 Caumont L'evente
is a small rural hamlet, 35 km west of Caen. The nearby Souterroscope
des Ardoisieres is well worth a visit - created within the old
slate mines, it highlights the little-known world of geodes (a
geode is a sphere shaped rock which contains a hollow cavity
lined with crystals), with long passages and huge halls. Following
the alternating lights you get a guided tour, in French or English,
offering an impressive views, with mirrors and lights to create
your own lightshow. This small unspoilt area of countryside is
on the edge of the plain of Caen, the Bessin and the Bocage wooded
countryside. Caumont L'evente farmers and craftsmen still
use their traditional methods and techniques to produce the regional
specialities such as honey, cheese, traditional breads, foie
gras, cider, pommeau and calvados. The attractive countryside
around Caumont L'evente is dotted with old villages, churches,
chapels and ancient architectural heritage. |
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Normandy gets its name from the Viking Norsemen who
sailed up the River Seine in the 9th century and colonized the
area, making Rouen their capital. Normandy has large ports with
important transatlantic trade, whilst inland it is overwhelmingly
agricultural. The image of Normandy is one of a lush, tranquil,
pastoral region of apple orchards, contented cattle, Calvados
and Camembert. There are ancient picturesque ports such as Honfleur
to visit, seaside resorts with elegant promenades, splendid centuries-old
half-timbered manor houses lining quiet countryside lanes and
extrordinary Romanesque and Gothic architectural treasures. |
