Sallenelles walks

A birdwatching site of great beauty, the bay of the Orne estuary is now protected by the Conservatoire du Littoral. The Maison de la Nature, several observatories and a network of footpaths showcase this unmissable natural area. Moderator's note See the review dated 21/02/2022: work in progress on this hike

Take a lovely coastal path and watch the local and migratory birds, pass by the Redoute de Merville, built in 1760 under Louis XVI based on plans by Vauban, walk along the beach, climb up to the Atlantic Wall coastal battery, cross the horse parks with foals depending on the season, stroll through the countryside... this is what you will discover on this hike. Don't forget your binoculars. The hike should be done when the tidal coefficient is below 80.

After strolling through the streets of the famous Balbec and exploring its beautiful beach, set off to discover the marshes of the hinterland. In spring, they sparkle with golden irises and are perfumed by the myriad hawthorn flowers so dear to Proust.

Beautiful hike in the Normandy countryside, passing through Gonneville-sur-Mer and the Houlgate golf course to the ledge and view of the coast from the orientation table.

Discover the Falaises des Vaches Noires (Black Cow Cliffs) from the heights and the shore. They are so named because of the limestone blocks piled up on the beach and covered with black seaweed, which make them look like cows. The Falaises des Vaches Noires were already renowned in the 18th century for their fossils and exceptional stratigraphy. Many fossils can be identified in the sand (please note that digging in the cliffs is prohibited). A FEW PRECAUTIONS:- The beach is not accessible at high tide. It is essential to check the tide times before setting off. Only enter the beach at low tide, 3 to 4 hours after high tide. See Practical information. - It is forbidden to climb the cliffs or remove fossils. However, you may collect fossils that are exposed on the surface of the sand.

For a walk in the countryside with a few hills in "trenches".

An amazing setting in the middle of nature and on the outskirts of Caen. Passing over and under the ring road reminds us of the proximity of the big city, which you forget as you cross the Odon six times via footbridges, old railway bridges and a ford. The path is popular with joggers. The "Course entre deux O" race follows part of this route in November.

Graye-sur-Mer beach was part of the Juno Beach sector during the landings on 6 June 1944. It was liberated by Canadian troops. The return journey from Ver to Graye takes you partly through marshland sheltered behind a narrow strip of dunes.

A very pleasant walk around Blonville-Sur-Mer, passing through the marshes and Mont Canisy.

A superb hike west of Beaumont-en-Auge in Calvados

Starting from the seafront, you will pass by the Clairefontaine racecourse, Mont Canisy, Clos Mallet and the Villers marshes. Return via the Mont Canisy batteries and the seafront.

A charming walk combining forests, wooded paths, streams, mills, hamlets, beautiful stone buildings, fields and meadows, with a few small climbs. Very pleasant to do from spring, when the vegetation comes to life, until autumn, when it bursts into shades of yellow, ochre and red. Apart from the section from Le Pissot to the hamlet of Touchet (1 km), there are virtually no roads to walk on, although it is sometimes difficult to avoid them.

This heritage trail immerses you in medieval society alongside knights, monks and peasants. In the 11th century, in the Cinglais region, Boulon was part of the powerful seigneury of RaoulI Taisson, who built the Château de Thuit there, the seat of seigneurial power. Between forest and heritage, the Boulon discovery trail reveals traces of this medieval past. This trail is marked in blue with signs reading "Heritage Trail - Boulon in the Middle Ages".

The Orne valley, upstream from the city of Caen. This circuit invites you to discover both banks of the Orne River north of Thury-Harcourt. Description and route slightly out of date in places, see reviews for alternatives

Ouffières welcomes you to a large square beautifully decorated with flowers. You can then set off to discover magnificent stone houses before following the Orne River as it winds its way through the Swiss Normandy.