Saveurs de Suisse Normande

Nestling in the heart of Norman Switzerland, the village of Clécy has managed to safeguard and enhance its built heritage and preserve a remarkable and renowned landscape The projects carried out over the years are in perfect harmony with the spirit and objectives of the "Village de caractère du Calvados" label that the commune obtained in 2018. Clécy is the ideal base from which to explore the verdant panoramas of this Swiss Normandy, the Vélofrancette, the Rochers des Parcs, the Pain de Sucre, the Eminence or the Croix de la Faverie. Nature is nearby, it surrounds Clécy: no wonder that its surroundings are identified by lovers of the outdoors and adrenaline as a corner of freedom. Below the village, they can admire the large loop that the river draws in the rocks of the Armorican massif.

The River Orne runs alongside the abrupt crags, dominated by a rock referred to as the Pain de Sucre (literally sugar bread), at the extremity of the La Houle rocks with which it forms the "Route des Crêtes" (the Crest Route).

It is said that during Charlemagne's reign, a fortress already stood on this spot overlooking the former road to Brittany. The oldest vestiges, discovered during ongoing archaeological excavation, date back to the 10th century. Ralf de Pomeroy was among the companions who accompanied William on his conquest of England. The family had many possessions in England and founded Val Abbey in the nearby parish of Saint-Omer. The castle and its grounds underwent many transformations up to the 13th century, before being abandoned. Its picturesque ruins, including an impressive porch tower, nestling amidst the woods, are within a perfect romantic atmosphere for inspiring reverie and legends, including that of Mellia la Blonde.

The Cave de la Loterie is an organic cider farm located on the slopes of the Suisse Normande area. Come and take a relaxing break at this Suisse Normande cider farm! During your visit, Régis Aubry extends a warm welcome and accompanies you on a stroll through the orchards. He explains how his products are made, from apple juice to calvados, via a range of ciders (made from 30 different apple varieties), poiré (perry), cider vinegar, apple jelly, Pommeau de Normandie and his latest creation, ‘R'Êve de Poire’. Finally, the boutique offers the entire Cave de la Loterie range of products for sale, following a tasting session. An area devoted to local producers enables you to discover many other local flavours. Guided tours of the cellars followed by a tasting session (total time around 1 hour 30 minutes), by appointment all year and at 2.30pm from 9th July to 24th August. Rates: €2/person, free for children.