Calvados - the department

The diversity of Normandy's landscapes

Normandy is distinguished by the richness and variety of its landscapes, which stretch from the coast to the interior, passing through valleys and hills. Each of these landscapes is unique, with its own charm, history, and distinctive features. We invite you to discover three iconic landscapes of Normandy that highlight this diversity: the famous D-Day beaches, the picturesque Normandy bocage, and the surprising “Normandy Switzerland.”.

The D-Day landing beaches and coastline

The Normandy coastline, which stretches over 600 km from Tréport in the west to Mont Saint-Michel, is characterized by chalk cliffs, sandy and pebble beaches, as well as charming fishing and yachting ports and seaside resorts. This coastline is also steeped in history, particularly the D-Day landing beaches, which were the theaters of Operation Overlord on June 6, 1944—the day that marked the beginning of France’s liberation from Nazi occupation.

These beaches—named Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword—have become major sites of remembrance and history, home to museums, military cemeteries, bunkers, and memorials.

The Normandy bocage: a mosaic of meadows and hedgerows

Characterized by its dense network of hedgerows surrounding meadows, croplands, and orchards, the Normandy bocage is typical of the departments of Calvados, Manche, and Orne. This landscape, shaped by centuries of livestock farming and mixed cropping, is a rich ecosystem home to remarkable biodiversity, including a variety of birds, insects, mammals, and plants.

It also represents an important aspect of Normandy’s cultural heritage, reflecting the history, traditional skills, and ways of life of the region’s residents.

Suisse Normande: a surprising landscape

Located south of Calvados and west of Orne, the “Swiss Normandy” region owes its name to its resemblance to the Swiss landscape, thanks to its rolling hills and steep valleys, deep gorges, and sheer cliffs.

Crossed by the Orne River, which carved its course through the Armorican Massif, this region offers spectacular views, such as the Clécy Viaduct and the Houle and Parcs rock formations. Suisse Normande is also popular with outdoor sports enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, canoeing, paragliding, and rock climbing.

Natural heritage and preservation

The Calvados region, recognizing the richness and fragility of its natural heritage, has taken steps to protect and enhance its green spaces. These efforts are the result 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

Spanning more than 145,000 hectares and stretching across the departments of Calvados, Manche, and Orne, the Marais du Cotentin et du Bessin Regional Nature Park encompasses 144 municipalities and is home to more than 100,000 residents. This park is distinguished by its vast expanses of wetlands, which are essential to biodiversity.

With more than 2,000 plant and animal species recorded—including the otter, the marsh harrier, and the estuarine angelica, some of which are rare or endangered—the park is committed to protecting and managing these habitats while promoting sustainable development. It organizes awareness-raising, educational, promotional, and recreational activities for 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 wealth of sites for enthusiasts of architecture, history, and nature to explore. You’re sure to find places there that will satisfy your desire to explore.

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 more than a hundred castles, Calvados is a living testament to Normandy’s history and way of life. These castles—whether they’re designated as historic monuments or offer tours and charming accommodations—are must-sees.

Don’t miss: the Château de Caen, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, which houses the Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts; the Château de Balleroy, designed in the 17th century by Mansart, home to the Musée des Ballons; Vendeuvre Castle, with its unique collection of miniature furniture and its 18th-century water garden; and Canon Castle, famous for its French-style and English-style gardens. Each of these castles is surrounded by sumptuous gardens, promising enriching walks and dazzling floral displays in every season.

Towns and villages of character

Calvados is also known for its picturesque towns and villages, which are full of charm and authenticity. These places are a true testament to Norman architecture and history.

Must-haves include Honfleur, with its famous old basin and narrow houses; ; Deauville, the epitome of chic, with its boardwalk, casino and film festival; ; Bayeux, a “City of Art and History” that is home to Queen Mathilde’s tapestry; and Beuvron-en-Auge, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in France, charming for its architecture typical of the Pays d’Auge region, or Ablon, a discreet village.

D-Day historical and memorial sites

As the setting for one of the key events of World War II, 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 the D-Day beaches, such as Utah Beach, Omaha Beach, Gold Beach, Juno Beach, and Sword Beach; discover the museums dedicated to this battle, such as the Caen Memorial, the D-Day Museum in Arromanches, and the Airborne Museum in Sainte-Mère-Église; visit the military cemeteries, final 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 iconic 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 rich in diverse landscapes, boasting a remarkable natural and cultural heritage, as well as historic sites and memorials of the utmost importance. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, delve into history, or connect with nature, Calvados is sure to fulfill all your desires. For more information, suggestions for visits, events, and news about this fascinating region, visit the Calvados Departmental Council’s 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 largest cities in Calvados, ranked by population, are: Caen with 107,250 residents, Hérouville-Saint-Clair with 22,150 residents, Lisieux with 19,755 residents, Vire-Normandie, with 17,135 residents, and Bayeux, with a population of 12,775, according to INSEE data as of January 1, 2023.

Which is the most beautiful town in Calvados?

Choosing the most beautiful town in Calvados is a matter of personal taste and depends on individual preferences. However, Honfleur, Bayeux, and Deauville consistently stand out for their beauty and rich heritage. Honfleur, with its medieval charm, unique wooden church, and picturesque harbor, attracts many visitors. Bayeux, famous for its 11th-century tapestry depicting William the Conqueror’s conquest of England, is steeped in history. Deauville, known for its elegance, luxurious villas, and cultural and sporting events, epitomizes seaside chic.

Where does the name "Calvados" come from?

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 sailors, 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.