Trail de la Roche d'Oëtre

Contrary to what you might think, Normandy isn't as flat as you imagine, and the Roche d'Oëtre trail in the heart of the Suisse Normande, a small natural region of rugged rocks and deep gorges between the Orne and Calvados. Since the race takes place in October, it’ll be cold and rain could be part of the forecast, so a rain jacket and a hat are de rigueur. ☂️

The organizers will welcome you in the Norman region, in Orne at Saint-Philbert-sur-Orne. The start and finish are at the Roche d'Oëtre site, a belvedere that overlooks the hedgerows and hills. Ten distances are on offer, here’s how it breaks down: a kids’ race and a discovery trail of 5 km for beginner runners and three Nordic walks of 7 km to 17 km are organized for hikers! As for trails, the organizers offer four options ranging from 12 to 30 km including one of 17 km in nocturnal mode with start at 3 a.m.— now that will really chill you to the bone 🌙! And of course we can’t forget to introduce you to the 90 km ultra trail, which you can do solo or as a relay over the whole weekend.

You’ll truly be on a unique route because this trail takes you through private properties across classified sites of the Orne and Rouvre valleys. You’ll have the chance to observe varied nature with green spots like the Bois de la mousse (watch out for the mousse!!or the Gorges of Saint-Aubert at Putanges-le-Lac with its rocky and wooded slopes. You’ll also cross many waterways such as the Orne River with its large granite blocks anchored in the water, the Fontaine stream at Le Héron, the Rouvre River and especially “the song of the pebbles.”No, we’re not talking about the Tété title but rather a stone field laid on a carpet of greenery. Depending on the route, you’ll pass through villages like Saint-Philbert or La Forêt-Auvray. 🌳

Apart from the race, Normandy is a lovely department rich in history (the Hundred Years’ War, the D-Day landings, etc.) and you’ll feel these emotions through the local memorials and architecture. Want a few more reasons to get started? Just 40 km from the race is the village of Camembert, the birthplace of the famous cheese 🧀. If you’re more urban, head to Caenmembert. Not bad either!