Gites in Caen

Discover Caen and the surrounding area on holiday

Caen is located in the Calvados department. It is also known as the City of the Dukes of Normandy. With its rich historical past, Caen has preserved an exceptional architectural heritage despite the bombardments of the Second World War. Caen is best known for its Memorial. It is the museum of the Second World War. It is an essential place to visit to understand the stages of the Second World War through exhibitions and films. The memorial has an immersive room where you can watch a 360-degree projection of a highly instructive film on the origins of the conflicts. The memorial is a conservatory for peace and a place of meditation with the aim of raising awareness of the freedom of peoples. If there's another monument you really must visit in Caen, it's the Men's Abbey. This superb cloister was built on the initiative of William the Conqueror, and now houses his tomb. Today, this religious building houses Caen's town hall, but it is possible to visit the interior. For those who love old buildings, you will be seduced by the architectural style, the beauty of the rooms, the paintings on display and you can even see the grand staircase in the famous Salle des Gardes. The Abbaye aux Dames is another of Caen's great monuments. Formerly the home of Benedictine nuns, after the French Revolution it was used as barracks and then as a hospice. It was restored after 1984 to become the headquarters of the Normandy region. Guided tours are available of the Romanesque abbey church. As with the Men's Abbey, this place of worship was designed by William the Conqueror and his wife, Matilda of Flanders, whose tomb lies there. Caen Castle, in the heart of the old city centre, is one of the largest castles in Europe. In this citadel of more than 5 hectares, you can discover, among other things, the governor's lodgings, the Normandy museum housed in the artillery cavalry, and appreciate the remains of the keep. Outside is the lovely Jardin des Simples, a recreation of a medieval medicinal garden. Saint-Pierre church is also a must-see during your stay in Caen. Located right in the city centre, this religious building has been a listed historic monument since 1840. Built in the Gothic style, Saint-Pierre church attracts many visitors. Here you can admire magnificent stone sculptures and relics from another era. For art lovers, Caen's Musée des Beaux-Arts is another place to visit. Here you'll find Flemish and Italian Renaissance paintings, superbly highlighted by an extraordinary play of light.

Activities to do near Caen during your holiday

During your holiday in Caen, set off to discover the large floral park of the Colline aux Oiseaux. It is located very close to the Memorial. Covering an area of 7 hectares, this park is the ideal place to take a stroll and recharge your batteries in the heart of nature. You'll enjoy a wide variety of birds and plants, a magnificent rose garden and a beautiful panoramic view over Caen. There's also a picnic area and a children's playground. What's more, the park has a natural labyrinth that will delight young and old alike! Make the most of your holiday and take your time! Caen city centre is easy and pleasant to explore on foot. Stroll through the pretty cobbled streets and admire the timber-framed, half-timbered houses built in the flamboyant Gothic style in the 16th century. You'll find them between nos. 52 and 54 rue Saint-Pierre and also in the Vaugueux district! You can also take a little train to admire the town's monuments, such as the castle of William the Conqueror and the church of Saint Pierre. Take advantage of your gîte in Caen to relax for a while. Visit Caen You Escape and its life-size virtual reality games, which are proving a big hit all over France. Caen You Escape opened in 2016. In teams of 2 to 5 people, you will have to succeed in escaping from a room, in a limited time, by solving different puzzles. It's a great way to spend time with family and friends! Festyland is another place to relax in Caen. This theme park offers over thirty games and attractions based on the history of Normandy. Discover four different worlds: the Belle Époque, Pirates, Vikings and Knights. Ideal for learning while having fun! Discover also the Ilôt z'Enfants. Located in Mondeville, near Caen, this large leisure park offers a wide range of games and attractions. Finally, even if Caen isn't by the sea, you can visit its harbour. The quays are laid out with small temporary terraces and there's plenty of entertainment. A very pleasant atmosphere for your holidays! While you're in Caen, don't forget that the town is also the starting point for a number of visits to the surrounding area: Deauville, with its beach and casino, Cabourg, Ouistreham and Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer. The famous Sword Beach is the nearest beach to Caen. Your stay in Caen will be one to remember!