Villa Sayer, the washhouses and the paths through valleys give Glanville several specific points of interest for a stay: architectural history, water and landscape sit side by side, complemented by seasonal events. You can plan your travel dates according to whether you mainly want to discover the local history or include a community programme.
Architecture and local history
Villa Sayer was built between 1973 and 1975 for industrialist Louis Sayer. It was designed by Marcel Breuer in collaboration with Italian architect Mario Jossa. It is the only residence Breuer built in France. For architecture enthusiasts, this combination of construction dates, client and collaboration offers a distinctive starting point for discovering Glanville through its architectural history.
The villa’s protected status is also precisely defined: Under a decree dated 13 May 2005, Villa Sayer, including the swimming pool and the entire property, cadastral plot B 120, was classified as a protected monument.
A different historical highlight can be found in the Church of Notre-Dame de la Nativité. Its choir contains a 17th-century high altar. Visitor arrangements may affect access to the interior; check in advance if you are planning your visit around seeing the high altar. Another local landmark is the Calvaire at the junction of Chemin du Calvaire and Route de Deauville. La Charité took part in its restoration in 1984.
Washhouses, springs and paths
The Lavoir de Glanville on Route de Deauville has been almost entirely preserved in its original form and is a “hall”-type washhouse. It is fed by the Rû Saint Clair Saulnier; part of the stream’s water is diverted. The washhouse is a place to stop during your stay, whether you are walking, cycling or driving.
A comparison with the second washhouse reveals a different relationship with water: it is located on Chemin de la Fontaine des Monts and was fed by the commune’s numerous springs. While the named stream and the partial diversion of its water are part of the setting at the Lavoir de Glanville, the second washhouse points to Glanville’s springs. According to local tradition, the spring of Saint-Méen is said to have healing properties for skin conditions.
The hiking paths in Glanville pass through douets, or small streams, and valleys. If you are looking for a named route, consider “De sources en fontaines”: the route can start in Glanville or Bourgeauville and is marked by Terre d'Auge and the Département. Before setting off, check local conditions and signage. The general paths through streams and valleys and the signposted route offer different points of reference for planning.
Annual programme and travel dates
The annual community programme includes a walk organised by the Terre d'Auge tourist office on a Thursday in July and August. A country-style meal with music is planned for September, organised by the ASP de Glanville. In August, the programme also includes an art exhibition in a church, organised by the ASP de Glanville. Events may change from year to year, so check the dates for the relevant period before travelling.
There is also a specific route connection for cycling enthusiasts: the cycling course of the Deauville–Pays d'Auge international triathlon passes through the commune of Glanville. Dates and route arrangements may change. If you want to plan your trip around the event, check the details for the relevant edition in advance.
This distinction makes a practical difference when choosing when to travel: the villa, Calvaire, washhouses and paths are local highlights, while the walk, meal, exhibition and triathlon are tied to specific dates. Architecture and landscape can therefore be the focus, while you can also choose seasonal events to suit your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Hymer, Gonneville-en-Auge, Neuilly-La-ForĂŞt, Sainte-Marguerite-d'Elle, Saint-Pierre-Azif, Le Breuil-en-Auge, Saint-Georges-En-Auge, Courseulles-Sur-Mer
For the broader travel overview: Calvados.
