It’s a big cheese. Some say it’s the king of cheeses. It is, of course, Camembert. But did you know it originated here – in the village of the same name?
The story goes that a priest, on the run from the French Revolution, gave local woman Marie Harel a secret formula for conserving cheese in return for shelter. Heh presto, Camembert!
Today, locals list its health-giving qualities - it used to be sold in pharmacies - and joke that you can follow your nose around Orne’s Camembert trail. And so you can.
Also in Orne’s abundant, natural larder: black pudding from Mortagne (said to be the original), tripe from La Ferté-Macé, Bagnoles macaroons and brioche from Moulins-la-Marche.
From Orne’s lush orchards comes vintage calvados, cool cider, pommeau - and poiré, a refreshing, sparkling pear cider that is Orne’s speciality, signature drink.
If tasting isn’t enough, then have a hand in creating something delicious. Orne’s gastronauts are eager to share their knowledge of Norman cuisine, and offer some modern twists on some old culinary themes.
