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.

Starting from Merville-Franceville-Plage, enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside and the marshes, but also soak up the seaside atmosphere of this renowned seaside resort. Along the way, you will discover the architectural and, above all, historical heritage, notably the Merville Battery, a key site of the June 1944 landings (9th Battalion of the6th Airborne).

Leaving Gonneville-en-Auge, in the countryside, follow the Bay of Sallenelles and the River Orne. You will then pass the Merville Batteries.

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".

Our elders remember walking these often shady paths many times, which led to pastures and farms. Donkeys pulled carts along them at milking time, farmers drove their cattle up them from Croissanville, children in clogs used them to get to school or forgot to do so, and love blossomed there...

Beuvron-en-Auge is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. With its half-timbered houses and old market hall, restaurants, cafés and artisans, it is a relaxing stopover in the heart of the bocage.

This walk passes through villages with remarkable architecture and also crosses rural areas along the Vey and Mue rivers.

Route around Fontaine-Henry Castle. Halfway between the city of Caen and the D-Day beaches, Fontaine-Henry Castle overlooks the green valley of the Mue. Its vertiginously high roofs tower above the centuries-old trees in the park and crown a richly sculpted façade combining 15th- and 16th-century styles.

Hike in the Pays d'Auge countryside with a passage through the commune of Saint-Vaast.

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.

From May-sur-Orne, cross the fields, stroll through wooded areas, follow the Laize and Orne valleys and return via Saint-André-sur-Orne.

This hike mainly follows the Coupe-Gorge stream, which runs through the Grimbosq forest. It is a very pleasant walk in autumn as it follows a small path that is rarely used by walkers.