In Auvillars, history stretches from a choir dating back to the 12th century to industrial brickworks. At the same time, a farm on the Cider Route processes products made from apple and pear varieties entirely on site. A walking route starting at the church car park adds another distinct focus. This makes it possible to consider cultural history, the farm’s offerings and a walk through woodland separately, and to prioritise them according to your own interests.
Brickworks and surviving industrial remains
The “Briqueterie” brickworks in the Forge à Planche district of Auvillars was built in 1879; drying rooms and a shed were added in 1933. In 1937, the Briqueterie d’Auvillars produced facing bricks, hollow bricks and drainpipes. The Briqueterie ceased operations around 1970. Parts of the buildings were subsequently demolished, including the buildings containing the kiln; industrial remains have survived. The dates mark different stages: construction, structural additions, production and, finally, the end of operations. It is also important to distinguish between the former works and the remains that have been preserved: parts of the site no longer exist, while industrial traces remain.
Church and heritage history
Two dates come together at Église Saint-Germain. Its choir dates back to the 12th century; the entire church has been listed as a historic monument since 17 July 1926. Thus, a specific medieval architectural feature stands alongside the protected status of the church as a whole. Those interested in architectural history will find a specific point of reference here that encompasses both the choir’s date of origin and the church’s later listing.
The Manoir de La Bruyère also offers several distinct points of interest for architectural and garden history. The manor’s cider press dates from the late 15th century. The façades and roofs of the manor and press building, as well as the press and its mechanism, are listed as historic monuments. The garden was listed by decree on 16 June 2008. The date of the press and the date the garden was listed therefore refer to different things: the age of a historic object and the date of a later protection decision.
Farm products and the Cider Route
Ferme de la vallée au tanneur is a traditional producer on the Cider Route in Auvillars. Products made from 20 apple and pear varieties are processed entirely on the farm; the range may change. Groups of at least eight people can take an approximately one-hour guided tour and enjoy a free tasting. As visitor arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them before travelling.
Walking and nature
The “Au départ d’Auvillars” route starts at the church car park and passes through shady woodland with some uphill sections. Mud may be expected seasonally along the route; you can take this into account when choosing when to go and what footwear to wear. The route therefore offers practical information for planning a walk, while Auvillars’ inclusion in the “Marais de la Dives et ses affluents” ZNIEFF area provides context for the commune’s natural environment. These answer different questions: the area’s inclusion indicates its connection to the natural heritage inventory, while the route describes its starting point and terrain. Together with the cultural and farm offerings, this provides several clearly distinct focuses for a stay in Auvillars.
Discover more destinations: Thury-Harcourt, Cardonville, Monfréville, Grandcamp-Maisy, Englesqueville En Auge, Épron, Vieux, Saint-Gatien-Des-Bois
For the regional travel overview: Calvados.
