Why not discover the manor houses of Normandy? These architectural gems bear witness to the region’s historic prosperity. Their half-timbering, brickwork, turrets and pitched roofs are emblematic of Normandy’s heritage identity.
Here’s our selection of Normandy’s most beautiful manor houses, with helpful tips in pictures!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
The most beautiful manor houses in Normandy: tips + map
We explored the many areas of Normandy. There are, of course, the castles, and you’ll find our favorites in the article we’ve devoted to them. Then there are the manor houses. The distinction is sometimes very blurred. However, it is generally accepted that castles were designed as defensive fortresses for the upper nobility. Manor houses, on the other hand, served as residences for lesser nobility and wealthy landowners. They combined residential and agricultural functions.
These manor houses were mainly built between the 15th and 17th centuries, and feature characteristic architecture: half-timbering or limestone for the main dwelling, stair towers, sloping roofs and elaborate dormers. They also feature farm outbuildings, making them typical of Normandy’s rural landscape. It’s true that some of them look a lot like castles.
Normandy manor houses – our top 3
1. Manoir d’Ango (Varengeville-sur-Mer)
Why visit? Our review
Manoir d’Ango is a Renaissance masterpiece. Italian influence meets Norman soul. We particularly enjoyed the courtyard, with its famous dovecote featuring a bulbous roof and polychrome brick and flint motifs. We lingered under the richly decorated arches of the loggia, thinking of the surrealist artists who, like us, had been seduced by this place: André Breton, Louis Aragon, Jacques Prévert, Robert Desnos, Yves Tanguy, Georges Braque…
Useful tips
- In the commune of Varengeville-sur-Mer, west of Dieppe
- Full adult price: €6
- Open from 10am to 12:30pm and 2pm to 6pm, daily from May to September, weekends only in April and October.
- Closed from November to April.
- Link to the official website here.
WHERE TO STAY IN Normandy
We particularly appreciate staying in Normandy:
- Bayeux – our hotels selection
- Honfleur – our hotel selection
For more ideas, take a look at our article on the best places to stay in Normandy.
And if you already have an idea, take a look at our selections:
2. Manoir de Coupesarte (Mézidon)
Why visit? Our review
The authentic charm of the Manoir de Coupesarte really impressed us. The building dates from the 15th century and is truly thearchetypal Norman manor house, or at least the idea of one. Timber-framed architecture is particularly characteristic here. Only the exteriors can be visited, but the park and moat are enough to give you a taste of the peaceful atmosphere. A moment of timeless strolling.
Useful tips
- In the heart of the Auge Valley
- Outdoors only, accessible all year round
- Pets allowed
- Link to the official website here.
3. Manoir de la Saucerie (Domfront-en-Poiraie)
Why visit? Our review
During our visit to the Manoir de la Saucerie, we were fascinated by its monumental door with its singular architecture. Its astonishing chestnut-wood roofs are reminiscent of the hulls of upturned ships. The silhouette of this gate, enhanced by corbelledwatchtowers on the courtyard side, is incredibly picturesque. This small 15th and 16th century manor house was a real discovery for us, and in itself symbolizes the richness andoriginality of Normandy’s heritage.
Useful tips
- On the commune of La Haute-Chapelle, in the Orne department
- Visits are possible in summer, otherwise you can enjoy the outdoors.
- For more information, visit the Domfront Tourist Office website here.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Normandy manor houses – 6 best visits
4. Manoir de Courboyer (Perche-en-Nocé)
Why visit? Our review
The Manoir de Courboyer houses the Maison du Parc naturel régional du Perche. This 15th-century landmark combines Renaissance and flamboyant Gothic styles. We were able to take advantage of its natural setting, with orchards, meadows and wooded paths. The venue features immersive exhibitions on local heritage. You’ll also find the Cave Coopérative de Aging du Calvados du Perche, with its 12,000 liters of the precious beverage.
Useful tips
- In Nocé, in the Parc naturel régional du Perche
- Game books for children
- Full adult price: €3
- The manor is open all year round, with opening times varying according to the season.
- Visit the official website here.
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
DREAM TRIP TO Normandy
All the information you need for your trip:
- 8 maps that make planning easier
- 160+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- 300+ photos to help you choose
5. Manoir des Évêques (Deauville)
Why visit? Our review
We fell under the spell of the Manoir des Évêques de Canapville. The harmony between the 12th-century stone tower and the 15th-century half-timbered buildings is truly impressive. With its gardens, the site exudes the authenticity of the past. Pays d’Auge. You’re definitely in Normandy! Discover the impressive cider press and the furnished interiors, and imagine what life was like here in days gone by.
Useful tips
- In Canapville, less than 10km south of Deauville
- Tour duration: about 45min
- Full adult price: €10
- The manor house is privately owned and is open from July 1 to 15 and September 1 to 25, from 2 to 8 pm, with the last visit at 6.30 pm. Closed on Tuesdays.
- Link to the official website here.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities in Normandy
- Helicopter flight over the cliffs of the Côte d’Albâtre
- Book your time to visit Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
- Take a microlight flight over Mont-Saint-Michel
- Climb the Via Ferrata in Switzerland Normandy
6. Manoir de la Chaslerie (Domfront-en-Poiraie)
Why visit? Our review
To visit the Manoir de la Chaslerie is to explore a unique architectural ensemble nestled in the Domfront bocage, between meadows and groves. We only visited it from the outside (it’s being restored), but we were able to appreciate the diversity of the buildings and the roughness of the materials. On either side of the east facade, note the long shooting gallery with its numerous loopholes. To the south, it joins the chapel. It bears witness to the manor’s defensive past. In summer, classical music concerts are held in the grand salon.
Useful tips
- On the commune of La Haute-Chapelle, in the Orne department
- Free outdoor tour
- Indoor tour, full adult price: €3
- Link to the official website here.
7. Manoir de la Guyardière (Domfront-en-Poiraie)
Why visit? Our review
Le Manoir de La Guyardière combines elegance and history. As we passed through the 15th-century gateway with its peppered turrets, we were immediately transported to another time. But it was on our tour of the estate that we really came to appreciate the place, especially the logis, with its high windows reflected majestically in the surrounding pond.
Useful tips
- On the commune of La Haute-Chapelle, in the Orne department
- Free outdoor tour
- Link to the official website here.
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8 & 9. Vigneron and Roncheville manors (Honfleur)
Why visit? Our review
As we made our way through the streets of Honfleur, we discovered two hidden manor houses. Don’t miss the Manoir de Roncheville, located in Cour de Roncheville, between Rue des Petites-Boucheries and Place Arthur-Boudin. A little further on, you’ll have to enter the town’s Museum of Ethnography to discover, in its courtyard, the Manoir Vigneron, a 16th-century timber-framed house. It was dismantled in Lisieux and reassembled here in the early 20th century.
Useful tips
- In Old Honfleur
- The Manoir de Roncheville is not open to the public, but you can still admire the exterior architecture.
- To see the Manoir Vigneron, you’ll need to visit the Musée d’Ethnographie.
- Open all year round
- Full adult price: €4
- Link to the official museum website here.
10. Beuvron-en-Auge manor house
Why visit? Our review
If you’re passing through Beuvron-en-Auge, don’t miss the 15th-century manor house at the heart of one of France’s most beautiful villages. The central village square is surrounded by old half-timbered houses. It’s closed off at its southern end by this splendid manor house, which we wanted to photograph from every angle. It’s not open to the public, but well worth a visit. The sculpted details on its façade are very intriguing.
Two other manor houses can be seen in the vicinity:
- Le Manoir du Lieu Hocquart
- Le Manoir de la Hogue.
Useful tips
- In the center of the village of Beuvron-en Auge
- Not open to the public
- Link to the official website of the Mairie de Beuvron-en-Auge here.
Norman manor houses where to sleep and eat
For the full experience, it’s best to spend some real time in a Normandy manor house. We’ve come up with a shortlist of places where you can spend a night (or more) and/or enjoy a meal.
11. Manoir de La Roche Torin (Mont Saint-Michel)
Why visit? Our review
As well as sleeping in an authentic manor house whose chapel is said to still house the relics of Saint-Valentine (lovers beware), it was the view over the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel that won us over. The hotel has around 15 tastefully decorated rooms and a restaurant where you can sample salt-meadow lamb, renowned for the tenderness and salty taste of its flesh.
Useful tips
- In the commune of Courtils, a 15-minute drive from Mont Saint-Michel
- 3-star hotel
- Some rooms feature a private terrace and/or fireplace.
- Check prices, photos and availability, and… book
12. Manoir des Impressionnistes (Honfleur)
Why visit? Our review
The wow factor is guaranteed for this superb family home by the sea, which left us speechless. This sublime 18th-century timber-framed building was the Ferme du Butin in the 16th century. In addition to its history, it’s its location at the foot of the Côte de Grâce and its breathtaking views over the Seine Estuary that attract visitors. Not to mention the standing of this 5-star hotel and its gourmet restaurant.
Useful tips
- In Honfleur, above Plage du Butin
- 5-star hotel
- The rooms have retained their authentic look, with moldings and parquet flooring.
- Restaurant La Table des Impressionnistes, gourmet, Michelin-starred
- See prices, photos and availability, and… book
13. Manoirs des Portes de Deauville
Why visit? Our review
Here we found the perfect opportunity to sleep in an authentic Norman manor house dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, listed as a historic monument, just a stone’s throw from Deauville. Formerly the Manoir du Prétot, it is said to have been the vacation home of the famous French playwright Pierre Corneille. The man had great taste! This wooded estate is absolutely splendid, with the main manor house and 9 delightful cottages scattered around the grounds.
Useful tips
- About 7km before entering Deauville
- 4 star hotel
- 25 rooms and suites with modern, elegant and discreet decor
- Pool and spa
- Check prices, photos and availability and… make a reservation.
14. Manoir Sainte Victoire (Bayeux)
Why visit? Our review
The Manoir Sainte Victoire’s ideal location for visiting Bayeux is what first caught our attention. But that was without taking into account the picturesque charm of this magnificent 15th-century townhouse. As soon as you pass through the tall, elegant gates, you’re taken by themagical atmosphere of the place: cobbled courtyard and flower-filled garden, stone staircases and wood panelling… A moment out of time.
Useful tips
- In the historic heart of Bayeux
- Charming guest rooms
- Superb pies at the large communal breakfast table
- See prices, photos and availability, and… make a reservation.
15. Manoir Hastings (Bénouville)
Why visit? Our review
If you’d like to experience the old walls but prefer a more modern setting, we recommend staying at Hastings Manor. While the white stone buildings date back to the 17th century, the decor is more contemporary, with landscape wallpaper and 21st-century art. Of particular note is the establishment’s strategic location, halfway between Caen and Ouistreham, perfect for the first stage of a visit to the D-Day landing beaches.
Useful tips
- Between Caen and Ouistreham
- 4-star equivalent
- Note that chef Gilles Poudras no longer officiates here, but that the new owners are offering a catering service reserved for hotel guests, in the evenings only.
- Check prices, photos and availability and… make a reservation.
Other manor houses in Normandy
Normandy is full of manor houses, and we weren’t able to visit them all. Here are a few more that are well worth a visit:
- Manoir d’Auffay (Oherville): a majestic Renaissance manor house with a mosaic facade of red brick and white stone. Find out more here.
- Manoir du Catel (Ecretteville): known as the oldest fortified house in Normandy, it is more than just a monument. An architect of historic monuments called it a “document”. Find out more here.
- Manoir de Pierre Corneille (Petit-Couronne) or Maison des Champs, is a traditional Norman timber-framed building. Owned by the family of the famous 17th-century French author, it now houses the Musée Pierre Corneille. Find out more here.
- Manoir de Rétival (Rives en Seine): on the remains of a Templar house, this elegant neo-Renaissance building houses the Michelin-starred restaurant of Francophile German chef David Goerne. You can also sleep here. Find out more here.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy
Inspiration destinations
- Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
- Our weekend ideas: best-of, romantic, unusual, seaside, luxury, family
- 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
- The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy
Best of
Practice
- Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
- See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport, Orly airport, Beauvais airport, Caen, Rouen, Bayeux…
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
