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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
France
Normandy
Caen
Falaise

In the Footsteps of William the Conqueror Trail

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
France
Normandy
Caen
Falaise

In the Footsteps of William the Conqueror Trail

Easy

4.1

(7)

31

hikers

In the Footsteps of William the Conqueror Trail

01:54

7.00km

100m

Hiking

This easy 4.4-mile loop hike around Falaise takes you through historic townscapes and rural views, passing William the Conqueror's Castle.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

433 m

William the Conqueror's Castle

Highlight • Castle

Absolutely recommended! Very well done - the ruins were reconstructed by modern concrete buildings - so that you have a good impression of the building at that time - but …

Translated by Google •

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2

1.15 km

Arlette's Fountain

Highlight • Historical Site

It is here, on this site, that it is said that a young Duke Robert returning from hunting saw a young peasant girl named Arlette and immediately fell in love …

Translated by Google •

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3

2.91 km

Porte des Cordeliers

Highlight • Monument

The Porte des Cordeliers is a medieval gate and one of the remains of the fortified enclosure which surrounded the town of Falaise, birthplace of William the Conqueror. The gate …

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4

4.40 km

Château de La Fresnaye

Highlight • Castle

The house was built around 1750. At that time, a beautiful English park with gardens was created. It no longer exists today, but the green space that one crosses to …

Translated by Google •

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B

7.00 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.49 km

1.89 km

1.08 km

816 m

672 m

Surfaces

3.12 km

1.29 km

1.23 km

755 m

478 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (160 m)

Lowest point (110 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Friday 29 May

29°C

14°C

38 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the 'In the footsteps of Guillaume le Conquérant — loop around Falaise' trail is classified as an easy hike. It's considered suitable for all skill levels and fitness levels, with easily accessible paths. It's a great option for families looking for an engaging historical walk.

What is the terrain like on the loop around Falaise?

The trail offers a diverse landscape, combining urban, historic, and rural elements. You'll walk through townscapes, experience countryside scenery, and enjoy views from ramparts. The paths are generally easily accessible.

Where can I park for the 'In the footsteps of Guillaume le Conquérant' trail?

The trail is a loop around Falaise, so parking can typically be found within the town. Specific parking areas are not detailed in the provided sources, but as it's an urban-integrated route, public parking facilities in Falaise would be the most likely option.

Can I reach the trailhead using public transport?

The trail is located in Falaise, which is accessible by public transport. While specific bus or train connections directly to the trailhead are not provided, general public transport options to Falaise would allow access to the starting point of this loop.

What historical sites and landmarks will I see along the way?

This route is rich in history. You'll encounter the formidable William the Conqueror's Castle, his birthplace, and other significant sites like Arlette's Fountain, the Porte des Cordeliers, and the Château de La Fresnaye. The churches of St. Gervais and La Trinité are also notable.

Are there any notable viewpoints on the trail?

Yes, the trail offers "somptueux points de vue" (sumptuous viewpoints) from the ramparts and surrounding promontories, providing impressive vistas of Falaise and the surrounding area.

Is the 'In the footsteps of Guillaume le Conquérant' trail dog-friendly?

The provided information does not explicitly state whether dogs are allowed or specific leash rules. Given its mix of urban, historical, and rural sections, it's advisable to check local regulations for Falaise regarding dogs in public spaces and historical sites before your visit.

Do I need any permits or pay an entrance fee to hike this trail?

There is no information indicating that permits or entrance fees are required to hike this specific trail. Access to the general route appears to be free, though individual attractions like William the Conqueror's Castle may have their own admission fees.

What is the best time of year to hike this route?

The trail can be enjoyed across various seasons due to its diverse terrain. However, to best appreciate the 'somptueux points de vue' and comfortable walking conditions, spring and autumn typically offer pleasant weather. Summer is also suitable, but can be warmer.

Are there places to eat or drink near the trail?

As the trail has a 'citadine' (urban) aspect and passes through the town of Falaise, you can expect to find various cafes, restaurants, and pubs within easy reach, especially near the historical center.

What kind of natural scenery and wildlife can I expect?

Beyond the historical and urban elements, the route features 'champêtre' (rural) scenery. It also has an ornithological aspect, suggesting opportunities for birdwatching along certain sections of the route.

Does this trail connect with other hiking routes?

Yes, the route overlaps significantly with several other official trails. It covers 100% of the 'Sur les Pas de Guillaume le Conquérant' trail, 77% of the 'Circuit des Trois Châteaux', and 75% of the 'Circuit des Remparts de Falaise variante nature', among others.

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Sentier des Gorges de la Roche d'Oëtre — loop in the sensitive natural area of l'Orne

02:19h

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