Photo gallery
About the region
The French department of Calvados forms part of the region of Basse-Normandie in Normandy and is surrounded by the departments of Seine-Maritime, Eure, Orne, and Manche.. It takes its name from a cluster of rocks off the coast.
Region areas
The department of Calvados has several areas that are visited by tourists: The Bessin, the Plaine of Caen, the Bocage Virois, the Cote Fleurie and the Pays d’Auge. Several beaches of Calvados are popular for water sports, including Cabourg and Merville Franceville.
Attractions
Calvados is a region that has managed to keep its medieval charm in spite of modern transformation and technological improvements. It still showcases the history and culture gained along the years while incorporating modern attractions such as casinos or parks.
Transportation
The department of Calvados is serviced by to airports, Caen and Deauville. Although you might think the region is very accessible if it has two airports, think again. Some parts of the region are very secluded, but for good reason. They offer some of the most spectacular view ever seen.
Events
The events of Calvados revolve along the cinematographic industry, as it hosts several film festivals featuring celebrities such as Brad Pitt or Harrison Ford. Not less important is the yearly marathon that gives its participants a chance to enjoy the sights of the area along with their workout.
Restaurants & Nightlife
A little bit of something for everyone from sports and pubs for pool and soccer fans to French or English oriented restaurant, Calvados has it all. It is just a matter of time and taste in choosing where to go and how long you stay. Still, offering a good time is something almost all locals have in common.
History & Civilization
The department was created in the French Revolution, March 4, 1790, under the law of 22 December 1789, from a part of the former province of Normandy. At that time it was planned to call it Lower-Orne, before choosing its current name.
Caen Castle – Historical Monument
Once the most famous castle in Normandy, Chateau Caen is considered today a historic monument. The castle now serves as home to the Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Normandy, Saint Georges church, Exchequer of Normandy and a garden of plants cultivated in the Middle Ages.