Caen: culture, history and the Norman art of living
The historic capital of Basse-Normandie, Caen is a dynamic city rich in heritage and culture, just 30 minutes from Camping La Roseraie d’Omaha. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of urban strolls or looking for a city break between two nature escapades, Caen is well worth a visit.
A city marked by William the Conqueror
Caen is inextricably linked with William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy and King of England. It was in the 11th century that the town really took off, with the construction of major monuments:
Caen Castle
One of the largest fortified enclosures in Europe, it is now home to the Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and is a must-see for a better understanding of the region.
The Men’s Abbey and the Ladies’ Abbey
Two masterpieces of Romanesque architecture bear witness to the duke’s ambition as a builder. These historic sites also offer peaceful gardens in the heart of the city.
An accessible family destination
Caen is a city designed for everyone, including families on vacation. Green spaces such as the Jardin des Plantes and the Parc Michel d’Ornano offer a natural setting in the heart of the city, perfect for a break with the kids. The many cultural events and festivals organized throughout the year, such as the Rendez-vous de la BD, make Caen a lively destination, where history meets entertainment in a safe and pleasant setting.
An immersion in Norman art and culture
Caen also appeals to lovers of art and regional heritage. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, located within the château, boasts a remarkable collection of European paintings, from the Renaissance to modern art. The Musée de Normandie, meanwhile, highlights the traditions, skills and evolution of Norman life over the centuries. It’s an exciting way to round off your camping holiday with an immersion in the region’s cultural identity. A lively, charming city
Beyond its medieval past, Caen is a welcoming, modern city where you can enjoy a pleasant stroll. Its historic center, largely rebuilt after the Second World War, combines pedestrian streets, lively squares, markets and local stores.
The quays of the Orne are perfect for a stroll at the end of the day, between barges, terraces and green spaces.
The Quartier du Vaugueux, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and restaurants, is a real favorite with visitors.
Every Friday and Sunday morning, Caen’s markets offer local produce, fresh fish and regional specialities in a friendly atmosphere.
A place of remembrance for the Second World War The city of Caen was also strongly marked by the bombardments of 1944, during the Battle of Normandy. Today, it is a key place of remembrance, thanks in particular to the famous Mémorial de Caen, recognized as one of Europe’s finest museums dedicated to peace and the history of the 20th century.
This museum offers an immersive journey from the Treaty of Versailles to the Cold War, with a poignant focus on D-Day and the Liberation. It’s an essential visit if you want to grasp the magnitude of the events that took place in Normandy.
Why include Caen on your Norman itinerary? To discover a richly contrasting city, between ancient heritage and contemporary dynamism.
Visit major historical sites in a pleasant, accessible setting.
Enjoy a wide range of cultural and gastronomic activities, just a stone’s throw from nature.
And above all, to complete your camping holiday with an immersion in the history of Normandy.
An ideal urban getaway from the campsite
Less than 40 km from our campsite, Caen is easily accessible by car. It’s a perfect day trip, combining culture, gastronomy and historical discoveries. After a visit to the museums, a break in a park or lunch on the terrace, you can return to the calm and greenery of your accommodation in the heart of the Bessin region.
