There is no shortage of family activities in the Pays d'Auge, and that is excellent news for your next holiday. Between orchards, prestigious stud farms, the beaches of the Côte Fleurie and listed villages, this region of Calvados offers an ideal playground for young and old. Whether you stay for a few days or a full week, here is our top 10 of family experiences, chosen for their authenticity, their setting and their power to delight every generation.
1. Visit the Haras national du Pin
Nicknamed the "Versailles of the horse", the Haras national du Pin is a must. Children love the Thursday equestrian demonstrations in season, the guided tours of the stables and the carriage rides through the grounds designed by Le Nôtre. Allow half a day to enjoy the site fully. More info on haras-national-du-pin.com.
2. Stroll through Beuvron-en-Auge
Listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Beuvron-en-Auge enchants with its flower-decked half-timbered houses and its medieval market hall. Children play at spotting the most colourful façades while parents enjoy a farmhouse cider on the terrace. Perfect for a Sunday family lunch.
3. Discover the dairies of Camembert
Head to the village of Camembert, birthplace of the famous AOP cheese. The Maison du Camembert and family-run dairies offer educational visits where children can follow every step of the cheese-making process. Tasting included for the youngest gourmets.
4. Picnic in the orchards of Cambremer
The Cider Route runs through Cambremer, famous for its orchards stretching as far as the eye can see. In spring, the apple trees in bloom create a fairytale setting. In autumn, join in the public picking events at partner farms.
5. Enjoy the beaches of the Côte Fleurie
Thirty minutes from the heart of the Pays d'Auge, the beaches of Cabourg, Houlgate and Villers-sur-Mer offer fine sand for kilometres. Children love hunting for fossils on the Falaises des Vaches Noires, classified as an exceptional geological site.
6. Visit Honfleur and its Vieux Bassin
Honfleur appeals to every generation. Children climb aboard for a boat tour, teenagers fall in love with the cobbled streets and the open-air painters, parents enjoy the galleries and terraces. The Lieutenance and the church of Sainte-Catherine are essential stops.
7. Cycle along the Voie Verte
The Pays d'Auge Voie Verte winds between orchards and bocage along former railway lines turned into greenways. Flat, safe and lined with farms, it is perfect for family cycling, even with young children.
8. Explore the Crèvecoeur castle
This medieval fortified castle hosts educational events all year round: falconry demonstrations, medieval writing workshops, costumed festivals. A dive into history that captivates younger visitors.
9. Taste the specialities at Lisieux market
On Saturday morning, Lisieux market is a true institution. Introduce your children to local flavours: teurgoule, pommé, terrines, fresh cheeses. The perfect occasion to awaken their gourmet curiosity.
10. Stay in a charming property with a pool
To round off your days of adventure, nothing beats coming home to a charming property in the Pays d'Auge. Our selection of properties with a swimming pool lets the children let off steam and the parents relax in a private setting. Luxury is also savouring the simplicity of a swim at the end of the day.
When is the best time to visit the Pays d'Auge with the family?
The region lends itself to stays all year round. Spring brings orchards in bloom and mild temperatures ideal for walks. Summer combines beaches, local festivals and long evenings outside. Autumn is sublime for the colours of the bocage and apple picking. And winter, around a crackling fire in a charming property, offers a cosy escape that no parent can resist.
Want to design your getaway in the Pays d'Auge? Our concierge service selects the best activities and books you into exceptional properties. Let's talk about your next family adventure in Normandy.