisse Normande.

Discover the Roche d’Oëtre, which offers amazing panoramic views over the Rouvre gorges, located south of the village of Pont-d’Ouilly. This area is 387 ft. above sea level, and boasts a magnificent view on every side, just be careful when approaching the edge of the cliff! There is a two-hour hiking circuit that will give you a real appreciation for the great Oetre Rock.

By car, you can follow a signed itinerary, passing through villages such as Thury Harcourt, Conde sur Noireau, Pont d’Ouilly and more! The circuit sometimes plunges through gorges and rocky escarpments, sometimes through bubbling water of the Orne River. Visitors can also stop off at numerous other places: the gardens at the chateau d’Harcourt, the park and garden at the chateau de la Motte in Acqueille, viewpoints over the Orne valley, open air centers, chateau Pontecoulant, the miniature railway at Clecy, and the museums of the Fosses d’Enfer at St Remy sur Orne, to name a few!

Thury-Harcourt is the northern gateway to Suisse Normande. Here you’ll find a major castle and discover the significant industrial past, with tanneries and enamelling factories. The village was destroyed by German forces in 1944, so it has been entirely rebuilt after the war. The ruined castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens that sit beside the Orne River.

Château de la Motte is definitely worth a visit. Constructed between 1598 and 1614, this magnificent castle is a great example of the early French classical architecture. The castle’s gardens are also worth a visit, along with the Romanesque church in nearby Acquiville.

Saint-Rémy-sur-Orne was a location which was rich in iron and extracted from pits known as Les Fosses d’Enfer (or Pits of Hell). Today it is home to the Musée des Fosses d’Enfer and Normandy Geological Resource Center. Discover the stories of Normandy’s geology and learn stories of the lives of the local miners.

Saint-Omer is known for its Romanesque church, as well as the remains of Abbaye duVal, a former Augustinin establishment. Also, the site of Saint-Clair’s Chapel offers beautiful views of the plansi of Falaise and Caen towards the sea.

Active and Outdoors

If you’re looking for some action-packed fun in the great outdoors on the Alabaster Coast, you will love the diversity of this area. Exciting natural landscapes and dramatic coastal cliffs make for perfect adventure playgrounds, with amazing beaches, trails and islands and some fantastic watersports to enjoy.

The 80-miles of coast has always given the will to sail on the open sea. Sailing, windsurfing, kite surfing, every water sport can be done here. The exigent water area is great for any experienced sportsmen and women as the novice ones, who will train with the watersports centers instructors.

From the seaside to the countryside, there is only one step. There are many hiking and cycling trails linked together. By foot, riding a bike, a mountain bike or even a horse from Le Havre to Le Tréport, the coastal paths and the coastal Véloroute (cycling trail) allow you to enjoy the smells, the colors and the traditions of two opposite natures that characterize the Alabaster Coast as a unique and beautiful place.

Cuisine

Normandy’s culinary heritage is one that’s well worth exploring, offering a wide range of fantastic ingredients produced in the region. Here you’ll find the freshest seafood (mussels and oysters in particular), robust duck and game dishes, and the region’s famous apples that are turned into a whole range of tasty treats from cider to tarts. The region is also known for its dairy products, like butter, milk, cream and cheese. Most restaurants in Normandy offer locally sourced products and try to support as many regional farmers as possible. Even the smallest village will offer memorable culinary treats for any serious foodie.