The hilly landscapes of Normandy offer a magnificent setting for the monuments built between the Middle Ages and the 18th century. From medieval fortresses to prestigious residences, here is an overview of the castles open to the public in Suisse Normande and its surroundings.
The fortified castles in Suisse Normande
If you are a lover of the Middle Ages, you will inevitably be seduced by the William-the-Conqueror medieval castle or by the remains of the fortress of the Counts of Ganne.
The castle of Falaise, residence of the Dukes of Normandy
Remarkably preserved, the fortress of Falaise is THE detour not to be missed during your stay in Suisse Normande. THE William the Conqueror Medieval Castle promises an exciting visit. Live a life-size historical experience in virtual reality using the touch pads provided at the start of the visit.
Enter the large reception hall to reach the small keep and the impressive Talbot Tower, erected at the beginning of the 13th century. Discover the private living spaces of the lord, the chapel, the lower rooms... From William the Conqueror to Henry II Plantagenêt, meet the great figures who marked the history of the Anglo-Norman territory!
Falaise, Norman medieval city
Château Ganne, vestiges in the middle of the woods
In the heart of Suisse Normande, 5 km north of Pont-d'Ouilly, follow in the footsteps of the lords of La Pommeraye. The remains of Château Ganne reveal an impressive porch tower in the middle of hundred-year-old trees. Flash the QR Code and let yourself be guided through these 11th and 12th century ruins.
To discover the places at your own pace, take “The Owner’s Tour”. This one-hour walk will take you around the motte castrale.
Dreaming of a castle life in Suisse Normande
In Suisse Normande and nearby, two richly furnished castles are open to visitors. Discover the residences of the Count of Vendeuvre and the Countess of Pontécoulant.
The Château de Vendeuvre, at the gateway to Suisse Normande
Built in 1741 by Count Alexandre de Vendeuvre, the château designed by Jacques-François Blondel is a prototype of an aristocratic Norman country residence. It is still inhabited by the 7th Count of Vendeuvre.
The interior of the castle with its sumptuous decor and furnishings transports the visitor to the daily life of an 18th century noble family. In the old orangery, we discover a private collection of miniature furniture and crockery from the 16th century to the art deco period.
A secret visit
Upon reservation, the doors of the floors are open to visitors. The Vendeuvre family takes you behind the scenes of the residence for a unique visit. Between secret doors and hidden stairs, discover the private apartments of the castle!
Take the time to stroll through the landscaped grounds of the Château de Vendeuvre. You will fall under the spell of its French gardens, its playful water games called "surprises" and other secret corners. These will not be without reminding you of the universe of Alice in Wonderland.
The castle of Pontécoulant, between bocage and Suisse Normande
Located on the edge of the Virois bocage, 20 minutes west of Pont-d'Ouilly, the Pontécoulant estate stretches along the banks of the Druance. Built in the 16th century, the residence was enlarged and refurbished in the 18th century. Around the castle, the pavilions of the gamekeeper and the gardener, the farm, the main courtyard, the English park, the woods and the land are part of the estate.
Without heir, the last descendant of the family, Marie Augustine de Barrère, Countess of Pontécoulant, gave the castle to the Department of Calvados in 1896 with the desire to open it to the public. The museum of the castle created in 1908 is labeled Museum of France.
The guided tour gives access to all the rooms of the castle. Go through the dining room, the large living room, the billiard room or even the bedrooms... Here you can discover the decor, furniture and familiar objects of an aristocratic family as it lived during the 18th and 19th centuries. .
