The Best Viewpoints

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Even if the peaks of the Normandy Mountains are no longer on a par with those of the Alps, the views are still breathtaking. The sites, mainly in Suisse Normande, are astonishingly rocky. And yes, in this inland part of Normandy, there are vast horizons to enjoy. From the turn in a valley, the summit of a mountain or a belvedere, where can you admire these special places and exceptional panoramas?

The Roche d’Oëtre at Saint-Philbert-sur-Orne

La Roche d’Oëtre is the most emblematic site of the Suisse Normande ! The granite and puddingstone cliff towers 118 metres above the forest-covered gorges of the Rouvre. Don’t miss the famous human profile that appears from the rockface.

The site is easy to get to from the top. The car park is 150 metres from the viewpoint and there’s an orientation table to help you find your bearings in relation to the major sites in Normandy. Numerous rocky promontories all along the cornice invite you to take in the views. This is the starting point for the Rouvre gorges trail.

Not to be missed - La Roche d'Oëtre

Le Mont de Cerisy at Cerisy-Belle-Etoile

A rocky mound, 276 metres high, with thousands of rhododendrons and the remains of a manor house with several viewpoints to choose from:

  • From the top of the tower (80 steps to climb) there’s a 360° panorama of the Normandy bocage and from where, on a clear day, you’ll even be able to see all 3 departments of Lower Normandy: Calvados, Manche and the Orne.
  • The nature trail, provides many clear views of rocky escarpments, forest and bocage. An information lectern tells you about the different geological features to be seen.
    Make sure you come during the flowering months in May and June to see the massed flowers of the rhododendrons.

The car park is located directly at the top of the mountain. Direct access on foot.

Not to be missed - Le Mont de Cerisy
Le Mont Cerisy
Le Méandre de l'Orne

The Meanders of the Orne in Saint-Philbert-sur-Orne

Reminiscent of a meander in the Ardennes, the Orne forms a perfect curve here. Easy access via a small road 2 km from the famous Roche d’Oëtre site, with views of the meander and rocky escarpments. A small car park is available.

This panorama can be explored on foot along the path between Orne and Rouvre.

Not to be issed - The meanders of the Orne

Le Rocher des Gardes at Saint-Philbert-sur-Orne

From the Rocher des Gardes viewpoint point, there is a magnificent panoramic view over part of the meandering river Rouvre, the village of Rouvrou and small plots of land bordered by hedges.

It is reached on foot via the meander trail. It’s a bit of a climb, but well worth the effort!

The Meander Trail
Le Rocher des Gardes

The gorges of the Varenne from la chapelle des Roches

Near the Chapelle des Roches, you can enjoy both rocks and nature. Take a stroll along the rocky promontory from where you’ll be able to enjoy the views of the Varenne gorges.

Access via the D962 between Flers and Domfront in the commune of Le Châtellier.

The Chappelle des Roches

Location & Contact

Site de la Roche d’Oëtre

61430 Saint-Philbert-sur-Orne

02 31 59 13 13
Contact us by email
Facebook page - La Roche d'Oëtre en Suisse Normande