In the Suisse Normande (‘Norman Switzerland’ in English) you’re bound to feel closer to nature. Whether you’re into canoeing, kayaking, hiking or rock-climbing, this wild, hilly stretch of the Orne valley to the south of Caen is fantastic for all manner of outdoor activities, with dramatic panoramic views that you will fall in love with.
Why visit the Suisse Normande region?
The Orne river has carved dramatic meanders and gorges into the rocks of the area known as the Suisse Normande. The highest hills in these parts reach over 1,000 feet, making these the most elevated spots in Normandy.
Sports enthusiasts will find plenty of active sports to try out in the Suisse Normande, with the Orne river attracting canoeists, both amateur and professional. The area even hosted the canoe polo world championships in 2014. Angling is another popular, albeit quieter pursuit on the water, and the cliffs and hills overhead attract rock-climbers and hikers.
There are endless places to cycle, go horse-riding and walk in the Suisse Normande, from relaxing strolls to full-on hikes. This area is also renowned for picturesque rock climbing locations such as the Rochers des Parcs in Clécy. The Suisse Normande also has its relaxing side, with cosy riverside hotels and restaurants and picturesque villages perching on the slopes.
A much-loved hiking trail
In 2023, the sixth edition of the ‘GR Préféré des Français’ competition, organised by the French Hiking Federation, crowned the GR foothpath ’Pays Tour de la Suisse Normande’, a 113-km loop straddling the departments of Calvados and Orne, in the heart of the sumptuous hilly landscapes of the Suisse Normande. The mountains and valleys are full of unsuspected treasures that deserve to be discovered. Hikers flock to the area to discover this natural territory par excellence, with its exceptional panoramic landscapes, between valleys, rocky massifs and meanders of the Orne.
Don’t miss
01
Clécy
The lovely slope-side village of Clécy is dominated by a dramatic outcrop known as the Pain de Sucre (Sugarloaf), as well as by the Lande Viaduct. The Church of Saint-Pierre, with origins going back to the 15th century, was given imposing transepts and choir in the 19th century. The village features interesting houses and manors that reflect Clécy’s importance in the region. Down by the Orne, in the adjoining village of Le Vey, the river and riverside restaurants are extremely popular. For sporting types there’s also the golf course and the summer toboggan track.
02
Rochers des Parcs
These dramatic cliffs opposite Clécy lay bare the geology of the area. They are popular with hikers and are surrounded by fine moorland. Rock-climbers love them too, enjoying numerous routes up the rock-faces
03
Thury-Harcourt and Le Hom
Northern gateway to the Suisse Normande, Thury-Harcourt had a major castle and a significant industrial past, with tanneries and enamelling factories. However, the village was destroyed by German forces in 1944, so it had to be entirely rebuilt after the war. The ruined castle is surrounded by enchanting gardens beside the Orne River.
04
The Souleuvre Viaduct
The Souleuvre Viaduct is a well-known spot for thrill-seekers who come here for bungee jumping.
05
The Roche d’Oëtre
The great Oëtre Rock rising above the Rouvre River, south of the village of Pont-d’Ouilly, boasts one of the finest viewpoints in Normandy. To appreciate this wild place, where the shapes of the rocks spark the imagination, follow the two-hour hiking circuit.
06
Pont-d’Ouilly
Located 18 km from Falaise, the birthplace of William the Conqueror, this green resort is a benchmark for outdoor activities. It has one of the largest leisure centres in the Suisse Normande region, particularly for kayak hire. A visit to the Château Guillaume le Conquérant in Falaise is also a must.
As well as…
- Putanges-le-Lac: A very typical village, once built on a hillside overlooking a bend in the river.
- Château de la Motte: This magnificent listed building was constructed between 1598 and 1614, and is a good example of early French classical architecture. The castle’s gardens are well worth seeing, as is the fine Romanesque church in nearby Acqueville.
- Saint-Rémy-sur-Orne: Here, the earth was rich in iron ore, which was extracted from pits known as Les Fosses d’Enfer (or Pits of Hell) from 1460 until 1968. Now the Musée des Fosses d’Enfer and Normandy Geological Resource Centre relate Normandy’s geological story as well as charting the lives of the local miners. Notre-Dame Chapel, with its altar placed on a mining truck, was built by miners in the 20th century.
A different way to discover the Suisse Normande
Our selection of Normandy Experiences
Normandy Experiences are local gems that add meaning to your trip. You’ll meet Normandy people who are truly passionate about what they do.
Exploring the Outdoors: A Sporty Weekend in Suisse Normande
Thury-Harcourt
The Thrill of Bungee Jumping from the Viaduc de la Souleuvre
Souleuvre en Bocage
Major events in the Suisse Normande
- 100% Sports Nature (early April): A sporty weekend
- Les Extraverties Festival: A major event for lovers of outdoor activities. Held at La Roche d’Oëtre and Pont-d’Ouilly..
- Château Ganne Medieval Festival (end June, every other year)
Useful information for your stay
How do I get to the Suisse Normande?
- By train: From Paris, Caen and Flers stations offer connections to Suisse Normande via route 117 of the Nomad Car network.
- En car : From Caen or Flers, line 117 of the Nomad Car network crosses the Suisse Normande. From Caen, other Nomad Car routes serve the towns of Suisse Normande.
- By bike: The Suisse Normande is crossed by the VéloFrancette, a cycle route linking Ouistreham and La Rochelle.