1. The Jardin des Plantes in Caen
In the heart of the city, the Jardin des Plantes showcases thousands of plant varieties. The exotic greenhouses and plant collections include some rare plants.
A true botanical garden, it is both a place for the conservation and presentation of species, and a space for education and raising awareness of eco-gardening practices and respect for the environment.
The Jardin des Plantes de Caen is remarkable in more ways than one, and has been awarded the title of "Botanical Garden of France and French-speaking countries". It was founded in 1689 by Jean-Baptiste Callard de la Ducquerie. His work was continued by Professor François Marescot, but it was not until after the French Revolution that the botanical garden was enlarged. The additional 3.5 hectares were designed by Caen architect Dufour and laid out by Herment.
2. Garden Valley
La Vallée des Jardins, an 11-hectare green space in the center of Caen, is the ideal place to recharge your batteries in the heart of nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
This park, redesigned in three zones, offers a fascinating diversity of plant life. At the base, perennials thrive at the foot of a limestone cliff. Higher up, hardy lawns, white hawthorns and elderberries enrich the landscape. Finally, the upper arboretum is home to a unique collection of trees, including 13 remarkable species such as the Virginia tulip tree, downy oak, Napoleon pine and California nutmeg.
The Vallée des Jardins is also a great place for sporting activities such as jogging, cycling and disc golf.
3. La Prairie de Caen
With its 90 hectares just a stone's throw from the city center, this is another of Caen's green lungs. This natural site is part of the city's historic heritage. As early as 1027, the Prairie was recognized as "la chose du Duc" (the Duke's property), before passing into the hands of the Abbaye aux Hommes. Listed in the 1932 inventory, the site is now protected.
To the east, La Prairie is home to the racecourse and its ochre dirt track, where some thirty horse races are held every year.
But it's also a park made up of wet gardens. As such, the site is also a bird sanctuary and observation area. The lake to the west, where the Orne floods, is a favorite haunt for herons, cormorants and moorhens.
4. Parc de la Colline aux Oiseaux
To the north-west of the city, close to the Caen Memorial, lies the Colline aux Oiseaux. This 17-hectare landscaped park is free to enter.
You can wander freely through the mosaic of gardens and discover magnificent panoramic views over Caen. The Parc de la Colline aux Oiseaux also offers a rose garden, a labyrinth, a positive house and environmental preservation activities.
Given the beauty of the site, it's hard to believe that it stands on the site of a former landfill. However, it was only after some twenty years' work that the Parc de la Colline aux Oiseaux was inaugurated in 1994.
Plan your trip to Caen by booking a flight
5. The greenway from Caen to the sea
On foot or by bike, take the green route from Caen city center to Pegasus Bridge, then on to Ouistreham. This historic route follows in the footsteps of the 1944 military operation that contributed to the liberation of the town, passing in front of Café Gondrée, the first house liberated during the D-Day landings.
Continuing along the voie verte, you'll enjoy a natural setting along the canal, dotted with benches for resting. When the Ouistreham lighthouse appears in the distance, you'll be close to the port.
Continue your walk to the Orne estuary or Ouistreham Riva-Bella beach, where you can enjoy the fine sand and dip your feet in the water.
The estuary, classified Natura 2000, is a haven of unspoilt nature, ideal for observing rare species. Bring binoculars to spot birds such as cuckoos, shovelers and gravelots, as well as calf seals.