ORNE HOLIDAY TRAVEL GUIDE

The rural department of Orne in Southern Normandy glows with the greenery of forests and meadows and has farming high on the list of occupations.

The national stud – Haras du Pin – near Argentan is well known in the horse world and Orne offers many activities for horse enthusiasts.

Orne’s capital, Alencon, was the lace capital of Europe 400 years ago. Visit the museums dedicated to this craft here and at Argentan which also has a famous castle and 2 fifteenth century churches.

Eleanor of Aquitaine, mother of Richard the Lionheart, was born in medieval Domfront.

Relax and pamper yourself at the renowned spa and leisure centre in Bagnoles-de-l’Orne set around a beautiful lake deep in a huge forest.

Son et lumiere and music festivals are held at Sees whilst those keen to sample some local delicacies will enjoy the annual Easter and Apple Fairs held at Vimoutiers and the well known sausage fair at Montagne-au-Perche. Follow the ‘Route du Fromage’ to discover the village of Camembert where the cheese of the same name was created.