The Orne estuary

The main protected natural area of ​​Calvados, the Orne estuary is a site of major ecological interest. The bay of Orne extends over 5 municipalities at the junction of Côtes Fleurie and Côtes de Nacre. This space offers a natural break in the heart of a highly urbanized coastline.

Between land and sea, the most original aquatic fauna and flora can be observed there. More than 400 species of birds have been counted there. This "nature" gateway extends over 1000 ha of which more than 300 are the property of the Conservatoire du Littoral. The emblematic places for strolling are the Pointe du Siege and the ornithological reserve of the Gros Banc.

At the heart of this space and on the shore of Sallenelles, the Maison de la nature et de l'estuaire, property of the Calvados department, houses an interpretation center which gives the keys to reading this natural space as well as temporary exhibitions themes. This house is also a place of reception, information and information for visitors, on what they can see and observe on the site. A Biodiversity Information Point has been in place since June 2017 to provide information on any type of request related to nature and the environment. Various services are offered to visitors: program of nature-discovery activities, room rental, shop area, picnic area...

Site open to the public with the possibility of multi-practical hikes on site, observation towers 6 m and 12 m high allow you to discover the mouth of the Orne estuary.
Ask for more info at the Maison de la nature et de l'estuaire.

Visit languages

• Français
• English

Equipments

• Picnic area.
• Banks

Documents to download

Videos