The most beautiful villages in Calvados to discover

Normandy is a region rich in history and picturesque landscapes. Today, we’re focusing on the most beautiful villages in Calvados, a department of undeniable charm. From the coast to the verdant countryside, these villages offer an idyllic setting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

Beuvron-en-Auge: The village in bloom

Set in the heart of the Normandy countryside, Beuvron-en-Auge is a haven of peace. This typical village has retained its old-world charm, with half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. Listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, it is also renowned for its many flower gardens, which add a touch of colour to the whole. Be sure to try a glass of cider in one of the village cellars, a must-taste local product.

Must-sees in Beuvron-en-Auge :

• Saint-Martin church, a jewel of Romanesque architecture
• The cider museum, for everything you need to know about this emblematic drink of Normandy
• The potters’ market, an annual gathering of local craftspeople

Honfleur: the city of painters

Situated on the seafront, Honfleur is a harbour town of undeniable charm. Closely linked to the history of painting, it has inspired many artists, including Monet and Boudin. Honfleur offers a maze of narrow, winding streets lined with stone and half-timbered houses, as well as small shops and art galleries.

Honfleur must-sees :

• The Vieux Bassin, the historic heart of the port
• Sainte-Catherine church, built entirely of wood
• The Eugène Boudin museum, which traces the history of painting in the region

Arromanches-les-Bains: witness to the D-Day landings

A true symbol of the Second World War, Arromanches-les-Bains is a village steeped in history. Situated on the D-Day landing beaches, today it is a place of remembrance where the remains of the war still stand. Don’t miss the D-Day museum, where you can relive the events that shaped the history of the 20th century.

Arromanches must-sees:

• The D-Day beaches, for a moment of remembrance
• The 360° circular cinema, offering an immersive film on the D-Day Landings and the Battle of Normandy
• The fish market, where you can sample fresh local seafood products

Must-do walks in Calvados

As well as its picturesque villages, Calvados also offers a wealth of walking opportunities to make the most of the surrounding countryside. The Guide du Routard recently included three walks in Normandy in its top 50 most beautiful walks in France: the GR21 in Seine-Maritime, the GR223 in Cotentin and the GR de Pays Suisse Normande.

Some suggestions for walks:

• La balade des Moulins, a walking trail along several water mills
• The coastal path, a walk along the cliffs offering a breathtaking view of the sea
• Les chemins du Mont-Saint-Michel, a historic route linking Bayeux to the famous monastic site

Whether you want to explore the history, admire the architecture or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Calvados is full of treasures to discover on your next trip to Normandy.