Sweet-toothed Leah Rottier takes us on a tour of the property market in Orne, stopping off at three renowned gourmet confectionary makers
Normandy is known throughout the world for its magnificent D-day beaches and its impressive landmarks.
Tourists flock here every year to climb the winding streets of Mont-St-Michel, marvel at the white cliffs of Étretat and visit the majestic cathedral in Rouen. Gastronomy is a passion here, and the apple and cider production is sizable, with over 800 apple varieties grown in the region. But away from the big cities and crowded beaches, there’s a small area of Normandy, in the department of Orne, that is a gastronomical paradise all on its own.
The area around the Forêt des Andaines isn’t just a haven for nature lovers with its long, leafy trails and densely wooded forests. It’s also the ideal place to find decadent macarons, traditional sablés and artisanal chocolates. Once coveted by Parisians and visitors seeking second homes, the area is now also sought after by those looking for affordable primary residences in this peaceful corner of Orne.
BAGNOLES-DE-L’ORNE
This jewel in the heart of the Andaines Forest has long been known as a thermal spa town with its rejuvenating treatments. With a beautiful Art Deco casino dating from the 1920s, a magnificent château in a public park and a stunning lake, this lively town is picture-postcard perfect. Visitors come here to stroll through the compact town centre and dine alfresco in one of the restaurants overlooking the lake, before heading off to the shops to indulge in the local treat… macarons!
Henri Lenoir introduced his artisanal macarons to Bagnoles-de-l’Orne in 1946, using his ‘meringue à la française’ base. They quickly became a huge success and his traditional recipe was passed down from generation to generation. Locals and visitors alike were tempted with mouth-watering flavours, including pistachio, coffee, lemon and chocolate, and the macarons soon became the ‘gourmand’ symbol of the town. People continue to come here from all over the world to stock up on their favourite sweet treats at Maison Casati. Bagnoles-de-l’Orne is not a big town by any means – its population rarely surpasses the 3,000 mark – but it is surprisingly full of activities for all ages. From nature trails in the woods and acrobatic circuits in the trees, to art exhibitions in the château and summer jazz evenings in the park, there is something for everyone in this lovely town.
