3. Courtils Trail – Starting point: Bouquelon Church

Starting from Bouquelon, this route crosses one of Normandy’s most distinctive landscapes: the Marais Vernier, a Ramsar-designated wetland renowned for its exceptional ecological richness and considered unique in France. A vast mosaic of wet meadows, marshes and reed beds stretches as far as the eye can see, framed by densely wooded hills that form a natural amphitheatre.

The trail runs alongside one of France’s largest peat bogs, where the courtils—long, narrow plots bordered by ditches and trees—create a landscape unlike any other. Traditional thatched farms dot the countryside, reflecting generations of inhabitants who learned to live in harmony with water and wetlands.

Bouquelon is also home to a remarkable architectural heritage. The Château du Plessis Estate, listed as a Historic Monument, stands out for its richness and diversity. It includes a manor house, a dovecote, woodlands and the Saint-Eustache Chapel, which houses paintings by Symon Gredovin dating from 1608. A Neo-Gothic funerary chapel designed by architect Jacques-Eugène Barthélémy was added in 1844.

The Saint-Ouen Church, also listed as a Historic Monument, completes this heritage ensemble. Built in the 11th century under the patronage of the Lord of Roys, it still preserves its original western portal and a medieval window, discreet witnesses to more than nine centuries of history.

A route where exceptional nature and remarkable heritage combine to reveal the unique character of the Marais Vernier.