Mont Castre gives a trip to Lithaire a clear focal point: rocks, panoramic views, a pond and traces of history come together with several ways to explore the surrounding area on foot. The rocks at Vieux Château lie at the western end of Mont Castre and reach a height of more than 120 metres. Mont Castre also offers panoramic views and an orientation board. The pond was created when a former quarry was converted into a pond. Together, the elevation, views and transformation from quarry to body of water give the landscape a distinctive character. The various hiking routes differ in length, time required and difficulty rating.

History across several periods

Neolithic, Gallo-Roman and medieval remains have been preserved at Mont Castre. Château de Lithaire represents another historical landmark: under William the Conqueror, it was the centre of a large lordship; it was dismantled in the early 13th century. A final battle took place at Mont Castre from 3 to 11 July 1944, in which the US 90th Division lost 5,000 men. The historical arc thus stretches from the early periods represented by the preserved remains to a precisely dated event in the 20th century. The history of the château and the 1944 battle add specific landmarks to this long historical perspective.

Hikes with different time requirements

The “Les vieilles pierres du mont Castre” route is rated easy, is 6.9 kilometres long and is listed as taking 2 hours and 15 minutes. It offers a 180-degree view of the surrounding area and follows former railway lines and greenways. It also follows the old route along which small wagons transported the stone to Lithaire station; it was destined for Paris and its major construction projects. As well as views and landscapes, traces of former transport routes are part of this hike.

There is also a 3-kilometre circular trail at Mont Castre, marked with information boards, where you can explore the local heritage. Another discovery trail starts at the pond in Lithaire. This moderately difficult hike is 1.9 kilometres long and takes about an hour. By comparison, the discovery trail is considerably shorter than “Les vieilles pierres” but is rated more challenging. Length, time required and difficulty rating therefore provide a more informative picture than distance alone: a shorter route is not automatically easier. As tourist route information may change in the future, check the details before setting out.

Getting there and seasonal activities

Mont Castre is signposted from the D903 between La Haye-du-Puits and Carentan. It is also close to a greenway and easily accessible by bicycle. Mont Castre has a playground, a picnic area, parking and toilets. Pedal boats and a snack bar are available seasonally. When weighing up activities for your stay, the different time estimates for the hiking routes provide useful guidance; for pedal boats and the snack bar, bear the season in mind.

Discover more destinations: Quettreville-Sur-Sienne, Pirou, Kairon Plage, Beauficel, Le Mesnil-Amey, Saint-Symphorien-Des-Monts, La Baleine, Heussé

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