The Vélofrancette: Green route of the Suisse Normande from Caen - Thury Harcourt (V43)

The Vélofrancette – Green Route of Swiss Normandy: an enchanting route from Caen to Thury-Harcourt

The Vélofrancette, identified as the V43 in the National Cycling Plan, offers a unique cycling experience between Caen and Thury-Harcourt thanks to a greenway developed on a former railway line. This route 28 km It follows the meanders of the Orne River through changing landscapes, between urban heritage and unspoiled nature. It forms an emblematic section of the national route linking Ouistreham to La Rochelle, and offers a gentle introduction to the hills of the Suisse Normande region, without major difficulties.

From the very first kilometers, the route leaves the historic heart of Caen, a former ducal city founded by William the Conqueror. It passes the marina and several natural areas, such as the racecourse and a protected natural area, providing welcome green spaces in the urban environment. Crossing the city offers the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks: the Caen Castle, one of the largest in Europe, the abbeys founded by William and Matilda, as well as renowned museums such as the Normandy Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts.

As you travel along the route, the town gradually fades into the distance, giving way to a peaceful valley where the Orne River meanders freely. Developed in 2013, the greenway connects Louvigny to the Grimbosq Forest, and since 2014, to Thury-Harcourt, offering a completely safe route ideal for outings with family or friends. Following the old railway line ensures a gentle gradient while revealing the wild beauty of the Suisse Normande region. Nature is ever-present: woods, meadows, cliffs, and small villages dot the landscape.

This section is also distinguished by its seamless connection with other major cycle routes: notably the Caen – Ouistreham greenway, which allows direct access to the sea and extends the route to more than 30 km on its own right-of-way.

Along the way, several tourist stops are worth a break: the Jardin des Plantes from Caen, the Caen Memorial, Nature Discovery Museum, as well as various equipment such as Roll on, YOUTH, a bike and e-bike rental service. In Thury-Harcourt, the landscapes become more rugged, heralding the iconic reliefs of Suisse Normande, ideal for lovers of hiking, canoeing or climbing.

Easily accessible, the route is served by the Caen train stationConnected to main lines and regional trains (TER), allowing for intermodal bike-train travel. The weekly markets in Caen (Friday and Sunday) and Thury-Harcourt (Tuesday) offer the opportunity to sample local produce before or after your ride.

In short, this section of La Vélofrancette harmoniously combines culture, nature and heritage for a gentle and accessible escape in the heart of Normandy.