The département of Calvados' leading natural preserved site, the Orne estuary is of major ecological interest. It provides a habitat for a remarkable array of fauna and flora, including many rare species, protected regionally or nationally. Marked walking routes, orienteering tables, information panels and observatories offer visitors the ideal environment to discover the estuary.
In the heart of this natural site, the Maison de la nature et de l’estuaire (Nature and estuary centre), the property of the Calvados Council, invites you to discover the estuary's many treasures.

One of the Allied high command’s key targets on D-Day, the Merville Artillery Battery was put out of action by the British 9th Parachute Battalion.

Within a preserved site covering several hectares, an educational trail takes you past 6 bunkers, now converted into museums. An example of the legendary Douglas C-47 that took part in the Normandy Landings is on display in the museum grounds.

Guided tour by appointment only

Built around 1060 by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy then King of England, the ducal castle in Caen is now home to the Musée de Normandie (Normandy Museum) and the Musée des Beaux Arts (Museum of Fine Arts).

Located in the immediate vicinity of the D-Day Landing beaches, the Mémorial de Caen visitor centre is among the must-see sites focusing on the Battle of Normandy and 20th century history.

From the origins of World War II to the end of the Cold War, museographical displays tell of these dark pages of 20th century history.
Caen, bombarded during the summer of 1944, a liberated yet martyred city, deserved a tribute well worthy of the suffering it endured.
Such is the aim of the Mémorial de Caen, but via action with a perpetual perspective - that of reconciliation.

Over your visit, you will discover the historic events that marked World War II, from the onslaught of Nazism to the Normandy landings, via the Holocaust. Several films ensure a comprehensive and diversified visit. A museum area is specially devoted to the Cold War and to press illustrations.

Constantly renewed for over ten years, the centre is at the heart of current reflection on the place of History in our societies.
New film, ‘1944: Saving Europe’.

Audio guides are available in French, English, German, Spanish, Italian and Dutch.

Guided tours available through the trail focusing on World War II. You can also complete your visit over a guided tour of the D-Day Landing beaches or a city tour of Caen.