Discover Chenedouit, Orne, Basse-Normandy

The Paysan abbot, was made priest of Menil Gondouin in 1873. He decorated the inside and outside of the church himself. Between 1873 and 1921, the ground and the walls are covered with saint writings and quotes painted or engraved. In order to bring the decoration to perfection, the abbot brought in many statues, paintings, creeds. His church became "alive and talking", organised like a huge reliquary, a Christian museum, unique.

The artificial lake at Rabodanges sits in an unspoilt natural setting, lined with forests and rocks. It stretches over five communes and covers almost 240 acres, making it the largest lake in Basse-Normandie. It is 6km in length and around 250 metres wide. It is home to the headquarters of the Motonautique Club de Basse Normandie, where you can water-ski when the warm weather arrives. There are two restaurants on the water's edge. One directly overlooks the lake and the other has inflatables for children. People stroll in the sun along the shores, close to the landing stage, from where cruise-boats take tourists up and down the waters. Kayaks and fishermen join this peaceful scene, the latter casting their lines either from the banks or from rowing boats. Fishing here covers two categories and is regulated, including night-fishing for carp.

Old mill situated on one of the most beautiful river of the Suisse Normande : La Rouvre. The goal of this "house" is to make you discover the life of the rivers and the landscapes. Naturalist exhibitions renewed each year. Count system and controle of the migration. Nature trail with interpretation boards on 1 kilometer. Educational activities possible for half a day or a full day.

At the heart of the Norman Bocage, you will be surprised by the unusual countryside of Grand Hazé, a mixture of land and water, sprinkled with tall grasses. This 500-acre area of marshland takes you to a place full of weird sights and sounds. With your guide, you can watch the Dance of the Dragonflies and butterflies, frogs and grasshoppers performing acrobatics as well as the cries of water-birds and a plethora of unusual plants. In this place steeped in history and legends, you will also come across Camargue horses and Highland cattle, given the task by man, of saving the largest wetland in the Orne.

Orientation table at La Roche d'Oëtre

Roche d’Oëtre has been cut out of rock, and is one of the finest belvederes in western France. This listed nature site is located in the heart of the oldest mountain in Europe in the heart of Swiss Normandy. From atop its 118 m, Roche d’Oëtre offers a breathtaking view of the Rouvre gorges. Numerous activities and services are available on site including hiking and mountain biking, orienteering, treetop adventure, art and themed exhibitions, tourist information, shop, cafe and restaurant.

With a specialist local guide, explore the breathtaking landscape of the Gorges de la Rouvre, in the heart of Suisse Normande. Above the gorges, the Roche d'Oëtre towers 118 metres above the torrent below. Discover the geological and historical treasures, and the fascinating flora and fauna along a trail that runs through the various landscapes, from the most arid to the wettest. Reindeer lichen, green lizards, badgers, freshwater pearl mussels, royal fern and otters can all be spotted at this significant site in the Orne.

Overlooking the great meandering bends in the River Orne between Ecouché and Putanges Pont Ecrepin), the impressive Mesnil-Glaise Rock provides stunning views over one of the Suisse Normande's most beautiful landscapes. Guided tours are offered by the Maison de la Rivière et du Paysage, helping you explore the geological history and remarkable flora and fauna in this protected area.

The dam’s history begins in 1919. Over a 4km stretch, between entering and exiting the St Aubert gorges, the Orne river bed runs steeply downhill, descending by about 40 metres. Taking advantage of the narrow valley at the entrance to the gorge, and the natural reservoir upstream, engineers were able to design an ambitious dam with substantial water retention. The reservoir stores up to six million cubic metres of water over an area of 95 hectares, held back by a 160 metre-long and 17 metre-high dam. The entire project, located in Plessis, can be viewed from the belvedere accessible via a footpath to the left of the site entrance.

The garden was designed as a backdrop for this 16th century manor house in Norman Switzerland. It was planned by the owners in line with the Renaissance rules for the art of the garden: a succession of terraces, a broderie of box trees, topiaries, hedge tunnels, vintage roses, etc. After a non-guided visit to the site you can also enjoy a guided visit at 3.30 pm.

The restaurant La Rotonde has a panoramic view on the lake of Rabodanges. A restaurant with its feet in the water allowing you to enjoy an exceptional panorama on the lake. Ideal for all your family reunions, banquets, seminars or others. A varied menu - a renowned chef - quality menus.

ONE PLACE, THREE SPACES a cocooning gastronomic room with fireplace a traditional fast-food room with access to the terrace a summer terrace for the beautiful days with its large arbour banqueting and catering services are also available.

In Normandy Switzerland, embark on board the restaurant boat, the Val d'Orne, for an exceptional cruise on Lake Rabodanges. A lake created during the construction of the Rabodanges dam in September 1959. It is a 14 kms cruise along the water, in the heart of a generous and preserved nature, which awaits you. Comfortably seated on one of the two decks of our barge or seated in front of a delicious typical Norman meal served in the restaurant, you will have all the leisure, during these 2H30 cruise to discover grey herons and wild ducks in their natural habitat as well as the surprisingly mountainous reliefs of this region of the Orne. A charming moment that will enchant lovers of bucolic landscapes, photos, ornithology and will delight young and old alike. The cruise boat, the Val d'Orne, is a magnificent barge with an open-air deck and a panoramic air-conditioned restaurant. Contact us and embark for a walk or a meal cruise. Meal cruises only on reservations 48 hours in advance.

Seasonal cuisine, for lunch and dinner. Le Caillou - Restaurant and café offers you a refined cuisine made from the best products of our region The Café du Caillou welcomes you all day long. You will find what you need for lunch and dinner with a brasserie type menu, you will also be able to discover local drinks and the house pastries for a snack As of October 2021, Le Caillou - the gastronomic restaurant side - is only open on request for private events. From 25 people and on estimate. Thank you for contacting us Reservation strongly advised.

Restaurant in the village of Ménil de Briouze, a few steps from the greenway All-inclusive menu for lunch and aperitif platters on Friday evening

Traditional cuisine. Open every day. Starters, main course, dessert.

Normandy regional specialities - "World's best tripe" in 2003 - Banquets.

Bar-restaurant-grocery store. Worker's menu during the week, catering service at weekends, take-away meals on request. Hydroalcoholic gel at the entrance Table arrangement at 1 m More table on the terrace Mandatory mask

Bar, tobacco with terrace and a beautiful terrace with trees on the waterfront Possibility to eat on site, snacks, barbecue in season. Animations in summer.

Just like home! In this friendly restaurant, the flavors of traditional cuisine fill you with happiness.

The Mêni, which in Norman dialect means "rural domain ", is the name given by Marie-Françoise to this country house built directly on the granite rock surrounded by pastures. Perfectly insulated and warm, it has been able to bring a personalized decorative touch to the cottage: lampshades made with embroidered family fabrics, homemade replica dragonfly lights, or even painted checkerboard on the game table! Near the family farm in lactating breeding, vs enjoy an all-inclusive stay in the countryside, surrounded by fruit trees for gourmets (plum, mirabellier, apricot, cherry, apple, pear, etc.). Do not miss the nautical activities at Lake Putanges 5 km away, the absolutely exotic hike in Suisse Normande to the Roches d'Oëtre (14 km), not to mention in the village the remarkable church of Ménil Gondouin decorated with frescoes. Independent house. On the ground floor: living room with lounge (stove), fully equipped kitchen, utility room with wc. Floor: bedroom (electric bed for 2 people 160 x 200 cm), bedroom (bed for 2 people 180 x 200 cm separable), bathroom, separate wc. Second floor: landing bedroom (4 single beds 90 x 200 cm) with private shower room and toilet. Electric heating and wood included. 3000 m² unfenced wooded garden. Barn available for bicycles.

At the end of a path, this address has plenty of assets with its heated swimming pool free of access, a wooded and quiet environment a kilometer from the small market town of Ste Honorine (restaurant, grocery store and garage). You will not miss anything, the owners have everything planned! Farmhouse adjoining the owner. Ground floor: living room (Hifi system) with kitchen area (BZ convertible sofa for 2 people, dining or modular living room table), shower room with wc. Upstairs: mezzanine bedroom (1 double bed 160 x 200 cm). Electric heating included. Terrace. Common garden of 6500 m² (including enclosed grassland of 3300 m²) with swimming pool in operation when the temperature exceeds 15°. Sunbeds and deckchairs available. Children's games: slide, croquet, badminton, kite 2 bicycles available Cats are accepted.

Near the Tourailles, small village famous Suisse Normande. Landscapes, forests and local products will seduce you. All inclusive equipment. Country house restored in a hamlet. Ground floor: living room (insert with wood offered ), kitchenette, bathroom with toilet. Floor: mezzanine (2 pull-out beds 1 pers.), corner-room (1 bed 2 pers., cot). Heating gas and wood. Garage, garden. Sheets, towels and cleaning included. PACKAGE CLEANING IF ANIMAL: 15 €

In the heart of Suisse Normande, you will stay in a comfortable gîte, close to the owners' house. To discover in the surrounding area: Lake Rabodanges, the exceptional site of Roche d'Oëtre, Independent old house. Living room (wood stove, double sofa bed, BZ double sofa bed) with kitchen area - a few steps - 2 bedrooms (2 double beds), 1 bedroom (2 bunk beds), 1 bathroom , WC. Electric heating. Enclosed land 500 m². Possibility of carport. Possibility of fishing with 1 card in the Rouvre located 1 km away. Use of an additional room with a sofa bed and table football: supplement of €20.

The owners of the premises have received 1st prize for the flowered houses of the canton of Putanges for several consecutive years. You can take the Grande Randonnée 36 trail on site to discover the St Aubert gorges in the heart of Suisse Normande. On Lake Rabodanges, supervised swimming pools and water sports All-inclusive equipment. Independent country house near the owners: living room (insert), kitchen area, bathroom, WC. Upstairs: 2 bedrooms (2 single beds, 1 double bed, baby bed). Central heating from October 15 to April 15, plus fireplace if necessary (wood for a fee) available all year round. Animals accepted if compatible with the 2 cats of the property which remain free in the garden. 2,000 m² garden.

A real cocoon with a geodesic shape! Facing due west, you can admire the sunsets over the bocage but also the starry nights. The upper part of the dome opens for more comfort. Aurore will make you taste the saffron that she produces in Burgundy. She offers you the chance to enjoy yoga sessions given by a qualified professional 400 meters away, as well as massages (by reservation). Just 4 km away: shops and restaurants, train station, greenway and nature reserve "le marais du Grand Hazé". 11 km away: leisure center of the Rabodanges lake (supervised swimming in summer, water skiing, canoeing, electric boats, towed buoys, fishing). Unusual 20 m² wooden frame dome, made of canvas and insulated with wool: Double bed 160 x 200 cm, kettle and coffee machine, baby bed on request, sink, shower cubicle and toilet. Raised wooden terrace with spa. 4G network. Heating by reversible air conditioning. All-inclusive formula with sheets, towels and breakfast. Optional table d'hôtes on reservation. Partially enclosed shared garden of the owners, with a very nice and very discreet Golden Retriver dog.

Gîte overlooking a beautiful panorama from two floors: vast veranda, living room, 8 bedrooms (15 single beds), shower-rooms & lavatories. Central heating. Paddocks & stalls. Approved by the various French youth & education authorities (DDASS, AFPS, BNS, BAFA, BAFD, BEE for riding). No pets. Gîte for children offering multi-activity breaks (horse riding for beginners, rock climbing, canoeing, outdoor mini-camp, Indian, cowboy and mediaeval camps) with qualified instructors, family atmosphere, structured lifestyle offering educational values.

Located in the heart of Suisse Normande, this "little cottage in the meadow" located at the end of a hamlet, completely independent on 5,000 m2, offers 17th century authenticity, charm, change of scenery, tranquility and natural spaces. From the house you can go for a walk in the surrounding woods and fields and see deer and rabbits! The Orne valley is a preserved region with steep reliefs, famous hiking trails (favorite hikes of the French!) Inside, a large fireplace in which wood fires are lit, “country broc” decoration, everything here will take you back in time! Children love the cottage reminiscent of Snow White's. At Roche d'Oëtre, a classified natural site, treetop adventure courses for young and old and a friendly brasserie! 3 km from Lake Rabodanges, with supervised swimming pools and water sports. On the road to Mont St Michel (1h30), the D-Day beaches (1h), Haras du Pin (40 mins). We speak English. Garden level: entrance, bathroom with large shower, sink and WC, (with VMC) games room/office, with table football. Ground floor: large room of 37 m² including a small open kitchen (stove, sink, low refrigerator, dishwasher, work surface, microwave), dining room/living room (very recent high-performance wood stove, TV telephone living room, TV, free WIFI). Upstairs in the attic: 2 bedrooms in a row. A bedroom (1 double bed, folding baby bed) and a children's bedroom (2 single beds). See house plans. Recent heat transfer electric heating. Unfenced land 5,000 m² with swing, garden equipment. EV charging stations 4 km away.

In the heart of Suisse Normande, cozy and flowery gîte, bordered by undergrowth and surrounded by pear trees. Ideal for relaxation and exploring the countryside, the Orne and Rouvre valleys. Small supermarket 400m away open every day except Monday. Equestrian center 1 km away. Seven kilometers away, the Roche d'Oëtre site and its botanical trails, its tree-climbing activities for children and adults, its hikes and its tourist office to advise you on outings and sporting or cultural activities throughout your stay in Normandy. . All-inclusive equipment. Old detached house on one level: living room (insert, DVD) with kitchen area. Corridor (3 steps), 2 bedrooms (2 double beds), 1 small bedroom (2 bunk beds reserved for children), shower room, WC. Possibility of chair and baby bed. Electric heating. Unfenced garden of 1500 m². Garage.

Between Bocage and Suisse Normande, the gîte is part of a group of buildings formerly dedicated to agriculture, entirely restored in accordance with old techniques and materials: wood, cob, lime, hemp, etc. Initially, the Bergerie site was just a 6,000 m2 pasture with the half-timbered buildings of the old ruined 18th century farm and only a few fruit trees. It has become the playground of Sylvie, passionate about flowers and colors, and her husband Frédéric who have completely shaped the place by creating a magnificent lush and colorful garden, where everyone will find their privacy, tranquility and space. . Fresh air, walks and rest await you: a real disconnection from the worries of the modern world! Old detached house near the owners. Ground floor: living room (WI-FI web access included, TNT), kitchen, WC. Floor: 1 bedroom (1 double bed 160 x 200 cm), 1 bedroom (2 single beds, extra child's bed), bathroom/WC. Electric heating. Terrace, open English-style garden with trees and swings.