Calvados - the department

Located in the magnificent Normandyin northwest France, Calvados is a department rich in history and culture. Its name comes from a group of rocks in the sea, testifying to the natural beauty that characterizes this area. Born of the French Revolution, Calvados was once an integral part of the historic province of Normandy.

With a population of around 700,000 spread over four arrondissements, 25 cantons and 528 communes, this département offers a fascinating glimpse of French diversity.

This article takes you on a journey of discovery through Calvados, exploring the variety of its sites and landscapes. From the splendor of its natural spaces to the richness of its cultural heritage, you'll discover the beauty of Normandy's landscapes, the diversity of its flora and fauna, its efforts to preserve the environment, and the must-see places to visit, including historic monuments, museums, parks and gardens. Get ready for a captivating journey through Calvados, a department that promises to amaze you at every turn.

The diversity of Normandy's landscapes

Normandy is distinguished by the richness and variety of its landscapes, which stretch from coastline to inland, via valleys and hills. Each of these landscapes is unique, with its own charm, history and distinctive features. We invite you to discover three emblematic Normandy landscapes that highlight this diversity: the famous D-Day beaches, the picturesque Normandy bocage and the surprising Suisse Normande.

The D-Day landing beaches and coastline

The Normandy coastline, stretching over 600 km from Tréport in the west to Mont Saint-Michel, is marked by chalk cliffs, sandy and pebble beaches, charming fishing and yachting harbours and seaside resorts. This coastline is also steeped in history, in particular the D-Day beaches, the scene of Operation Overlord on June 6, 1944, which marked the beginning of the liberation of France from Nazi occupation.

These beaches, named Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword, have become meccas of memory and history, hosting museums, military cemeteries, bunkers and memorials.

The Normandy bocage: a mosaic of meadows and hedgerows

Characterized by its dense network of hedges surrounding meadows, crops and orchards, the Normandy bocage is typical of the Calvados, Manche and Orne departments. This landscape, shaped by centuries of animal husbandry and mixed farming, is a rich ecosystem that harbors remarkable biodiversity, with a variety of birds, insects, mammals and plants.

It also represents an important aspect of Normandy's cultural heritage, reflecting the history, skills and lifestyles of the region's inhabitants.

Suisse Normande: a surprising landscape

Located south of Calvados and west of Orne, Suisse Normande owes its name to its resemblance to the Swiss landscape, with its steep hills and valleys, deep gorges and sheer cliffs.

Crossed by the River Orne, which has carved out its bed in the Armorican massif, this region offers spectacular panoramas, such as the Clécy viaduct and the Houle and Parcs rocks. Suisse Normande is also popular with nature sports enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, canoeing, paragliding and climbing.

Natural heritage and preservation

Calvados, aware of the richness and fragility of its natural heritage, has initiated measures to protect and enhance its green spaces. These efforts are the fruit of close collaboration with local stakeholders.

In this article, we highlight two significant initiatives: the Parc naturel régional des Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin and the espaces naturels sensibles.

Cotentin and Bessin Marshes Regional Nature Park

Covering more than 145,000 hectares and crossing the departments of Calvados, Manche and Orne, the Parc naturel régional des Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin encompasses 144 communes and is home to more than 100,000 residents. The park is distinguished by its vast expanses of wetlands, essential for biodiversity.

With over 2,000 plant and animal species listed, including otters, marsh harriers and estuary angelica, some of which are rare or endangered, the park is committed to protecting and managing these environments while promoting sustainable development. It organizes awareness-raising, educational, enhancement and promotional activities for local residents, schools, tourists and professionals.

Sensitive natural areas

Identified for their ecological, landscape or geological interest, sensitive natural areas are acquired, developed and maintained by the Département du Calvados, with the aim of preserving them and making them accessible to the public. The département has 43 such areas, covering more than 2,000 hectares.

Emblematic sites such as the D-Day landing beaches, the Normandy bocage, the Suisse Normande, the Devil's breach or the Caprice wood illustrate the diversity of landscapes and habitats for numerous species. These sites, which are open to the public free of charge, offer discovery itineraries, explanatory panels, educational activities and guided tours.

The department has also developed a program to help schools and leisure centers discover these sites.

Must-see sites

Calvados, a department rich in diversity, offers a multitude of sites to discover for lovers of architecture, history and nature. We're sure you'll find something to delight your sense of discovery.

We offer you a journey through three categories of must-see sites in Calvados: castles and their majestic gardens, charming towns and villages of character, and historical and D-Day memorial sites.

Calvados castles and their gardens

With over a hundred châteaux, Calvados is a living testimony to the history and art of living in Normandy. These castles, whether listed as historic monuments or offering charming tours and accommodation, are must-sees.

Not to be missed: the Château de Caen, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and home to the Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts; the Château de Balleroy, designed in the 17th century by Mansart and home to the Musée des Ballons; the Château de Vendeuvre, with its unique collection of miniature furniture and 18th-century water garden; and the Château de Canon, famous for its French and English parks. Each of these châteaux is surrounded by sumptuous gardens, promising enriching strolls and dazzling floral displays in every season.

Towns and villages of character

Calvados is also distinguished by its picturesque towns and villages, rich in charm and authenticity. These places are a true testament to Norman architecture and history.

Must-sees include Honfleur, with its famous old basin and narrow houses; Deauville, the epitome of chic, with its boardwalk, casino and film festival; Bayeux, a town of art and history, home to Queen Mathilde's tapestry; and Beuvron-en-Auge, recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages, charming with its typical Pays d'Auge architecture.

D-Day historical and memorial sites

As the scene of one of the key events of the Second World War, Calvados honors the courage of the Allied forces during the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, which marked the beginning of the liberation of France and Europe. Several memorial sites pay tribute to this legacy.

Explore D-Day beaches such as Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach or Sword Beach; discover museums dedicated to this battle, such as the Mémorial de Caen, the Musée du Débarquement d'Arromanches or the Musée Airborne de Sainte-Mère-Église; visit military cemeteries, the resting places of fallen heroes, such as the American cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, the British cemetery at Bayeux or the German cemetery at La Cambe; and don't miss emblematic sites such as Pointe du Hoc, Pegasus Bridge or the Merville battery.

Conclusion

This article has been offered to you a glimpse of the splendors Calvados, a department with a rich diversity of landscapes, a remarkable natural and cultural heritage, and historic and memorial sites of the utmost importance. Whether you're looking to relax, explore, immerse yourself in history or commune with nature, Calvados has something for everyone. For more information, suggestions for visits, events and news about this fascinating region, visit the Conseil départemental du Calvados website.

You can also stay in touch via the Conseil départemental's social networks, so you don't miss out on the latest news and tips on how to make the most of your stay. Calvados invites you to come and discover it: an unforgettable experience awaits you!

FAQ

What are the main towns in Calvados?

The main towns in Calvados, defined by their number of inhabitants, are : Caen with 107,250 residents, Hérouville-Saint-Clair with 22,150, Lisieux with 19,755, Vire Normandie with 17,135, and Bayeux, with a population of 12,775, according to Insee data for January 1, 2023.

Which is the most beautiful town in Calvados?

Choosing the most beautiful town in Calvados is subjective and varies according to individual preferences. However, Honfleur, Bayeux and Deauville regularly stand out for their beauty and rich heritage. Honfleur, with its medieval character, unique wooden church and picturesque port, attracts many visitors. Bayeux, famous for its 11th-century tapestry recounting William the Conqueror's conquest of England, is steeped in history. Deauville, known for its elegance, luxurious villas and cultural and sporting events, symbolizes seaside chic.

What is the origin of the name Calvados?

The etymology of the name Calvados remains unclear, but it is generally accepted that it derives from the Latin "calvus" (bald) and "dos" (back), referring to the bare reefs visible off the Normandy coast. These reefs, used as landmarks by navigators, inspired the name of the department established in 1790.

What do you call people from Calvados?

The inhabitants of Calvados are known as Calvadosiens, the official term for the residents of this Normandy department.