Discover the most beautiful villages around Caen

Are you looking for the most beautiful villages to discover around Caen? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we present seven villages that are absolutely worth a visit. Each has its own personality and special features, so let our selection be your guide to making the most of your stay in the region.

1. Beuvron-en-Auge: The pearl of Calvados

Beuvron-en-Auge is a real gem nestling in the heart of the Pays d’Auge. This picturesque village, listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages, offers an idyllic setting with its half-timbered houses, flower-filled lanes and small shops. Be sure to take a stroll along the Grand’Rue, where you can admire the remarkable architecture of the buildings and visit the shops of local craftsmen.

The village is also renowned for its local produce, notably cider and calvados. You can sample these specialities in the village’s cellars and distilleries, and why not take a few bottles home as a souvenir of your visit. Finally, if you’re a nature-lover, the rolling, green countryside around the area offers some wonderful opportunities for walking and cycling.

2. Barfleur: A sea voyage

Barfleur is a charming fishing village on the east coast of the Cotentin peninsula. Its picturesque port, surrounded by granite houses with slate roofs, is a haven of peace. Stroll along the quays to admire the fishing boats and seagulls, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this timeless place.

The village also boasts a rich historical heritage, including the 14th-century Gothic church of Saint-Nicolas and the Vauban tower, which offers a magnificent panoramic view over the Bay of Barfleur. For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to try the delicious Barfleur mussels, a local speciality renowned for its flavour and quality.

3. Le Bec-Hellouin: An oasis of serenity

The village of Le Bec-Hellouin, in the Risle valley, is a haven of peace and serenity. Surrounded by lush green countryside, it offers an enchanting setting with half-timbered houses, flower-filled gardens and a Benedictine abbey founded in the 11th century. The latter, a listed historic monument, is a must-see when visiting the village, with its imposing buildings and peaceful cloister.

Le Bec-Hellouin is also the starting point for a number of walks and horse-rides, taking in the surrounding forests, meadows and rivers. A real invitation to relax and contemplate nature in this exceptional village.

4. Lyons-la-Forêt: A forest wonderland

Lyons-la-Forêt, nestling in the heart of one of the most beautiful beech forests in Europe, is a charming, picturesque village with a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Its cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and flower-filled squares give the village an undeniable charm.

Be sure to visit the 18th-century covered market, where you can stock up on local produce. The village is also the ideal starting point for exploring the Lyons forest, an unspoilt natural area offering many opportunities for walking, horse-riding and cycling. Finally, for history buffs, a visit to the Château de Fleury-la-Forêt, just a few kilometres from the village, will immerse you in the refined atmosphere of the 17th century.

5. Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei: A living tableau

Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei is a small village with a bucolic charm, situated in the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park. It was voted one of the most beautiful villages in France, and it’s easy to see why as you stroll through its narrow, flower-filled streets. The stone houses and carefully tended gardens create a veritable tableau vivant, which has inspired many painters over the centuries.

The village is also rich in historical heritage, with its 11th-century Romanesque church and medieval bridge spanning the River Sarthe. For art lovers, a visit to the studio of the painter Jules Lefranc is a must. Finally, the surrounding green countryside offers plenty of opportunities for walks and cycle rides, for a total immersion in Norman nature.

6. Veules-les-Roses: A coastal enchantment

Veules-les-Roses is a timelessly charming coastal village on the Côte d’Albâtre in Seine-Maritime. Nestling between the chalk cliffs and the sea, it offers an enchanting setting in which to stroll and recharge your batteries. Narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses lead to flower-filled gardens and the banks of the River Veules, the smallest river in France.

As you stroll along, you’ll come across the water mill, the church of Saint-Martin and the remains of the medieval castle. Don’t miss a stroll along the beach, where you can admire the impressive chalk cliffs and collect shells. Finally, for food lovers, Veules-les-Roses is famous for its oysters, which you can sample in the village’s restaurants and shacks.

7. Clécy: Norman Switzerland

Clécy, in the Calvados region, is often referred to as the “Suisse Normande” (Norman Switzerland) because of its rolling green countryside. This picturesque village on the banks of the River Orne offers a wide variety of landscapes and activities for lovers of nature and the great outdoors. Stroll through the narrow streets and admire the stone houses and flower gardens, which bear witness to the local expertise in architecture and landscaping.

Clécy is also a popular spot for outdoor sports such as canoeing, climbing, hiking and paragliding. The cliffs, gorges of the River Orne and hiking trails provide an ideal playground for adventure and thrill-seekers. Finally, don’t miss a visit to the Château de La Landelle, a medieval edifice perched on a rocky outcrop, offering uninterrupted views over the Orne valley.

Why visit the area around Caen?

The Caen region offers a wealth and diversity of landscapes, heritage and culture that are well worth exploring. The villages we’ve featured in this article are just a taste of what you can discover on the roads of Normandy. Each one offers a unique and authentic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history, gastronomy and nature of this exceptional region.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure or cultural discovery, the area around Caen will win you over with its charm and authenticity. So don’t hesitate, set off to discover these enchanting villages and let yourself be carried away by the magic of Normandy!