What to see and do in Normandy

Normandy is a region of France with so much to offer the visitor with its rich history and heritage, delightful coast and countryside and plenty of activities for all ages.  If you like to get your adrenalin pumping whilst on holiday there are thrill seeking activities too and throughout the year there are events and exhibitions.  Below is just a taste of what to see and do ... and there is a detailed information pack in the gite with more information.

Normandy History and Heritage - Le patrimoine normand

Where do we start?  There are just so many choices when it comes to historical tourist sites.  No stay here should be complete without a visit to Mont St Michel, Bayeux and at least one castle.  We would recommend Falasie Castle, the birthplace of William the Conqueror, with some really innovative interactive displays.  For those interested in World War II our closest beaches are the D-Day Landing Beaches and there are numerous war cemeteries, museums and routes to follow throughout the region. 

Normandy Countryside - La campagne de Normandie

Normandy is a very rural region of France beautiful at all times of year.  Eco-Gites of Lenault is in an area termed Le Bocage, characterised by small fields, hedgerows and woodland; cattle graze beneath the apple blossom in spring and in autumn, apples adorn these same trees.  We are also on the edge of Swiss Normandy famous for its cracky outcrops, rivers and fantastic views. 

For active types there is an extensive network of local footpaths starting with GR221 which passes our back gate.  You can also cycle on these paths.  There are swimming pools in all the local towns with adult and children's pools, slides and bubble areas.  If you want to have a go at horse riding there are 2 riding stables nearby and several up on the coast where you get the chance to gallop through the waves!

Normandy's flora and fauna are wonderful. Roadside verges and paths are full of wild flowers and with so many varied habitats there are abundant birds and animals to see.  Hares, red squirrels, buzzards, bats, butterflies are all common occurrences and if you are lucky you may spot a wild boar, black woodpecker or other rarity.

The Normandy Coast - La côte normande

The north Normandy coast has wide sandy beaches and calm seas and life guards patrol the most popular beaches in high season.  Dogs are allowed on a few beaches all year round and on all beaches in low season, although you will need to check specific dates for any given beach.

Family Activities in  Normandy - pour la famille en Normandie

Normandy caters brilliantly for its younger (and not so young!) visitors - within easy driving distance of the gite there are zoos, open farms, soft play areas, tree top walks, theme parks and a miniature railway.  Castles are always popular to visit and the Chateau de Pontécoulant is just 5 minutes down the road. Falaise Castle, birthplace of William the Conquerer is close-by.  For something a bit different have a go at the local Vélorails where you cycle on specially adapted cycle carts along old railway lines.  There are swimming pools in all the local towns with adult and children's pools, slides and bubble areas.

For Thrill Seekers - Pour les sensations fortes en Normandie

If you really want to get your adrenalin pumping how about a trip to Clécy (the capital of Swiss Normandy) and have a go at the Via Ferrata Cliff side walk, rock climbing, luge (dry toboccan run), canoeing or paragliding?  At the Viaduct de la Souleuvre you can bungee jump or fly over the river on some of Europe's largest swings.  Are you brave enough?

Events and Exhibitions in Normandy - Les spectacles de Normandie

Not a month passes without some event or exhibition taking place locally.  From seafood festivals to World War II displays, art exhibitions to equine demonstrations you are sure to find something that will grab your attention.  There are boot fairs and brocantes from spring to autumn, Christmas markets in December and markets daily in nearby towns throughout the year.

Our blog gives regular updates on what is going on locally so do have a read.  Click here to head to the blog.

Distances from Eco-Gites of Lenault to Popular Normandy Attractions