Nature escape at Camping du Relais, Merville-franceville-plage

Starting from Merville-Franceville by taking the Vélomaritime cycle route, follow the canal and cross the river via Pegasus Bridge, a strategic point of the D-Day landings, as you go along the water to reach Caen.

"Set off and discover the D-Day heritage sites, Sallenellesbay and the area’s charmingly picturesque villages. Take to your cycles for a 16km tour! "

Ride along the coast on the Vélomaritime for a bike ride from Merville-Franceville to Cabourg.

From Caen, follow the canal and cross the river via Pegasus Bridge, a strategic point of the D-Day landings. Along the river, join Merville-Franceville by taking the Vélomaritime cycle route.

At high tide, the Gros Banc is home to a vast array of bird species, which you can watch from the Beaulieu observatory in Merville-Franceville. Crossing the barriers and entering the Gros Banc is prohibited. This round-trip is available during tides with a coefficient under 80.

Departing from Le Hôme Varaville, make your way along the beach before crossing the line of dunes towards the marshes. This rest area so close to the sea offers a safe haven to migratory birds. It is also a lively landscape marked by traditional activities.

ID Travel’s criteria: - Clients: couples or groups (adults, seniors) - Budget: 700€ maximum - Length of stay: 8 days, 7 nights - Accommodation: cosy hotels - Km/day: 45 to 50km (max. 70km)

Fital Vakanties’s criteria: - Accommodation: hotels *** (high capacity) - Type of clientele : seniors/groups - Length of stay: 8 to 15 days - Km/day: 45 to 60km, easy roads - Any type of circuit

On the night of the 5th to 6th June 1944, Allied paratroops were dropped throughout the zone covered by this trail. Their mission was to reduce the Merville artillery battery to silence. Unfortunately, this marshy zone reduced the original contingent by two thirds. In memory of the young liberators who fell in the early hours of D-Day, commemorative steles are decked with crowns of poppies every year, to symbolise the sacrifice of these British troops.

"After having walked along the seafront, you will reach the Orne bay, a natural area offering a wealth of fauna and flora. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Petite Somme’, the bay offers a prime refuge and a haven of peace for the migratory birds that rest here on their long journey. You will also discover the small village of Sallenelles, the history of which is intimately linked with life in the bay.

Le Coudray is in an old farmhouse 300 m from the village of La Pallu, near the forest, 9 km from Pré-en-Pail, 30 km from Alençon, 12 km from La Ferté-Macé, 9 km from Couterne and 14 km from Bagnoles de l'Orne, a spa town. Thérèse, who loves the countryside, welcomes you to her haven of peace. You will be staying in a bedroom on the first floor of the house. Private bathroom with shower, WC, vanity unit and hairdryer. Indoor or outdoor breakfast, table and chairs in front of the house or at the back in a wooded park. There are a number of restaurants, the nearest of which is 4 km away (Couptrain). Thérèse, who knows the area inside out, will be delighted to give you information and advice on your visits and, if you wish, to accompany you on short walks in the surrounding area. La chambre d'hôtes du Coudray is 4.3 km from the Véloscénie, on the Alençon / Bagnoles-de-l'Orne via Carrouges stage, exit before St-Patrice du Désert (lieu-dit "le Plessis") then take the D241.

If you're looking for a wellness break in an unspoilt natural setting, with friends or family, the Moulin de Cordouen, between Mayenne and Orne, offers a quality service with its sauna and Nordic bath on the River Mayenne. The Moulin has been redesigned by an architect to offer spacious accommodation in every room, with bay windows to take advantage of the waterfall and the landscape. The two stone buildings are linked by a glass roof and completely surrounded by wooden terraces. They can accommodate up to 10 people. On the ground floor, the living area - 58m² - is very bright and features a lounge area with large sofas, widescreen TV and pellet stove, a large dining table and an open-plan fitted kitchen, a utility room (washing machine, tumble dryer). A wellness area with sauna, Italian shower and separate toilet, open onto the Nordic bath terrace. Superb views of the river and hills. Sleeping area: 2 bedrooms (28m²), one with 1 double bed (160*200) and 1 single bed (90*200) and the other with 1 double bed (160*200), each with en suite facilities. Upstairs, 2 bedrooms, one with 1 160*200 bed and the second with 3 90*200 beds, a shower room with walk-in shower and wc. The full service includes bathroom linen, including bathrobes for adults, household linen, electricity, wood and pellets (heating). Optional: cleaning (120€), if you do not select this option when booking, a cleaning cheque must be deposited on arrival and returned at the end of your stay if the cleaning is completed. All shops in Pré-en-Pail Samson 7km away and many producers around the gîte (ask for advice on arrival). The spa town of Bagnoles de l'Orne is 19km away. Don't miss the fortified castle of Lassay-les-Châteaux with its 8 massive towers and drawbridge still in use!

A small, personal campsite on the edge of the Normandie Maine National Park, a site with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and the village of Couterne. Situated on the main road between Lassay-les-Chateaux (Petites Cités de Caractère) and the spa town of Bagnoles de l'Orne, on the border between the departments of Mayenne (Pays de la Loire) and Orne (Normandy). A warm welcome awaits explorers in caravans, motorhomes and tents, whether travelling with a motorised vehicle or on their own. Our pitches are spacious and bordered by hedges. They are ideal for families or couples to feel at home. We have two accommodation units available for hire. Our large and spacious mobile home is available for a minimum of 3 nights. Our smaller mobile home is available by the night and is ideal for couples, families with young children and walkers/cyclists. DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON SITE. The site is open from April to September.

Les Bruyères offers a comfortable setting with spacious rooms and a sheltered courtyard with barbecue and garden furniture. On the ground floor, you enter through the living room (28m²) with its wood-burning stove, a large TV with DTT and two sofas. The 25m² kitchen has a large fridge, dishwasher, washing machine, oven, microwave, 2 induction hobs and 2 gas hobs. The shower room has a walk-in shower, washbasin, storage space and hairdryer. Separate WC. Upstairs, 3 bedrooms. The 1st (34m²) has a 180*200 king-size bed, bath and WC, privacy screen and plenty of storage space. A 2nd green bedroom (18m²) with a 140*190 bed, chest of drawers and sofa bed. The last bedroom (8m²) with its four-poster bed has a 140*190 bed. In Neuilly-le-Vendin, you'll find a café-bar-restaurant with a bread counter and a hairdresser. More shops in Pré-en-Pail (12km) and La Ferté-Macé (15km). You are 13km from the spa town of Bagnoles de l'Orne and in the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park. You'll love the hiking trails and the nearby Véloscénie cycle route linking Paris to Mont Saint Michel. If you fancy a spot of fishing, there are plenty of opportunities in the village, with lakes and trout in the river.

In the Parc Naturel Régional Normandie Maine, country house for a family stay or a business stopover! The gite is fully equipped. The proximity and warm welcome of the owners are a plus for this gite. View of the countryside from the terrace, carport. The spa town of Bagnoles de l'Orne is 9km away, with a casino, acrobatic courses in the trees and a leisure centre. Discover Lassay les Châteaux (17km): its medieval castle, numerous events (theatre, concerts, etc.), rose garden and medieval garden. Neuilly le Vendin 800m away: bread shop in the morning. All shops and services in Couterne (6km) or Bagnoles de l'Orne (11km). Professional stay: 3 adults maximum - compulsory cleaning charge of €60 per stay of 1 to 14 nights, to be paid on arrival if not paid at time of booking. 1 or 2-night weekend stay: arrival at 5pm - departure at 5pm. For stays of 3 nights or more: arrival at 5pm - departure at 10am.

Explore the valleys of the Mayenne and discover La Petite Vallée gite in a rural setting. Everything you need to relax and indulge your senses! The 113m² gîte, with its 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 2 separate WCs, is fully restored, south-facing, detached and not overlooked. Ground floor: fitted kitchen opening onto the 52 m² living room with fireplace (wood-burning stove), flat-screen TV - 1 bedroom (1 double bed) - shower room (walk-in shower, washing machine, tumble dryer) - separate wc. 1st floor: 1 bedroom (1 x 160cm bed) - 1 bedroom (1 x 140cm bed and 1 x 90cm bed) - 1 bathroom - separate wc. Baby equipment available on request. Children can enjoy the swing set in the garden and the games available in the gîte. Wifi, very good network ideal for teleworking with Fibre and television. Parking, south-facing terrace, garden furniture, charcoal barbecue, wooded and landscaped grounds. Access path to the river La Mayenne with river fishing (fishing licence required). Hiking trails (GR22 C) and farmyard animals, goats and ponies nearby. 1 hour from Le Mans. Shops: Pré en Paille 7km - La Ferté-Macé: leisure centre -Bagnoles de l'Orne, 20km: casino, spa...golf.

- Discover a permaculture forest-garden -Fun and educational workshops - Discussions and lectures on environmental themes - Participative workcamps An atypical, tree-lined site with a change of scenery.

Creative activities, porcelain painting and classical concerts in summer

One of the Allied high command’s key targets on D-Day, the Merville Artillery Battery was put out of action by the British 9th Parachute Battalion. Within a preserved site covering several hectares, an educational trail takes you past 6 bunkers, now converted into museums. An example of the legendary Douglas C-47 that took part in the Normandy Landings is on display in the museum grounds.

The Merville redoubt, known as the 'Redoute de Vauban', is located in the dunes of the mouth of the River Orne. Its role was to protect the bay. Built on the orders of Louis XVI, it was equipped with three 24 pound cannons and a 3.5 kg mortar. Inside, the redoubt could accommodate up to thirty men. it is currently under restoration by the Association de Défense de l'Environnement et du Patrimoine de Merville-Franceville (Association for the Presevation of Merville-Franceville's Environment and Heritage).

The Nature and Estuary Visitor Centre is the property of the Calvados Council and is managed by the CPIE Vallée de l’Orne. It is a genuine gateway towards nature for one of the vastest natural protected areas in Calvados: the Orne estuary. This interpretation centre offers a fascinating insight into this preserved and highly diverse natural environment. It also organises temporary exhibitions associated with the coast and/or our region’s biodiversity, together with a programme of events, offering visitors a fun way to improve their understanding of nature! A certified ‘Family +’ attraction. Come and get back to nature over a breath of Normandy’s fresh sea air!

In Ouistreham, Lionel Sabatté cuts a series of blocks of Caen stone, selected from the quarry. The sculpture, several meters high, will be a strong visual landmark on the Ouistreham pier. A sculptor based in Normandy, Lionel Sabatté stands out for his use of raw, often unexpected materials (dust, fingernails, etc.). His work, marked by transformation, questions the complex relationship between man and his environment. In Ouistreham, the artist sculpts Caen stone, a material emblematic of the area?s development, which he has chosen straight from the quarry. He creates an ensemble mixing aquatic and animal forms, from sea turtles to flatfish, like fossils from a lost ocean. Engraved and notched, the blocks are arranged according to cardinal points, like a compass rose, a mineral and organic compass.

Set off and conquer the town’s red and white guardian: Ouistreham lighthouse! Take a deep breath and defy the 171 steps of its spiral staircase. Your efforts will be duly rewarded. From a height of 38 metres, marvel in the 360° panorama over the town and the horizon - as far as the eye can see. Make sure you take home a panoramic picture. And don’t forget, you can see them, but the boats out at sea can also see you, from 16 nautical miles away! You’ll probably see the Mont Saint-Michel or the Normandy - the Brittany Ferries car ferries that link Ouistreham Riva-Bella with Portsmouth - pass by. Open on Saturdays and Sundays from 2.30 to 6pm in July and August. Unaccompanied tour: €3

Along the seaside boulevard, near the beach, 5 picnic tables are available. Parking nearby. Natural setting under pine trees.

In this family restaurant with sea view, enjoy the new bright veranda. To name but one, the sauerkraut of the sea accompanied by three fresh fish and shellfish will make you fall over!

Located on the Côte Fleurie, in the heart of Merville-Franceville-Plage, the Lodge welcomes you in a contemporary setting just a few steps from the sea. The atmosphere is friendly, it is a good address to spend a moment of warm relaxation. The Lodge is a restaurant-bar with a modern terrace that offers a tasty and generous French cuisine and where the bill is wise... It is the formula that seduces everyone! The establishment makes every effort to satisfy its clientele and find shared pleasures. Come and discover its new interior decoration and its new terrace Your gustatory stroll will take you to the discovery of the unavoidable Normandy mussels with camembert sauce, home-made burgers, the 3 fishes sea sauerkraut and many other delights. For dessert, the chocolate fondant is more than seductive and everything is home made. Families are welcome in this restaurant labeled Famille plus.

Cédric and Séphora offer you fish and seafood platters or seafood specialities. You can also try their homemade terrines and risotto, pizzas, salads, burgers served on boards, Sicilian marmite, not forgetting their speciality of gambas brochettes with spices Le Billot, it's a world cuisine and flavours in every bite, just a step away from the beach of Merville-Franceville and in the heart of the resort.

Luc, Sandrine and Louis welcome you in a friendly establishment close to the sea After embellishing the Avenue Houdart, they offer you a new menu and a new look On the sunny outside terrace, on the heated terrace or in the dining room, a wide choice awaits you: pizzas, galettes, mixed salads, mussels and French fries as well as a range of desserts (crepes, ice cream sundaes and more). You can also try our whipped cream, salted caramel or chocolate - all homemade A treat, so let yourself be tempted!

BAR / BRASSERIE / TABAC / FDJ

The village brasserie offers sincere and authentic cuisine in a completely redesigned setting with a maritime accent. A warm welcome and a family atmosphere guaranteed! A must: a superb terrace ideally exposed.

At our place, it's a pleasure... Burgers, Fish & Chips, butcher's cuts, salads... Quality products carefully prepared. In the evening enjoy our delicious tapas and cocktails! Discover our terrace and enjoy the view on the sea. Labelled Family Plus, we welcome your children with adapted menus and a mini-golf formula.

Located on the Normandy coast near Cabourg, the Camping du Relais**** is quiet, friendly and "human size" (89 pitches). It offers you residential plots all year round and mobile home rentals with terraces. Bar-activity room, children's games, wild petanque and direct access to the sandy beach.

FAMILY & QUIET CAMPSITE *** With a direct access to the beach, this campsite welcomes caravans, tents, and motor homes. Mobile homes and Coco-Sweet (unusual accommodation between the tent and the mobile home) are available for rent. Heated sanitary facilities. Wifi (free) on the whole campsite. Baby-foot, petanque, ping-pong, board games and books available.

Open from April 1st to November 1st 2022. In Merville-Franceville, between Ouistreham and Cabourg, the Ariane campsite is green and quiet A few meters from the beach and close to shops and restaurants, it is an ideal starting point to visit Normandy, very rich in tourist sites (Deauville, Honfleur, D-Day beaches, Mont Saint Michel.. On the spot : bar, animation, bouncy castle, petanque field and sauna.

In the heart of the Côte Fleurie, the Camping du Point du Jour offers you the comfort, the animations and the services for an ideal family vacation. Our direct access to the sea will allow you to enjoy our fine sandy beach at any time of the day. Whether you want to relax with our wellness services, visit the D-Day landing beaches or do some sports with the outdoor activities offered, your vacation at Point du Jour will be a success.

Apartment classified 2* located in a residence with direct access to the sea. F2 in duplex of 30m2 with sea view, west exposure, 50 meters from the supervised beach in the town of Merville-Franceville. This apartment is located on the 1st floor of a quiet residence with trees. It is composed of a living room with lounge, dining table, sofa bed (2019), TV and storage space, as well as a fully equipped kitchen (oven, microwave, 2 coffee makers (one Senseo), kettle, toaster and all dishes for 4 people). On the first floor, a bathroom with bath/shower, a bedroom (Bultex mattress) with chest of drawers and closet (cot and high chair available on request). A library and board games for young and old. The apartment also has a balcony with garden furniture and barbecue for your lunches and dinners facing the sea (sunshine all afternoon). Ideal for a family of two adults and a child. Our friends the animals are welcome (on request).

On the Côte Fleurie, with direct access to the sea, in a pleasant family resort, the Camping de la Mer welcomes you for a natural and iodized stay with your family or friends in an exceptional setting. 5 minutes from Cabourg.

At 600 meters from the sea, Chez Mini, a 27m2 apartment with a double bedroom, is ideal for a couple alone or with a baby (bed on request) Accessible from the owners' garage and with a small garden and terrace (with a living room), it includes : - A main room with a kitchenette, a sofa, a table and a TV - A bright and functional bathroom - A bedroom of 12m2 equipped with a dressing room This apartment, freshly renovated offers tranquility and convenience, close to the sea and not far from the city center and shops. Nicole and Michel provide a warm and smiling welcome. Animals not accepted. On request : barbecue. Enclosed garden, possibility to park a car in the garage.

A typical Anglo-Norman family home, entirely renovated in the spirit of "Vacances à la Mer", restful and rejuvenating in Merville-Franceville-Plage, accommodating up to 10 people. Situated in a quiet street on the edge of the cycle path, 300 m from the beach and shopping street. Our 170m² house has been fully renovated since autumn 2022 and will be ready to welcome you from July for up to 10 people. It comprises on the ground floor : - Entrance hall with coat rack, shoe rack, cupboard with washing machine, tumble dryer and iron. - Living room (with large sofa and connected TV), dining room and open kitchen (fully equipped for 10 people with dishwasher, large fridge, freezer, oven, induction hob, microwave oven, filter coffee maker, Nespresso coffee maker, toaster, kettle, raclette machine. - 2 bedrooms on the ground floor, each with its own bathroom with shower, hairdryer, closets and connected TV (one with 160cm bed, the other with 180cm bed), large comforter, pillows and bolster - Separate WC Upstairs you'll find : - A loggia where you can read, relax, play board games, enjoy the light and the 180° view - 3 bedrooms, each with its own closet, 160 cm bed, large comforter, pillows and bolster (one with a very bright loggia overlooking the garden, the second with a sunny terrace at the end of the day, the third is quiet and has a lovely view of the garden) - 1 large bathroom with walk-in shower, bath and hairdryer - Separate toilet Baby equipment available (cot with mattress, high chair, potty, small bathtub). A pretty garden with trees welcomes you, unoverlooked and quiet, with a lovely terrace, garden table and chairs, large gas barbecue, 2 bicycles for exploring the surrounding area and fetching your bread in the morning! A charging station for electric cars is available.

Escapade Marine in Merville-Franceville for two travelers

Situated in a beautiful green dead end street of Merville-Franceville-Plage, Villa Georgette is a jewel of elegance, refinement and comfort, where ancient and modern blend wonderfully. Its lush, flowery and abundant garden offers you a true haven of peace and tranquility just a few steps from the sea. It is composed of a main house of 142m² and a guest house of 43m² completely independent. With its two totally independent living spaces, it is ideal for two families. The villa can comfortably accommodate up to 12 people, with its 6 bedrooms (4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms in the main house and 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom in the guest house). Many facilities are at your disposal to make your stay pleasant: bicycles, barbecue, garden furniture, washing machine... For more information, do not hesitate to discover our website.