The most beautiful natural sites to discover Normandy

In the continuity of the slopes of Amfreville-sous-les-Monts, the cliffs of Connelles overlook the Seine to the height of the vast messier of Val-de-Reuil and offer a breathtaking panorama. A relaxing moment, a romantic walk, a botanical excursion, a family trip or a sports course can be programmed there. This site is frequented by many athletes, climbing and hiking (a GR travels the slopes). Although not very large, the site is one of the most visited places in the region, particularly appreciated for its impressive biodiversity. Four exceptional plant species for Upper Normandy have been listed: the common fig fig, the wax, the lark and the mountain stool. Many species of animals are also present there.

These two forests are part of the Regional Natural Park of the Seine Boucles and are crossed by numerous equestrian trails, cycle paths and walking paths. All are accessible to families. The more experienced hikers can start the GR 2, which goes from St Pierre-de-Manneville to Le Havre and crosses these forests along the way. This multi-kilometer trail allows you to enjoy majestic beech and remarkable trees, taking advantage of picturesque villages such as Saint-Wandrille, Caudebec-en-Caux and Jumièges. In the shadow of the pine trees and sessile oak trees, the walkers discover the forest of the Trait-Maulévrier, which covers 3,000 hectares. Located on the right bank of the river, the diversity of its landforms makes it a forest highly appreciated by walkers. Left bank is the Broton forest, less rugged than its neighbor, which awaits you with its 6,700 hectares.

From the mouth of the harbour to that of Barneville-Carteret extends a splendid site of dunes and beaches. Often battered by the wind, the landscape is magnificent: the infinite variations of light and ever-changing hues will delight the photographer's eye. If you are in the area, don't miss to walk around - or rather to get lost in it - so vast and exotic is the place. Classified as a sensitive natural space by the departmental council, the site is made up of several environments where a rich and diversified fauna and flora flourish.

In the village of Saint-Samson and Hotot-en-Auge, this 104 hectare reserve welcomes birds in full migration, offering them food and tranquility. For them, it is an important wintering and stopover site at the Lower Normandy scale. In winter, 70-80% of the site's surface is water. The rest of the year, the reserve is dried, allowing for maintenance and grazing. All the faunistic wealth of the site reveals itself from the top of the observatory where long views are available. A second observatory, located on the water side, allows you to approach birds. Good idea: naturalized species in windows will allow you to recognize the different peoples present and identified. The guided visits are provided by the Federation of Hunters of Calvados, owner of the site, assisted by various cynegetic associations of the department. A fascinating walk, for big and small.

The chalk cliffs of Orival overlook the Seine valley between Orival and Rouen. In particular, they house the remains of the Château de Roche Fouet (12th century) and troglodyte dwellings. Access to these sites is only possible on foot, partly via the GR2.

Between the municipalities of Hanouard and Grainville-la-Teinturière, the Low Waters are a green area preserved by the conservation work of the Community of Municipalities on the coast of Alabaster. Located 15 km from the coastline, the site is accessible to all (hikers, hikers, cyclists, riders…). On 50 hectares, in the heart of the Durdent valley, this natural area of ecological interest, faunistique and floristic offers a pleasant promenade consisting of wet meadows, wood and ponds. Many remarkable species evolve like the small Polish horses Konig Polski or Highland Cattle, these Scottish cows with long red hairs, which contribute to the upkeep of the prairies and bring a rustic touch to the landscape. Visits are arranged by appointment to explore the site with a facilitator.

Located in the Orne, the Club du Soleil Normandie Maine has a land of 2 ha, Les Noës, in the heart of the Ecouves Forest, thirty minutes from Alençon. Club members come together with all comforts and nudity for picnics, meals, weekends, themed evenings, as well as hiking or bicycle trips. The site has a collective bungalow with kitchen, toilet, shower. A barbecue is available. Reserved for members.