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The spa town of Bagnoles-de-l’Orne boasts an idyllic setting by a lake in the middle of the forest


The sweet side of Normandy N


Sweet-toothed Leah Rottier takes us on a tour of the property market in Orne, stopping off at three renowned gourmet confectionary makers


ormandy 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


the lake, before heading off to the shops to indulge in the local treat… macarons! Henri Lenoir introduced


Macarons are Bagnoles’ speciality


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


48 FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS: May/June 2024


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


On the market


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


€118,160 Bagnoles-de-l’Orne Quaint two-bed single-storey home with new patio area, large basement, lovely garden with mature trees, in a calm setting (Agence Bagnoles Immobilier)


€176,800 Bagnoles-de-l’Orne In the beautiful village of Juvigny, large four-bedroom house with basement; well-maintained garden with magnificent views (Agence Bagnoles Immobilier)


© SHUTTERSTOCK & ETRIERS NORMANDS


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