*** The Suisse Normande is very aptly named as the area has a truly Swiss feel to it. The landscape is hilly, with fantastic views. It is perfect for all kinds of outdoors activities. Horse Riding (we have an Irish bloodstock breeder locally) Walking around the magnificent Roches d'Oetre site (just 2kms away from L'Orangerie) on the famous GR36 footpath. Kayaking at Pont d'Ouilly - a village Fleurie covered in flowers during the Summer. Dance at the Guingette (tea dance) by the banks of the Orne locally every Sunday in the Summer. Visit Bayeux and see the magnificent Cathedral and famous Tapestry. 70 minutes away is the port of Honfleur, full of art galeries and wonderful seafood restaurants - well worth the trip. If you have more time, pop to the Loire in just 3 hours or Disneyland Paris (3 hours away). Trains leave for Paris from Briouze local station. L'Orangerie makes a great base for tourists - we have lived there for 20 years and every year brings us new adventures. 
 
Of a night, the owls hoot across the valley behind the house. During the day, you can see red squirrels, hares, and many red kites, kestrels and other birds. If you are lucky, you may spot a wild boar on the route back home during the night (we have twice). Because there is no town-light to destroy the view, when the skies are clear, you can see so many stars that you will be dizzy looking up - it is magnificent. 
 
The area is steeped in history, from William The Conquerer (born locally) to the many historic Chateaux to visit. The landing beaches are about 45 minutes from L'Orangerie and they are fabulously sandy beaches for a day out with the family by the sea,  
 
Local restaurants specialise in seafoods and wonderful creamy Normandy sauces. Do not leave without having sampled a 'Trou Normande' - a wonderful palette cleanser made from fabulous locally produced Calvedos (the property is on the Orne/Calvedos border, so you will not miss out).