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Things to do around Rouen: visits and activities in Normandy

Looking for things to do around Rouen during a weekend, a holiday or a family stay? From Les Gîtes de Flaubert, explore a region rich in heritage, countryside, characterful villages and leisure activities.

From Lyons-la-Forêt to Giverny, with castles, abbeys, gardens, wildlife parks and family attractions along the way, this selection will help you make the most of your stay in Normandy.

Characterful villages near Rouen

1. Ry

Ry is a charming Norman village to explore during your stay. Its heritage and atmosphere make it an enjoyable stop near Les Gîtes de Flaubert.

2. Lyons-la-Forêt

Listed among France’s most beautiful villages, Lyons-la-Forêt is known for its half-timbered houses, market hall, narrow streets and surrounding forest. Visit for a stroll, lunch or a countryside outing.

Castles and historic sites around Rouen

3. Château de Vascœuil

Near Les Gîtes de Flaubert, Château de Vascœuil brings together historic architecture, gardens and art exhibitions. It is an interesting outing for anyone who enjoys culture and history.

4. Château de Martainville

Discover Norman history and traditions through the castle’s architecture and collections.

5. Fontaine-Guérard Abbey

Set in the Andelle Valley, the abbey combines evocative ruins, natural surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere.

6. Jumièges Abbey

One of Normandy’s most striking historic sites, Jumièges offers monumental ruins for visitors interested in history and architecture.

7. Rouen Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of Rouen’s landmark monuments and a natural stop during a day exploring the historic centre.

8. Gros-Horloge

In the heart of Rouen, this famous astronomical clock is a symbol of the city and a way to discover its medieval heritage.

9. Historial Jeanne d’Arc

The Joan of Arc history museum offers an immersive visit exploring her story and her connection with Rouen.

Gardens and nature in Normandy

10. Le Jardin Plume

A rewarding visit for anyone interested in contemporary gardens, planting and carefully designed landscapes.

11. Claude Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny

Monet’s house and gardens are among Normandy’s best-known attractions. Discover the flower gardens, water-lily pond and surroundings associated with the painter.

12. Bois-Guilbert sculpture garden

The Jardin des Sculptures de Bois-Guilbert combines art, nature and walking in an unusual setting.

Family activities around Rouen

13. Biotropica

Near Léry-Poses, Biotropica is an option for families with children. Its zoological greenhouse introduces visitors to animal species in a tropical environment.

14. Parc de Clères

Combining a wildlife park, gardens and heritage, Clères makes a pleasant family outing in green surroundings.

15. Parc Canadien

A different kind of outing focused on nature and animals, suitable to consider during a family or group weekend.

16. Parc du Bocasse

A choice for families looking for amusement rides and activities for children.

17. Léry-Poses leisure area

Enjoy outdoor activities, natural spaces and leisure by the water.

Before setting out, check opening dates, ticket arrangements and group-booking requirements directly with each attraction. Activities may depend on the season and weather.

Local food and drink in Normandy

A stay near Rouen is also an opportunity to discover local breweries, Neufchâtel cheese, cider makers, distilleries and regional farm produce.

18. Brasserie Insulaire

Discover local craft production at Brasserie Insulaire. Contact the brewery before planning a group visit.

19. Neufchâtel cheese producers

Neufchâtel is one of Normandy’s characteristic cheeses. Local producers offer opportunities to discover it in the region where it is made.

20. Cider makers and distilleries

Cider, pommeau and calvados are Norman specialities. A visit to a cider maker or distillery can complement your stay; confirm visiting arrangements in advance.

Visiting Rouen as a group

For a family weekend, reunion, birthday or holiday with friends, Les Gîtes de Flaubert offer several accommodation combinations. The cottages are in Morville-le-Héron, in the Andelle Valley, around 25 minutes from Rouen, depending on traffic and your destination.

La Cour de Flaubert: sleeps up to 25

La Charretterie and Le Gustave share a courtyard and provide 8 bedrooms for up to 25 guests. From €1,490 for two nights, including bed linen, towels and end-of-stay cleaning.

Explore La Cour de Flaubert for 25 guests

Les Dépendances: sleeps up to 24

Le Flaubert, Le Bovary and Emma provide 9 bedrooms for up to 24 guests, with separate living spaces. From €1,590 for two nights, including bed linen, towels and end-of-stay cleaning. The option without Emma sleeps 20 in 8 bedrooms.

Explore Les Dépendances

A base for exploring Normandy together

Across five cottages, the estate sleeps up to 49 guests in 17 bedrooms. It welcomes families, friends, associations and business groups who want to stay together while exploring the region. Sleeping capacity does not automatically mean a single dining or reception room for 49; discuss your arrangements with Aurélia and Christophe.

Read our guide to group stays for 20 to 49 guests

Frequently asked questions

Which accommodation should we choose for 20, 24, 25 or 49 guests?

Les Dépendances combine Le Bovary and Le Flaubert for 20 guests, or add Emma for 24. La Cour combines La Charretterie and Le Gustave for 25. All five cottages together sleep 49. The private two-person hot tub is in Emma only.

How should we plan outings for a group birthday or family reunion?

Choose outings to suit the ages of your guests, the weather and opening hours. Check group conditions and any advance-booking requirements with each venue. Our birthday and family reunion guide helps you plan accommodation and shared time.

Compare La Cour and Les Dépendances · Local partners

Explore nearby activities

Plan your stay

Tell us your dates, group size and preferred room arrangements so we can help you choose suitable accommodation.

Contact Aurélia and Christophe · Check availability and book direct

Telephone: 0033 6 61 24 20 20