La Croupte – Church, Spring and Trails

Two themes work well together for a stay in La Croupte: the Église Saint-Martin and its building history, and the Fontaine aux guenilles with its washhouse. There are also old quarries and several route connections. This lets you explore the place from different perspectives: as the site of a protected church, the setting for a local spring tradition, and a landmark on documented routes.

Église Saint-Martin and its building history

The Église Saint-Martin was listed as a historic monument by decree on December 30, 1986. The protection also covers the choir’s stucco decoration. Two periods are given for the building’s history: the 15th century and the second half of the 18th century. If you are exploring the church, its dating and choir decoration offer specific points of reference.

Washhouse, spring and local tradition

La Croupte also has old quarries. They are a distinct point of interest alongside the church, washhouse and spring, extending the theme beyond sacred architecture and spring traditions. A small path leads downhill from the Église Saint-Martin to the washhouse and the miraculous Fontaine aux guenilles spring. The route as described connects the church with the water site in a clear sequence: church, descent, washhouse and spring. Saint Laurent, Saint Fiacre and Saint Martin are invoked at the Fontaine. The path to the spring therefore also offers a cultural perspective. A 2020 municipal bulletin mentioned a sign at the washhouse with information about the ritual. If you are looking for this explanation on site, check whether the sign is still there.

Walking routes around La Croupte

The “Fervaques, un patrimoine sauvegardé” walking trail passes by the church in La Croupte. A route description from August 2026 specifies yellow markings. At one point, the route crosses a stream by a bridge; then you walk 20 metres to the right and climb uphill along a path. Markings and trail conditions can change, so check the route information before setting out.

Another route description covers the fourth stage of “La Chevauchée du Pays d’Auge à la Seine.” It leads from Notre-Dame-de-Courson to the miraculous waters of the spring in La Croupte, then continues towards Fervaques. The two descriptions focus on different things: the “Fervaques, un patrimoine sauvegardé” walking trail highlights the yellow markings and specific waypoints near La Croupte, while the Chevauchée stage gives the starting point, spring and onward direction. If you are planning your trip around a particular route description, this distinction can help you find your way.

Classical music in churches

Classical music is also among the area’s cultural offerings: classical music concerts were held in churches in La Croupte in 2024. If attending a concert is part of your travel plans, check the dates of specific events.

Discover more destinations: Cardonville, Bazenville, Saint-Martin-Des-Entrées, Saint-Jean-De-Livet, Castilly, Saint-Arnoult, Le Breuil-En-Bessin, Bernières-Sur-Mer

For the main travel overview: Calvados.