Cider route in Calvados, Normandy: 2-DAY ITINERARY

Winding its way 40 kilometers through Normandy’s pastoral Pays d’Auge and Calvados regions, the Route du Cidre provides a window into a centuries-old tradition. Apples have been a staple of Norman cuisine for hundreds of years, with the first mentions of calvados, the famous apple brandy, mentioned by Charlemagne in the 8th century. There are two main products produced along the Route du Cidre: the aforementioned calvados, an apple brandy made by distilling cider in oak barrels, and several varietals of sparkling and still cider.

Connecting the charming, half-timbered hamlets of Cambremer, Bonnebosq, and Beuvron-en-Auge, the Route du Cidre makes for a beautiful trip through the heart of Normandy. You’ll sample cider, calvados, and apple juice at various farms and estates along the way, often paired with delicious local cheeses like the famous Pont l’Eveque. Visitors will also discover the process of creating cider and calvados through fun and engaging demonstrations, all ending in tastings.

Whether you’re a road trip lover interested in discovering Normandy’s gorgeous heartland or a lover of all things apple, our two-day itinerary along the Route du Cidre is the perfect way to spend a few days in Northern France.

Day 1

Cambremer

Start your trip around the Route du Cidre in the charming town of Cambremer , the official beginning of this 40 km loop.

Calvados Pierre Huet

Founded in 1865, Pierre Huet is a family distillery with over 30 hectares of apple orchards. Visitors can take a 75-minute guided tour of the estate, seeing the apple press and centuries-old barrels as you’re taken through the production process. You’ll also have the chance to taste their delicious spirits alongside Norman cheeses and apple tarts. More than 25 different varieties of apples grow on the property, and they also produce cider, green apple cream, apple juice, cider vinegar, and more.

Le Jardins de Pays d’Auge

Head just a few minutes south to Le Jardins de Pays d’Auge, one of the most beautiful areas of Normandy’s Calvados region. Here, you’ll find a four-hectare slice of garden paradise, showcasing many themed gardens and traditional Neo-Normand architecture. Stroll through the rose garden, September gardens, angel’s garden, and devil’s garden, all designed by landscape architect, Chantal Lejard-Gasson.

Antoine Marois

After an hour or two exploring the gardens, head for your next tasting at Antoine Marois, located just outside Cambremer. The estate produces several kinds of cider, including single-plot vintages, similar to the variety you’ll find among wines. Their ciders range from Brut to Extra Brut and even unique creations like Ice Cider. Visits and tastings are made by appointment only.

Caves du Manoir de Grandouet

Next, you’ll leave Cambremer behind, traveling east to the village of Grandouet for a stop at Caves du Manoir de Grandouet. Cider has been made in Grandouet for centuries. Take a tour of the estate, which includes a 16th-century apple press room and 100-year-old vats. Twenty-five different apple varieties are grown in the orchards here. Visitors can take a free tour, which includes a tasting and video about the production process. Norman cheeses are available for purchase at their shop, alongside cider, calvados, apple juice, and more. The estate is also a working farm that produces organic milk.

Ferme de la Valle

Your final stop for the day is just outside the tiny town of Bonnebosq, which also makes a great stop for lunch or dinner, at Ferme de la Valle. This is a large, working farm that educates both children and adults on local agricultural practices—including cider production. Ferme de la Valle offers cider and calvados tastings, made from the 22 different apple varieties that grow on the farm. This is a particularly excellent spot to stop with children who can pet the farm animals and explore the grounds and gardens.

Day 1 - Cider Route Tour Map

Day 2

Beauvron-en-Auge

Beuvron-en-Auge is possibly the most famous town along the Route du Cidre and the last major village in the loop. Touted as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France, the surrounding areas are dotted with both cider and calvados producers.

Calvados Dupont

Begin the day about 25 minutes southeast of Beuvron-en-Auge at Calvados Dupont, one of Normandy’s foremost producers of apple brandy. The Dupont family has been creating cider and calvados since 1887 at their gorgeous estate, which includes 6,000 apple trees. Using only the finest quality apples, the family has honed their technique to provide a variety of expressions, similar to wine. Visits can be made from May to September. The estate also hosts special events throughout the year, including apple harvest and heritage days.

Genevieve Denis

A small producer situated along the Route du Cidre, Genevieve Denis has been open since 1989, offering guests delicious apple products in their pretty half-timbered buildings. Visitors can see the old press alongside new facilities and taste products, including apple cider, pear cider, calvados, honey, and raw milk cheese.

Ferme Cidricole Desvoye

Ferme Cidricole Desvoye is just a few minutes down the road and produces excellent cider at their humble, organic family farm, set on 10 hectares. Visitors can see the old apple press, discover the half-timbered buildings, and even spend the night in their beautiful gîte, nestled in the orchards. They produce several ciders, calvados, pommeau, apple balsamic, jellies, jams, and more.

Chapel of Clermont

Your last stop before arriving in Beuvron-en-Auge is at the Chapelle de Clermont, nestled just 3 km north. Built in the 11th century, this small chapel is surrounded by pristine wilderness and beautiful views of the countryside.

Place Michel Vermughen

The grand finale of your trip around the Route du Cidre is visiting the quintessentially Norman village of Beuvron-en-Auge. Start in the center of the village at Place Michel Vermughen. Flanked by colorful half-timbered buildings with the market hall at its core, visitors can discover boutique shops, cafes, artisan galleries, and restaurants serving Calvados specialties.

Day 2 - Cider Route Tour Map

Other Things to Do Along the Cider Route

• Calvados Père Magloire L'Expérience: Looking to learn more about the history of calvados? Book a 45-minute interactive tour at Calvados Pere Magloire L’Experience and discover this unique spirit's past. Learn the secrets of local craftsmanship, including how calvados are made and Normandy's history. You’ll wrap up the experience with a tasting of three distinct calvados.

• Château de Crevecœur-en-Auge: Normandy was once speckled with the small castles of dozens of feudal lords; the Château de Crevecœur-en-Auge is one of these homes. Built in the 12th century, the Château de Crevecœur-en-Auge is a patchwork of architectural history, from the 12th-century moat to the 16th-century gatehouse and the Dovecote, which housed the lord’s pigeons. Discover all of this and more, including thematic exhibitions and fun Medieval events, on a visit.

• La Spiriterie Française - Château du Breuil: Located between the towns of Pont l’Eveque and Lisieux, the Chateau de Breuil doubles as one of Normandy’s premier calvados producers. Housed in a traditional, half-timbered chateau that was built in the 16th-century, the estate sprawls over 28 hectares. The distillery itself has been in operation for more than 400 years, and visitors can take a tour to learn more about the production process of calvados, descending into the aging cellar and tasting. There are also specialty tours, including the Calvados Creation, where visitors can blend their very own bottle of calvados, earning a Master Blender diploma and touring the property with the Master Blender themselves.

• Cycling or Driving the Cider Route: Forming a 40 km loop through the Normandy countryside, cycling and driving the Cider Route makes for a wonderful adventure. These roads are mostly rural, surrounded by tiny villages and apple orchards, making it a dream for cyclists in particular.

• Apple Orchard Walks: Many of the cideries and calvados producers along the Route du Cidre offer tours of their orchards. Take the time to see how the apples are cultivated and what goes into the growing process. You might even get to sample the raw product!

• Château de Canon: A small 18th-century castle outside the village of Canon, visitors can’t miss the gardens here which are particularly beautiful and sprawl over 15 hectares.

• Horseback Riding: Many of the towns and villages that are situated on the Route du Cidre offer horseback riding through the countryside. There’s also the chance to ride horses on the beach if you’re willing to drive a bit further afield. This is a particularly fun adventure for the whole family.

• Visit Local Markets: Visiting a local market is a great way to sample and shop for local apple products from small, family-owned producers. Most villages have a market day once a week, including the larger towns of Beuvron-en-Auge (every second Sunday) and Cambremer (Friday mornings).

• Luxury Spa Experience: For those craving a day of R&R, head to the resort towns of Deauville or Cabourg for a luxurious spa experience. You’ll find treatments from massage to sauna sessions and facial treatments.

• Scenic Helicopter Tour: A scenic helicopter ride over the Calvados region takes off from the seaside resort town of Deauville and flies over the D-Day Beaches and rolling landscapes of Northern Normandy.

Day Trips From the Cider Route

• Pont l’Eveque: Gourmands will be happy to know that the tiny village of Pont l’Évêque, famed for its excellent cheese of the same name, is situated just off the Route du Cidre. Thought to be one of the oldest Norman cheeses still in production, this delicious creation dates back to the 13th century. While a quaint town in its own right, everyone flocks here to try this delicious, cow’s milk fromage.

• Lisieux: Just a 30-minute drive from Beuvron-en-Auge, the small town of Lisieux is best known as a religious pilgrimage site, only second to Lourdes. The striking Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux is a mammoth Gothic cathedral in the center of town where pilgrims gather to pay homage to Saint Therese. Many come from across the world to visit The Shrine of St. Therese specifically.

• Cabourg: A seaside city situated just opposite the Orne River estuary from Ouistreham, Cabourg is another worthwhile spot to visit. Cabourg was once a popular vacation destination and has the grand oceanfront Bell-Epoque hotels to show for it. Hosting a renowned film festival each year, you’ll also find a casino, racecourse, and pretty beaches to stroll.

• Deauville/Trouville: Twin cities separated by the Touques River, Deauville and Trouville are coastal resort towns just 30 minutes from Beuvron-en-Auge. Despite its small stature, Deauville is all things luxury with spas, golf courses, several Michelin-star restaurants, and boutiques. You’ll also find a beautiful boardwalk for an intimate view of the sea.

• Caen: Entrenched in WWII history, Caen is best known for the Memorial de Caen and its D-Day Exhibit. The Caen Castle is another must-visit site and one of the largest walled fortifications in all of Europe, housing the Musée de Normandie, highlighting Normandy heritage, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Caen is just 30 minutes west from Beuvron-en-Auge.

• Honfleur: About a 40-minute drive from Beuvron-en-Auge, Honfleur is a historic port town situated on the Seine estuary. Known for the beautiful Vieux Bassin, a quaint harbor lined with colorful, half-timbered homes and restaurants, the city attracted many artists, including Monet and Degas. Many of France’s explorers left from Honfleur to explore North America.

• Bayeux: About 50 minutes northwest of Beuvron-en-Auge, Bayeux is the famous home of the Bayeux Tapestry, one of the most impressive works of Romanesque art. Detailing the Norman conquest of England by William the Conqueror, the tapestry stretches 70 meters and is housed inside the La Tapisserie de Bayeux. Aside from seeing this 11th-century masterpiece, the town of Bayeux is a charming destination in itself. Make a visit to the gargantuan Bayeux Cathedral and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy for more background on this historic Norman city.

• Mont Saint-Michel: One of the most famous destinations in France, and rightfully so with its magical appearance, Mont Saint-Michel is one hour and forty minutes from Beuvron-en-Auge and well worth the trek for a day trip. Another pilgrimage site, the Abbey Mont-Saint Michel sits atop its rocky precipice with fun shops and crepe stands clustered around its base. Surrounded by vast tidal plains that are known for being notoriously dangerous, the abbey was built in the 11th century.

• D-Day Beaches: Beuvron-en-Auge lies about one hour south of the infamous D-Day Landing Beaches. Visitors will find the most famous landing spots of Omaha and Utah just a short drive from each other. The American Cemetery is also located just opposite Omaha beach and is a harrowing must-see spot for WWII history. Several worthwhile museums, including the Overlord and the Normandy Victory Museum nearby.

• Etretat: One hour and 20 minutes north of Beuvron-en-Auge lies the stunning cliffs of Étretat. These sheer white cliffs, plunging into the English Channel, have inspired all, from famous artists to authors. Above all, this is a picturesque spot to enjoy a day in nature. Visitors can paddleboard or kayak for better views of the sea arch and cliffs or simply view them from above. The village of Étretat is also worth a visit with its quaint shops and cafes.

• Villers-sur-Mer: A small, seaside village between Deauville and Cabourg, Villers-sur-Mer is a charming and colorful city known for its cliffs and fossils. Visitors can spend the day exploring the Vaches Noir cliffs and Le Paleospace, a museum dedicated to Normandy’s dinosaurs.

• Houlgate: Houlgate is an oceanfront town on the outskirts of Cabourg, known for its charm, beachfront promenade, and casino. Similar to the larger nearby resorts of Deauville and Cabourg, Houlgate makes for a fun day trip to a smaller ville.

• Le Havre: One of France’s major northern ports, Le Havre was almost completely destroyed in WWII. The city that visitors will see today was rebuilt by architect Auguste Perret, becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can tour the modern art museum, cathedral, and admire Perret’s architectural prowess on a day trip.

• Vimoutiers: Like many cities in Normandy, Vimoutiers has ties to WWII and also happens to be the finish line of the Paris-Camembert bicycle race. This also happens to be where the famous camembert cheese was invented, signified by the town's statue of Marie Harel which stands in the center of town. WWII buffs will like visiting the Tiger tank, a German remnant from the war.

• Château de Saint-Germain-de-Livet: Located just outside Lisieux, the Château de Saint-Germain-de-Livet is one of the most striking castles in all of Normandy. A patchwork of architectural styles that construction began on in the 15th century, visitors will find classic Medieval features like a moat, half-timbered manor house, and formal gardens.

• Dives-sur-Mer: Another tiny seaside town near Houlgate and Cabourg, Dives-sur-Mer offers visitors a pretty marina to admire, a medieval covered market to explore, and an art village to shop in. This was reportedly William the Conqueror's favorite town.

Top Things to Do with Kids Along the Cider Route

• Zoo de Cerza: As the largest zoo in all of Normandy, Zoo de Cerza cares for 1,500 animals from 120 different species. Situated on 8 hectares of land, the animals have large exhibits to roam. This is the perfect outing for animal lovers and children, offering additional amusements like a 3D-cinema and a safari train. Zoo de Cerza is just 35 minutes from Beuvron-en-Auge.

• Visit the Crevecoeur Castle: Kids can take a special tour of the Crevecoeur Castle, going on the hunt for hidden baby dragons. Be sure to ask reception for a map at reception to help you in your quest.

• La Ferme du Loterot: A sprawling farm set on 15 hectares, La Ferme du Loterot is an ideal stop on the Route du Cidre for families. Children, both youngsters and teens, will love the multi-golf course, outdoor escape game, treasure hunts, giant chess, and more, scattered around the grounds.

• Cider Farm Visits: Many of the cider farms on the Route du Cidre are the perfect place to bring the kids. While parents can sip on cider and calvados, children will love seeing friendly farm animals, tasting their own apple juice, and exploring the orchards. Some of the larger farms even have educational classes and tours that are geared towards children, teaching them more about agriculture in Normandy.

Where to Eat and Drink Along the Cider Route

• Le Pave d’Auge: Possibly the most highly rated restaurant along the Route du Cidre, Le Pave d’Auge is tucked away in a traditional, half-timbered manor house, in the heart of Beuvron-en-Auge. This fine-dining establishment dishes up traditional dishes like foie gras, sweetbreads, duck breast, and Norman cheeses, alongside desserts like hot calvados souffle. Choose from a 2, 3, 4, or 5-course meal or stick to a la carte. You’ll also find the area's best calvados, cider, and wine alongside an elegant children’s menu.

• Cafe Forges: Situated in the center of Beuvron-en-Auge, Cafe Forges focuses on traditional Norman cuisine in a rustic yet cozy setting. Just some of their specialties include fire-roasted beef rib, grilled andouillette, and apple pie. Multi-course lunch menus are offered during the week.

• Au P’tit Normand: One of Cambremer’s best restaurants, Au P’tit Normand offers an elegant setting to sample traditional dishes like terrine, guinea fowl with cider, duck breast, apple and calvados sorbet, and cheeses like Pont l’Eveque. You’ll also find plenty of cider and calvados to enjoy on the terrace!

• A La Dorette: Tucked a bit more off-the-beaten path, A La Dorette is located in Bonnebosq, one of the major towns along the Route du Cidre. A charming and traditional French bistro, you’ll find delicious and comforting menu items like entrecôte, foie gras, local fish, and more.

Cider Route Golf Courses

• Golf Barrière de Deauville: Two different courses make up the beautiful Golf Barriere de Deauville. Play the Par 71, 18-hole course at Diane Barrier or the Par 36, 8-hole Lucien Barriere course. Avid golfers will also find putting courses, a driving range, and a practice bunker, along with the gorgeous Deauville Clubhouse and a pro shop.

• Golf Barriere de Saint-Julien: Situated just outside the cheese-lovers paradise of Pont l’Eveque, Golf Barriere de Saint-Julien offers avid golfers two courses to choose from, both an 18 hole, par 72 course and 9-hole, par 33 course option. Surrounded by beautiful, Norman countryside with apple trees and sprawling greens, you’ll also find training areas and a well-appointed club house and pro shop.

Cider Route Racecourses

• Hippodrome d’Angerville: Just north of Beuvron-en-Auge outside the town of Dozule, the Hippodrome d’Angerville hosts horse races in May, August, and September on its 1,075 m track. Although a bit more rustic than the grand racecourse in Deauville, enjoying a race here is a window into traditional Norman society.

• Deauville-La Touques Racecourse: Deauville-La Touques holds the most races of any racecourse in France each year. Held in the very center of town at the Hippodrome de Deauville, this racecourse is known for its ability to hold races in any season, due to its fiber-reinforced sand track, this race track is great for those both young and old, with plenty of facilities for families. This racecourse is just 30 minutes from Beuvron-en-Auge.

Where to Stay Along the Cider Route

• Le Pave d’Hotes: Situated in the charming town of Beuvron-en-Auge, Le Pave d’Hotes is housed in a quintessentially half-timbered Norman abode. Guests will find simple but cozy suites with quaint details like private garden terraces and pitched ceilings. Family suites also make this a good option for those bringing children along.

• Château de la Bribourdiere: Located just off the Route du Cidre between the villages of Beuvron-en-Auge and Dozule, Château de la Bribourdiere is a 4-star hotel set on 12 hectares of pristine Normandy landscape. With just seven rooms onsite, this boutique property provides ample peace and tranquility without skimping on luxury amenities like king-size beds, walk-in showers, and plush bathrobes. Guests will also enjoy traditional, in-room design features including original fireplaces and large windows.

• La Villa des Tilleuls: Just south of Cambremer’s Jardins du Pays d’Auge, La Villa des Tilleuls is a quaint accommodation option featuring a pretty garden and sun terrace. Enjoy continental breakfast and spacious rooms with modern yet traditional furnishings.

• Les Chambres de Pontfols: A charming B&B set in the Normandy countryside, Les Chambres de Pontfols is an intimate property of just five rooms, set in a 16th-century, half-timbered manor house. Situated between Cambremer and Beuvron-en-Auge, rooms are named for famous Norman figures like William the Conqueror and feature traditional design elements like exposed brick, antique rugs, and chandeliers. Head to the Hall of Sighs each morning for a gourmet breakfast and be sure to book one of their signature in-room massages for ultimate relaxation.

Best Time to Travel the Cider Route

The shoulder seasons are the best times to travel along Normandy’s Route du Cidre. May brings white blooms on the apple trees while fall brings autumnal foliage and the harvest seasons with bushels of apples around every corner. Keep in mind that some businesses and farms close for the winter months.

Normandy can have inclement weather at any time of year and it can be difficult to avoid the rain. Your best chance of good weather is in summer, although average precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year.

Festivals Along the Cider Route

• Beuvron-en-Auge Cider Festival: Held every October during Normandy’s apple harvest, the Beuvron-en-Auge Cider Festival celebrates all things cider and calvados. Festival-goers can take part in fun activities like apple pressing, traditional dances, and pony baptisms, alongside sampling local products like cheese, desserts, and of course, cider.

• Cambremer AOC Festival: May heralds in the Cambremer AOC Festival, a celebration of the local area's fine cheeses. Taste AOC cheese of Normandy, including Livarot, Camembert, Neufchatel, and the ever popular, Pont l’Eveque alongside cider and calvados.