Colline aux Oiseaux: A Floral Oasis Reborn

Discover Caen's floral paradise: Colline aux Oiseaux, a 17-hectare park offering themed gardens, panoramic views, and family-friendly activities.

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Colline aux Oiseaux

Rising from a history as a municipal landfill, the Colline aux Oiseaux (Hill of the Birds) has been transformed into a sprawling 17-hectare park, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and panoramic views of Caen. The park features themed gardens, a rose garden with over 15,000 roses, a miniature Normandy, and animal park.

A brief summary to Colline aux Oiseaux

Av. de l'Amiral Mountbatten, Caen, 14000, FR
+33231304838
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Local tips

Visit the rose garden in the spring for the best colors and fragrances.
Explore the miniature Normandy to see the region's landscape in a unique way.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated picnic areas.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Caen city center, take the Twisto bus line 6A, 6B, Ligne 3, or NOMAD 116 towards Hérouville Saint-Clair. Get off at the 'Colline aux Oiseaux' stop, which is directly in front of the park entrance. A single ticket costs €1.60 and is valid for one hour. Alternatively, take the tram to the 'Université' stop and walk for about 15 minutes following Avenue de l'Amiral Mountbatten.
Taxi

A taxi or ride-share from Caen city center to Colline aux Oiseaux will cost approximately €9-€11 and take about 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Direct the driver to Avenue de l'Amiral Mountbatten, 14000 Caen.
Driving

From the A13 highway, take the périphérique Nord (northern ring road) and exit at Sortie (Exit) 6 towards 'Caen Nord/Mémorial'. Follow the signs for the Colline aux Oiseaux. Free parking is available at the park. There are also 10 parking spaces reserved for people with reduced mobility.
Walking

The Colline aux Oiseaux is approximately a 52-minute walk from Caen Station. Head northwest. From the Caen Memorial, the park is a short walk away.

Discover more about Colline aux Oiseaux

The Colline aux Oiseaux is a testament to ecological renewal and imaginative urban planning. What was once a 20-meter-high heap of waste has been transformed into a sprawling 17-hectare park, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and panoramic views of Caen. The park's story began in 1923 when the city acquired land to dispose of household waste. For five decades, the site served as a dumping ground, eventually forming two significant hills. By the 1970s, with the expansion of Caen, the landfill was no longer a suitable solution. In 1973, the opening of a waste incineration plant marked the end of the landfill era, and a new vision for the site began to take shape. In 1994, the Colline aux Oiseaux was inaugurated during the International Floralies, celebrating the 50th anniversary of D-Day. The name, a nod to the site's past, recalls the countless birds that once flocked to the landfill. Today, the park attracts around 450,000 visitors annually, drawn to its diverse attractions and tranquil atmosphere. The park is designed as a mosaic of themed gardens, each offering a distinct experience. The rose garden, a highlight, boasts over 15,000 roses representing 570 varieties, spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. Visitors can wander through arches and pathways, immersing themselves in the colors and fragrances of this meticulously maintained collection. For a touch of whimsy, the park features a yew and boxwood maze, inviting visitors to lose themselves in its verdant corridors. The 'Normandie miniature' offers a unique perspective, showcasing the region's landscape on a scale of 1/1000th. Other gardens include the French city garden, the twin-city garden, and a perennial garden, each contributing to the park's rich tapestry of horticultural delights. Families with children will find plenty to keep them entertained. An inclusive playground provides a safe and engaging space for children of all abilities. The park also includes a small animal farm showcasing regional breeds.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Abbaye d'Ardenne

1.5 km

Explore a historic Norman abbey, now a center for contemporary publishing archives, with a rich and complex past.

Vestiges du mur de l'abbaye aux Hommes,

2.5 km

Discover the historic remains of the Abbaye aux Hommes' fortifications on Rue du Carel in Caen, a testament to Norman history.

Caen Tourist Office

2.7 km

Your gateway to exploring Caen and Normandy: expert advice, maps, tours, and the Caen Pass for discounts on local attractions.

Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery

4.3 km

A serene and moving tribute to the Commonwealth soldiers who fell during the Battle of Normandy, located near Caen, France.

Pegasus Bridge

10.3 km

Visit Pegasus Bridge in Normandy: a historic D-Day site, captured by British airborne troops, symbolizing courage and liberation.

Ranville War Cemetery

10.5 km

Reflect on D-Day's cost at Ranville War Cemetery, the final resting place for British and German soldiers in Normandy, France.

Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery

12.5 km

A serene and poignant memorial in Normandy, honoring the Canadian soldiers who fought and died during the Battle of Normandy.

Normandy beach race

13.1 km

Discover the exhilarating blend of history and motorsport at the iconic Normandy Beach Race in Ouistreham, a must-visit for every traveler.

Sword Beach

13.3 km

Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Sword Beach, a must-visit destination along Normandy's stunning coastline.

Plage de Ouistreham

13.9 km

Explore the stunning Plage de Ouistreham, a beautiful sandy beach in Normandy perfect for families, relaxation, and water sports enthusiasts.

Lighthouse of Ouistreham

13.9 km

Explore the iconic Lighthouse of Ouistreham, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views in Normandy, France.

Monument Signal du D-day

15.5 km

Explore the powerful legacy of bravery at the Monument Signal du D-day in Bernières-sur-Mer, a historic tribute to the D-Day landings.

Plage de Courseulles sur Mer

15.9 km

Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Plage de Courseulles sur Mer, a perfect beach destination on the Normandy coast.

Bretteville Canadian War Cenetery

16.9 km

A solemn tribute to Canadian soldiers who gave their lives during the Battle of Normandy, a place of remembrance and reflection.

Ryes British War Cemetery, Bazenville

18.9 km

A serene and historically significant war cemetery in Normandy, honoring the fallen soldiers of World War II.

Unmissable attractions to see

Jardin Britannique du Mémorial

0.4 km

Reflect on the sacrifices of British soldiers and civilians in the liberation of France at this tranquil garden within the Caen Memorial, a place dedicated to peace and remembrance.

Mémorial de Caen

0.6 km

Explore the Mémorial de Caen, a profound war museum dedicated to World War II history and the spirit of peace.

United States Armed Forces Memorial Garden

0.7 km

Explore the United States Armed Forces Memorial Garden in Caen, a serene tribute honoring the bravery of American servicemen and women amidst beautiful surroundings.

Vallée des jardins

1.4 km

Discover Caen's Vallée des Jardins: a 24/7 green escape with diverse landscapes, arboretum, picnic spots, and recreational activities, perfect for nature lovers and active explorers.

Caen Botanical Garden

1.8 km

Explore the lush landscapes and diverse flora of Caen Botanical Garden, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

St. Stephen's Church

2.2 km

Discover Caen's Église Saint-Étienne, a magnificent Norman church founded by William the Conqueror, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles with a rich history and serene atmosphere.

Ducal Palace XIV century

2.2 km

Discover the Ducal Palace in Caen, a 14th-century historical landmark showcasing Norman heritage, Gothic architecture, and contemporary art in beautifully renovated halls.

Abbaye-aux-Hommes

2.2 km

Discover the Abbaye-aux-Hommes in Caen: a historic abbey founded by William the Conqueror, showcasing stunning Norman architecture and centuries of rich heritage.

Rond Point Fontette

2.3 km

Discover Place Fontette in Caen: A historic square blending 18th-century urban design with modern city life, offering a gateway to Normandy's rich heritage and vibrant culture.

Musée d'initiation à la nature

2.4 km

Explore Normandy's natural beauty at Musée d'initiation à la nature in Caen, nestled in the historic Abbaye aux Hommes, offering engaging exhibits and interactive displays for all ages.

Église du Vieux Saint Sauveur

2.4 km

Explore the Église du Vieux Saint Sauveur, a medieval architectural gem in Caen, France, showcasing rich history and breathtaking design.

Caen Castle

2.4 km

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Caen Castle, a must-visit landmark in Normandy, France.

Musée de Normandie

2.5 km

Explore the fascinating history of Normandy at the Musée de Normandie, a captivating museum set in a historic château in Caen.

Old St. Stephen's Church

2.5 km

Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Old St. Stephen's Church in Caen, a captivating landmark in the heart of Normandy.

Porte des Champs

2.5 km

Explore the Porte des Champs, a historic gateway in Caen Castle, offering a journey through centuries of Norman and French history with stunning city views and architectural marvels.

Discover Balthazar in Caen: A vibrant tapas bar offering exquisite small plates and crafted cocktails for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Explore the enchanting world of hats at 'Elle n'en fée qu'à sa tête' in Caen, where unique styles meet French elegance.

Discover the lively ambiance of La Garsouille, a top bar in Caen offering a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse drink selection for an unforgettable night out.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

L' Écume Des Nuits - Caen

2.4 km

Discover the dynamic nightlife of Caen at L' Écume Des Nuits, a premier night club and bar offering unforgettable experiences and late-night fun.

El Che Guevara BAR - Caen

2.5 km

Discover Caen's vibrant nightlife at El Che Guevara BAR, where cocktails, music, and dancing create an unforgettable experience.

Le FARNIENTE - Caen

2.6 km

Discover the lively nightlife at Le FARNIENTE, a vibrant night club and bar in Caen, offering music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.

Olly's Caen

2.9 km

Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Olly's Caen, a top night club in Caen, where unforgettable moments and great music await.

QG - Caen

3.0 km

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Caen at QG, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await you.

Le 32

3.2 km

Experience the heartbeat of Caen's nightlife at Le 32, a vibrant night club and bar that promises unforgettable evenings of music and dance.

Nuit Blanche

3.2 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Caen at Nuit Blanche, a vibrant night club offering a mix of music and dance in a lively atmosphere.

What’s

3.3 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Caen at What’s, the ultimate destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.

No Limit Night Club - Caen

3.4 km

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at No Limit Night Club in Caen - where music, dance, and fun create unforgettable memories.

Les marches des Caen Runners

3.9 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Les Marches des Caen Runners, a vibrant night club in Caen, France, perfect for dancing and socializing.

Monte Cristo - Thue et Mue

10.1 km

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Monte Cristo in Thue et Mue - a disco club that promises unforgettable nights filled with dance, drinks, and fun.

Le Cercle

14.1 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Cercle in Ouistreham, where music, dance, and excitement await every night.

Havana Club

16.9 km

Dive into the lively nightlife at Havana Club, where music, dance, and vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening in Merville-Franceville-Plage.

Le Club Deauville

38.5 km

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Deauville at Le Club Deauville, where music and dance come alive until dawn.

The Point Bar

38.6 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Point Bar in Deauville, where dance, drinks, and unforgettable memories await.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Colline aux Oiseaux: A Floral Oasis Reborn

A brief summary to Colline aux Oiseaux

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Taxi

Driving

Walking

Unlock the Best of Colline aux Oiseaux

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Colline aux Oiseaux

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Abbaye d'Ardenne

Vestiges du mur de l'abbaye aux Hommes,

Caen Tourist Office

Cambes-en-Plaine War Cemetery

Pegasus Bridge

Ranville War Cemetery

Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery

Normandy beach race

Sword Beach

Plage de Ouistreham

Lighthouse of Ouistreham

Monument Signal du D-day

Plage de Courseulles sur Mer

Bretteville Canadian War Cenetery

Ryes British War Cemetery, Bazenville

Unmissable attractions to see

Jardin Britannique du Mémorial

Mémorial de Caen

United States Armed Forces Memorial Garden

Vallée des jardins

Caen Botanical Garden

St. Stephen's Church

Ducal Palace XIV century

Abbaye-aux-Hommes

Rond Point Fontette

Musée d'initiation à la nature

Église du Vieux Saint Sauveur

Caen Castle

Musée de Normandie

Old St. Stephen's Church

Porte des Champs

Essential places to dine

Le Sans Gêne

Au Double Blanc

Ô GLOBE

Restaurant MAGMA

Ju'ste Chez Moi

Le Bistrot du Palais

Les Gens Heureux

Villa Eugène

Monsieur Louis

La Casinière

A Contre Sens

Crêperie la Galettoire

Le Dauphin

L'Aromate

Balthazar

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Centrakor Saint Contest

Boutique zéro déchet - Alternativi

Marcelle Room

Atelier Boutic 10 ,CARTAGAG, serge Vandecasteele

L’Audacieux

BASALT MARKET

Lady C loveshop sexshop

Centre commercial Côte de Nacre

Romy Caen

26 Rue Froide

Midi à 14 Heures

Shakti

ess9nce

Deux Heures Seize - Concept store

Elle n'en fée qu'à sa tête

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

L'Antirouille

Le Baroudeur