Top places to visit in the Pays d’Auge, in the heart of Calvados

Favourite spots around Château de Martragny

Martragny is the epitome of the Bessin’s rural elegance: apple-lined lanes, history-rich beaches, and a gentle atmosphere where time seems to slow down. Here, managers Marielle & Médéric share their tried-and-tested outings.

Les Vergers de Ducy – Ducy-Sainte-Marguerite

If you love local produce, this is THE place you cannot miss. At Les Vergers de Ducy, apples are cultivated like an ancestral craft: cider, juice, vinegar, Pommeau… everything is certified organic, and guided tours take you behind the scenes of Normandy’s traditional production methods.
Not to miss:

• Don’t leave without trying their famous oak-aged cider vinegar — many Normandy chefs source theirs here!
• For families, the little sensory trail around the orchard is a real hit with children.

The Arromanches landing museum… and especially its rooftop!

The museum is essential for grasping the incredible ingenuity behind the Arromanches artificial harbour, but Marielle & Médéric insist: head up to the rooftop. The view of the MULBERRY harbour remains is absolutely unique.
Unusual tip:

• Arrive just before low tide to watch the concrete blocks gradually emerge… a magical and highly photogenic moment.
• The rooftop is also ideal for a panoramic coffee break.

The Gardens of Château de Brécy: a Baroque Gem in Normandy

Lesser known than Vaux-le-Vicomte, yet just as spectacular, the Brécy gardens are a 17th-century treasure. Sculpted terraces, perfectly clipped boxwood, sweeping perspectives: a refined escape worthy of the finest historical novels.
Our advice:

• Photography lovers should come in late afternoon — the low light perfectly highlights the monumental staircases.
• Note that the garden isn’t open daily: check the timetable to avoid disappointment.

A Coastal Walk from Asnelles to Arromanches

A simple, accessible walk — and breathtakingly beautiful. The path follows golden beaches, modest cliffs, and viewpoints over the Channel. As a bonus, you’ll pass through the charming village of Asnelles, famous for its irresistible shortbread.
Gourmet tip:
Stop by the Asnelles biscuit factory — their shortbread is renowned throughout Normandy.
For swimmers: Asnelles is one of the quietest beaches in the area.

Must-See Places Around Camping du Brévedent

Now heading into the Pays d’Auge: half-timbered houses, manor houses, rolling green valleys and villages full of charm. Jessica & Raphaël Bony, passionate managers of Le Brévedent, share their favourite routes for a truly local stay.

The cider route: the ultimate Pays d’Auge cxperience

It winds through the most beautiful landscapes in Calvados: manors hidden among greenery, winding country lanes, peaceful herds… and above all, welcoming cider producers proud of their craft.
It’s not a road — it’s an experience.
Useful tip:

• Allow at least half a day: each producer takes the time to explain their cuvées.
• Some estates even offer orchard tours or tasting workshops.

The Basilica of Lisieux: a spiritual giant

Impressive from the outside yet incredibly calming inside, the Basilica of Saint Thérèse is one of the largest churches built in the 20th century. It attracts both believers and architecture enthusiasts.
Quiet tip:

• Visit in the morning: the light shines through the stained glass and illuminates the entire nave.
• Combine with a stroll through the town centre — there are excellent bakeries for an afternoon treat.

Beuvron-en-Auge: one of France’s most beautiful villages

It feels almost made for Instagram: perfect half-timbered houses, a flowered square, artisan shops, small cafés… It’s one of Jessica & Raphaël’s favourite stops.
Unusual tip:

• Pop into an artisan shop for a homemade salted butter caramel.
• The seasonal farmers’ market is a delight for stocking up on local produce.

Honfleur: the unmissable artistic harbour

Few places are as charming as the Vieux Bassin, with its narrow façades, art galleries and sailboats reflecting in the water. Honfleur remains THE place to stroll, have a drink, or simply admire.
Our advice:

• Avoid the port at 2pm in peak summer: choose the morning or late afternoon instead, when the light is softer and the streets calmer.
• Walk up to the Côte de Grâce for a panoramic viewpoint often overlooked by visitors.

Martragny & Brévedent: two campsites, two atmospheres… One shared spirit of discovery

What stands out when you combine the suggestions from both teams is how many ways there are to explore Calvados:
• by the sea, around Martragny — D-Day history, sweeping viewpoints, baroque gardens and sea-air strolls;
• in the countryside, around Le Brévedent — lush valleys, picturesque villages and passionate local producers.
Whether you love nature walks, authentic tastings, historical sites or cultural visits, the Castels managers in Calvados offer you the very best of their region.