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Normandy is a French region rich in history, picturesque landscapes, and culinary traditions. Among its many assets, the Cider Route stands out as a must-have experience for lovers of gastronomy and local beverages.
Stretching about 40 kilometers long, the Cider Route winds through the Pays d’Auge, a hilly and green region located in Calvados. Along this route, you can discover the secrets of cider, calvados, and pommeau production, while enjoying the charms of the Normandy countryside. Prepare yourself for a taste journey at the heart of Normandy!
Exploring the Cider Route
The Cider Route is a tourist itinerary that allows you to discover the different stages of cider, calvados, and pommeau production, while visiting local producers and tasting their products. The route begins in Cambremer, a charming village located in the heart of the Pays d’Auge, and stretches over forty kilometers through the Normandy countryside.
Along the route, you can visit about thirty producers, some of whom own centuries-old orchards and cellars. Each stop is an opportunity to discover the secrets of cider, calvados, and pommeau production, as well as the unique characteristics of the Normandy terroir.
The must-sees of the Cider Route
Among the many stops along the Cider Route, some deserve special attention, both for the quality of their products and the authenticity of their welcome:
Le Manoir du Grandouet: This family estate, located in Cambremer, offers guided tours of its orchards, cellars, and production facilities. You can taste ciders, calvados, and pommeaus, as well as local products such as goat cheese and honey.
Calvados Pierre Huet: Also in Cambremer, this house has been producing cider, calvados, and pommeau since 1865. They offer distillery tours and tastings.
La Ferme de la Vallée au Tanneur: Nestled in a bucolic setting, this 17th century farm offers tastings of cider, calvados, and pommeau, as well as cider jams and jellies. You can also admire a long-barrel press, typical of the region.
Le Domaine Dupont: This family estate, located in Victot-Pontfol, is renowned for its exceptional ciders and calvados. Guided tours allow you to discover the different stages of production, as well as the secrets of aging in oak barrels.
The best villages on the Cider Route
Beuvron-en-Auge
Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Beuvron-en-Auge is a must-see on the cider route. Its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and flower-filled gardens create a picturesque atmosphere.
Cambremer
Located in the heart of the Pays d’Auge, Cambremer is a typical village of the region. The Manoir de Grandouet, a cider farm, is an ideal place to taste cider, calvados, and pommeau.
Bonnebosq
Bonnebosq is a small village located in the Pays d’Auge region. Although less known than other villages in the region such as Beuvron-en-Auge or Cambremer, Bonnebosq offers a peaceful and typical setting of the Normandy countryside. The village is surrounded by green meadows, orchards, and hedgerows, characteristic of the Pays d’Auge.
Each of these villages and towns offers a unique charm and opportunities to taste and learn more about cider, calvados, and pommeau. Don’t hesitate to stop at the farms and cider estates along the route to discover and purchase local products.
Practical tips for enjoying the Cider Route
Plan a full day, or even two, to explore the Cider Route and fully enjoy its stops. Don’t hesitate to alternate tastings with breaks to visit the villages and cultural sites of the region.
Think about designating a sober driver if you plan to taste the different beverages offered during the visits. Alcohol consumption, of course, should be in moderation.
The Cider Route is accessible all year round, but the ideal times to discover it are spring, when the apple trees are in bloom, and autumn, during the apple harvest.
Take advantage of your stay in Normandy to discover other gastronomic specialties of the region, such as cheeses, seafood, and confectionery.
In conclusion, the Cider Route is a unique gastronomic and cultural experience in Normandy. It will allow you to discover the secrets of making cider, calvados, and pommeau, while enjoying the charms of the Normandy terroir. So don’t hesitate any longer and embark on a journey into the heart of the Normandy orchards!
