Champ-Du-Boult can be explored through two topics closely connected with the area: traces of former paper mills and granite, and hiking opportunities. When planning, it is worth noting the difference between a route with a specified distance and walking time and an annual themed hike whose route changes each year. There is also an activity programme for children aged 0 to 3, which requires adult supervision.

Granite and Former Paper Mills

At Les Ritours in Champ-Du-Boult, two of the five former paper mills still remain. The industrial granite remains include grinding troughs, water pipes and drainage channels. These relics point to different parts of a mill site: the troughs represent grinding, while the pipes and channels carried and drained water. The number of surviving mills is thus complemented by concrete examples of the forms and materials associated with the area.

The Route du Granit, also known as “La pierre percée,” is an approximately 50-kilometre tourist route through the bocage countryside that passes through Champ-Du-Boult. The area is known for its granite Ritours and three-part troughs, which belong to a former paper mill.

Hikes with Different Themes

The Vallée de la Dathée route covers 14.2 kilometres, is rated easy, takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes, and has an elevation gain of 278 metres. It starts at the church car park in Champ-Du-Boult and passes through sunken lanes, pastures and a landscape dotted with granite boulders. The distance, approximate walking time and elevation gain provide several concrete points of reference for planning your time; the landscape features add character to the route beyond the figures.

The “La route du papier” hike follows a different format: it has been held every June since 2004, while the routes change each year and remain connected with the bocage countryside. The hike commemorates the mills and the many papermakers of the Virène and Dathée valleys. Pack donkeys always accompany participants, recalling the animals used by rag collectors. Check the date of the June hike for the year of your visit.

Wet Heathland and Activities for Young Children

The wet heathland in the Champ-Du-Boult area also extends into Gathemo and Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie. The rivers Sienne and Dathée rise in Champ-Du-Boult. Together with the surviving bocage and high rainfall, this encourages the formation of wet heathland. Alongside granite and mill remains, waterways and the landscape itself are therefore among the defining features of the area.

La Ferme des Enfants runs a play and early learning area in the former school building in the village centre. Activities include art workshops, “bébés lecteurs” and sessions where children aged 0 to 3 can explore different materials. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Check the schedule before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Hérouville-Saint-Clair, Commes, Audrieu, Courseulles-Sur-Mer, Fourches, Clarbec, Le Tronquay, Courtonne-La-Meurdrac.

For the broader travel overview: Calvados.