EU citizens no; others check France visa policy. Schengen rules apply.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited in villages; basic French phrases help. Younger people and tourist staff speak some English.

What is the local currency?

Euro (€). Credit cards accepted widely, but carry cash for small shops and markets.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and of good quality.

Are there ATMs nearby?

Yes, in Caen and Bayeux. Fontaine-Henry has no ATM; bring cash.

What plug type is used?

Type E (two round pins). Voltage 230V. Bring an adapter if needed.

Is the château open year-round?

Château de Fontaine-Henry is open for guided tours from April to October; check website for exact dates.

Can I visit D-Day beaches from here?

Yes, it's a 20-30 minute drive to beaches like Juno and Gold.

Fontaine-Henry - Travel destination image

Fontaine-Henry

CityNormandy, France

Fontaine-Henry is a CITY in Normandy, France.

Nestled in the lush Calvados countryside, Fontaine-Henry is a serene Norman village that feels like a step back in time. Its crown jewel is the magnificent Château de Fontaine-Henry, a Renaissance masterpiece surrounded by manicured gardens and ancient trees. Wander the quiet lanes lined with half-timbered houses, visit the local cider farms for a taste of authentic Calvados, and enjoy the gentle pace of rural life. The nearby D-Day beaches and the historic city of Caen are just a short drive away, making it an ideal base for exploring Normandy's rich tapestry of history, gastronomy, and natural beauty. Whether you're sipping apple brandy by a fireplace or cycling through apple orchards in bloom, Fontaine-Henry offers a tranquil, authentic French escape.

Best time to visit Fontaine-Henry

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is warm and lively but busier at coastal attractions. Winter is quiet and atmospheric, ideal for cozying up in a gîte.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Fog
Temperature: 6°
Feels like: 4°
Humidity: 98%
Wind: 5 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 8-15°C, autumn colors

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Mid

Great for photography and hiking

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

CFR

Caen – Carpiquet Airport

Domestic/International

15 km away

DOL

Deauville – Saint-Gatien Airport

Domestic/International

60 km away

CDG

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

International

240 km away

Getting around

"A car is essential for exploring Fontaine-Henry and the surrounding countryside. Rental agencies are available at Caen–Carpiquet Airport and Caen train station. Cycling is popular on quiet country roads. Local buses connect to Caen and Bayeux, but service is infrequent. Taxis and ride-sharing are limited; book in advance."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at most accommodations and some cafés in nearby towns

Local SIM

Local SIM from Orange or SFR available at Caen airport for ~€10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe; minor scam risk only in larger nearby cities.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe; minor scam risk only in larger nearby cities.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Fontaine-Henry is very safe, with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in tourist-heavy areas like Caen or Bayeux, so keep valuables secure. Roads are narrow and winding; drive carefully, especially at night. Cyclists should wear helmets and use lights. In summer, watch for wasps near cider orchards. Overall, a peaceful destination with minimal risks."

Police

Ambulance

Fire

European Emergency

112

Entry and health

Health information

"France has an excellent healthcare system. EU citizens should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU visitors need comprehensive travel insurance. Pharmacies are well-stocked and can advise on minor ailments. For emergencies, dial 112. Tap water is safe to drink. Tick-borne diseases are rare but possible in wooded areas; check for ticks after hiking."

Culture

Local customs

"Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' before any conversation. Dress smart-casual; avoid overly beachy attire in villages. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. Dining hours are strict: lunch 12-2pm, dinner 7-9pm. Always say 'Merci' and 'Au revoir'."

French (official)OccitanGermanArabicPortugueseFrench

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15-25 | a three-course meal at a restaurant ~$20

Hotels

$80-150 | mid-range hotel or gîte per night

Local transport

$1.50 | local bus ticket ~$1.50

Cost notes

Cider and Calvados tastings are often free or cheap.

Timezone

Europe/Paris
Local time 03:22

More facts

Population

536

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Fontaine, Fontaine-Henry, Fonten-Anri, Fonten-Ehnri, feng tan ang li, Фонтен-Анри, Фонтен-Анрі, Фонтен-Энри, 丰坦昂里

CityHistoricRuralFamily-FriendlyCulinaryHiking