Basseneville can be explored through three distinct themes: religious architecture, landscapes and horse-related activities. Architectural landmarks include the Chapelle Saint-Richer and Notre-Dame Church; the landscape is shaped by the protected Dives marshes and the bocage of the Pays d’Auge. Riding lessons, hacks and equicoaching add a range of horse-related activities to these themes. When planning your trip, it is helpful to consider in advance which of these themes you would like to shape your stay.
Churches with distinct building histories
The Chapelle Saint-Richer is a 15th-century half-timbered building on a flint foundation. The half-timbering and flint provide two distinct architectural features: one refers to the construction method, the other to the foundation material. The chapel is among the churches and chapels in Basseneville that attract attention for their individual character or setting. Its religious significance is also reflected in an enduring practice: pilgrims continue to pray to the sculpture of Saint Riquier, the healer, for relief from fever.
Notre-Dame Church was built or extended in the 13th, 15th and 17th centuries. Its construction history therefore spans several centuries. A pointed triumphal arch separates the choir from the nave; the church is also recognizable by its onion-shaped dome. The arch marks a specific division within the church, while the dome is a distinctive feature of its form. Compared with the Chapelle Saint-Richer, Notre-Dame is characterized by its multiple building phases and the combination of an arch and a dome, while the chapel is defined by its half-timbering and flint.
The landscapes of the Dives and the Pays d’Auge
The protected Dives marshes near Basseneville are notable for their rich biodiversity. The bocage landscape of the Pays d’Auge near Basseneville is shaped by cattle and horses. The two landscapes have distinct characteristics: biodiversity is the main feature of the marshes, while cattle and horses shape the scenery of the bocage.
Horse riding and equicoaching
The Centre équestre des Picotains offers riding lessons for all levels, from baby pony to Galop 7, as well as hacks. The activities also include riding courses, training sessions and activities related to riding and trail riding. Lessons, courses and training sessions are available alongside hacks and trail-riding activities. If a particular activity is essential to your plans, check its availability before your trip.
An equicoaching centre in the vicinity of Basseneville uses the relationship between people and horses to develop self-analysis skills and understanding of one’s relationships with others. Visitors are seen by appointment only; arrange a time before travelling there. The focus differs from riding lessons: while lessons range from baby pony to Galop 7, equicoaching is about self-analysis and understanding one’s relationships with others.
Discover more destinations: La Cambe, Auberville, Villers-Bocage, Surville, Les Authieux-Sur-Calonne, Les Loges-Saulces, Thury-Harcourt, Merville-Franceville-Plage.
For the broader travel overview: Calvados.
