If Lisieux, its capital, is world famous for its Sainte-Thérèse basilica, there are good places to eat lunch, listen to a concert, go shopping or get supplies in a city center, in full renovation. In the surrounding valleys, cross the small roads bordered by arbors. In autumn and winter, when the vegetation is less dense, you can see charming Norman houses, pretty mansions, chapels and medieval castles, out of time.
The villages, hamlets and localities of the region are home to many charming and gastronomic addresses, sheltered from the crowds of large Norman seaside towns that can be reached quickly for a seaside getaway.
In the preserved villages of Saint-Pierre-en-Auge, Orbec or Cambremer, one can admire the local architecture (half-timbered house, village squares, mansions, churches), meet artists and craftsmen or taste good products from the Calvados (cheeses, ciders, jams, chocolate, etc.).
Spring is the ideal season to visit the Pays d’Auge, admire the apple trees in blossom, hike or cycle in this bocage landscape where the Norman sheep and cows graze quietly. It is also the season to visit the gardens of the region and one of the oldest tree fairs, to hunt in flea markets and local markets, to walk the botanical paths or to take part in nature outings to discover the fauna and flora of the hedges and ponds. Early in the day, you can see the horses training in the many stud farms scattered throughout the territory. Several equestrian centers offer horseback excursions. In summer, the region remains lush and the temperatures pleasant. You can go kayaking in the river to explore La Touques and La Dives. Several festivals punctuate the season (AOC / AOP Festival, Jazzitudes … etc.).
The visit of medieval castles, cider farms, a chocolate factory or the Cerza animal park will thrill children and adolescents. Rare animals: rhinoceros, bears, wolves, otters roam there in semi-freedom in a landscape where visitors wander on foot, in peace. You can even spend the night in lodges on the lookout for animal cries.
Nature activities and discovery trails (Route des Caves, Route des Manoirs et Châteaux, etc.) allow you to discover more in depth a territory that combines economic dynamism, art of living and preservation of the environment throughout the year. . A destination with low environmental impact and high oxygen content!
