Auvillars: Church, Brickworks and Route du Cidre

If you are looking for a hotel in Auvillars, you can get a sense of the village through its distinct themes: protected church architecture, the history of a brickworks, a traditional producer on the Route du Cidre, and a walking route starting at the church. These themes represent different sides of the village. The church and industrial history can be clearly distinguished by period; a farm visit and a walk, in turn, offer different ways to plan your trip. This can help you decide whether architectural history, agricultural processing or an outdoor excursion is of particular interest for your stay.

Church and Industrial History

The Église Saint-Germain is listed in its entirety as a historic monument; this protection has been in place since 17 July 1926. Its choir dates from the 12th century. These dates mark two different periods: the date of the choir refers to one part of the church, while 1926 marks the start of the monument’s protection in its entirety. Those interested in architecture can thus distinguish the church’s earlier building history from its later legal designation as a protected monument.

The industrial past is another historical thread. The “Briqueterie” brickworks in the hamlet of Forge à Planche was built in 1879; drying rooms and a shed were added in 1933. In 1937, the Briqueterie produced facing bricks, hollow bricks and drainage pipes. Its production therefore included more than one type of brick, as well as drainage pipes. The brickworks ceased operations around 1970. Parts of the buildings were subsequently demolished, including the buildings housing the kiln; industrial remains have been preserved. The sequence of construction, the addition of extra rooms, production and later partial demolition makes it possible to trace several stages of this industrial history.

Fruit and a Visit to the Farm

Ferme de la vallée au tanneur is a traditional producer on the Route du Cidre in Auvillars. Produce from 20 apple and pear varieties is processed entirely on the farm. The business thus combines a variety of fruit with on-site processing. For travellers wishing to include an agricultural focus in their choice of destination, alongside architectural and industrial history, this is another aspect to consider.

For groups of at least eight people, the Ferme offers a guided tour lasting about an hour and a free tasting. The duration is approximate, while the minimum group size is part of the stated group policy. If you plan to visit the farm, check the arrangements before your trip, as they may change.

Nature and Walking Route

A nature inventory dated 2025 lists Auvillars as a commune within the ZNIEFF area “Marais de la Dives et ses affluents.” One specific walking option is the “Au départ d'Auvillars” route: it starts at the church car park and passes through shady stretches of woodland with a few climbs. Seasonal mud should be taken into account along the route. The area designation provides a regional nature reference; the starting point and route features, by contrast, help describe this particular walking option. Trip planning can therefore draw on both a broader connection to the area and specific details about one route.

Discover more destinations: Osmanville, Le Manoir, Arromanches-Les-Bains, Saint-Jean-De-Livet, Bons-Tassilly, Longraye, Moyaux, Bellou.

For the broader travel overview: Calvados.