In Aubry-en-Exmes, nature and heritage offer different discoveries: the Carrière de la Tourelle is distinguished by its plant life, while the Vieux château tells a story of architecture and defence. The picture is completed by Le Tour d’Aubry, an 8 km hiking trail with a stated duration of two hours, and the cycle route “A vélo – Août 44”, which passes through Aubry-en-Exmes.
Natural Setting and Landscape
The Carrière de la Tourelle in Aubry-en-Exmes is designated an “Espace naturel sensible” by the Orne Department. Its flat, nutrient-poor limestone soil encourages rare plants that are protected in Normandy. These include the orchids Orchis pyramidal, Orchis moucheron, Ophrys araignée and Orchis bouc; the site provides them with a habitat. The site is closed to the public. It can be explored on guided visits or by taking part in a conservation work session. Dates may vary, so check the relevant visit or work-session dates when planning your visit.
Aubry-en-Exmes borders the Forêt de Gouffern. The source of the Fontaine d’Aubry is in the hamlet of Bas Aubry. The forest boundary and named spring thus provide two specific geographical points of reference for the area.
Vieux château and Local History
The Vieux château and the remains of its old keep have been classified as a historic monument since 17 April 1968. The château is a residential building from the reign of Henry IV, built on a keep believed to date from the 14th century. The keep formed part of Exmes’s medieval defence system and was intended to protect the upper valley of the Dives. The building therefore brings together several historical aspects: the keep’s possible medieval date, the period of the residential building under Henry IV, and its recorded defensive role.
On Foot and by Bike
Le Tour d’Aubry is 8 km long, with a stated duration of two hours. It starts at the church of Aubry-en-Exmes, also known as “Eglise des Trois Paroisses” or “Notre Dame de la Nativité”. The starting point gives the walk a specific connection to the area, while the distance and stated duration help you plan how much time the route will take. Allow the stated two hours and check the starting-point details before setting off, as the start arrangements may change.
Aubry-en-Exmes is also on the 26 km cycle route “A vélo – Août 44”. The route passes through strategically important sites of the Battle of Normandy in the Falaise-Chambois pocket. Its historical context broadens the perspective from the Vieux château to battle sites across a wider geographical area. The hiking trail has a stated duration and distance; the cycle route is described as a 26 km loop. Check current route conditions before setting off, as they may change.
Discover more destinations: Bagnoles-De-L'orne, Juvigny-Sous-Andaine, Nécy, Le Theil, La Ferté-Macé, Nonant-Le-Pin, Saint-Cornier-Des-Landes, Saint-Michel-Des-Andaines.
For the regional travel overview: Orne.
