5 ideas to awaken your senses in autumn

It's time to put away your swimsuit and get back into the rhythm of your daily routine. But the end of the summer chapter doesn't mean that vacations, relaxation and travel are over! With the arrival of the second most beautiful season of the year, discover how to lift your spirits and awaken your senses in autumn!

Summary: What to do to enjoy the Indian summer and awaken your senses in autumn

1. Strolling in the forest in the colors of autumn
2. Visiting picturesque villages in autumn
3. Visiting castles
4. Treat yourself to a gourmet escape
5. Participate in local festivities

Bright colors alert! Indian summer is coming and with it the forests are putting on their most beautiful coats. So, do the same! Red, gold or copper shades from head to toe: let the shimmering colors speak and embark on an enchanted stroll.

There are some good things about going out of season!

1. Walk in the forest in the colors of autumn

With your best boots (or your most rustic hiking shoes), go breathe the fresh air and enjoy the soft light of the season. Observe the branches moving in the wind, feel the leaves cracking under each of your steps, and scan in the distance (if you are lucky and patient) the few animals of the forest that are discreet and preparing for winter.

If Grandmother Foliage's voice doesn't guide you like Pocahontas, we advise you to organize your itinerary to avoid a disenchanted walk! For example, you can walk on the side of Beuvron-en-Auge and discover the chapel of Clermont which offers a beautiful landscape, you stroll between land and sea following the personalised tour which runs along the cliffs of Black Cowss and goes through Gonneville sur Mer, gain height and admire the panorama that unfolds from the Houlgate orientation table or simply enjoy the island of Robehomme which is home to numerous animal and plant species.

To go further, read our article from country heritage for a journey full of spirituality and history.

2. Visit picturesque villages in autumn

What could be better than the fall season to visit picturesque villages and learn more about their history. Let yourself be carried away by the half-timbering of Beuvron-en-Auge, our village with its typical Norman label Most Beautiful Villages of FranceOnce there, stroll around Place Michel Vermughen and visit the artisans and traders who keep the village spirit alive.

If you are into medieval, take the road towards Dives-sur-Mer and go to meet the art village of William the Conqueror, a medieval gem in the heart of the oldest industrial city in the region.

To go further, do not hesitate to read our article on arts and crafts.

Finally, lovers of villas and the Belle Époque can head to Houlgate et Cabourg for a walk between the seaside and architecture.

Did you know? The tourist office offers guided tours during school holidays. Don't hesitate to register to discover our towns and villages in a different way.

3. Visit castles

And yes, beyond the villas and manors which are, as you might expect, the markers of Normandy but also of our territory, you can visit castles and their gardens during your stay with us. These buildings, all as majestic and resplendent as each other, will be happy to pose for a few selfies. You can thus discover the Mézidon-Canon Castle (where the family's descendants still live) but also stroll through the park and gardens which extend over 15 hectares.

To go back in time to the Middle Ages, you don't need a machine. Just go to the Crevecoeur Castle to immerse yourself in a typical world where moats, farmyard and high tower are still present. Lovers of antique furniture will appreciate visiting Vendeuvre Castle to switch to the Age of Enlightenment and find preserved period decoration.

Are you feeling like living the life of a lord (or duke)? Don't hesitate to read our dedicated article to find out where to sleep in a mansion or castle.

4. Treat yourself to a gourmet escape

After hearing and sight, it's time to awaken other senses like taste and smell. To do this, we offer you a gourmet escape with autumnal flavors. Don't worry, we're not going to suggest you go back to the forest to pick mushrooms, unless you're an expert. Instead, it's an invitation to the kingdom of smells and flavors: head to the local markets where producers await you and present their finest products.

You can start by stocking up on iodine by going to the Fish market in Dives-sur-Mer and choose which fish or seafood you will enjoy for your next meal. Continue with the covered markets or go directly to the producers for even more authenticity.

Apple, carrot, pumpkin, leek, parsnip, potato, spinach, squash and many other fruits and vegetables are waiting to tickle your taste buds.

On the way back, take the Cider Route and collect some sparkling beverages. And yes, you might be surprised to learn that cider can accompany your meal, from aperitif to dessert.

To go further, do not hesitate to consult our article on the Cider Route.

5. Participate in local fall festivities

If there is one holiday to remember for your fall getaway, it is the Cider and Apple Festivaland because it’s authentic, because there’s cider and because there are apples. Still not convinced? Here are a few more reasons:

• the event takes place in Beuvron-en-Auge, our typical Norman village worthy of a postcard
• There are many activities for young and old children
• An apple pressing workshop is offered to you so you can leave with your own apple juice, pressed using the power of your hands!

In addition to this iconic festival of the Pays d'Auge, you can also enjoy the exhibitions which take place throughout the territory.

Our 5 ideas are coming to an end. Before we leave you, here are two last suggestions to bring a touch of sweetness to your stay : think of gîtes and guest rooms to cultivate Norman cocooning and opt for a curative relaxation session with sea salt to fully awaken your senses.