Discover or re-discover the Gîtes de France®
Our story
Gîtes de France® were founded in the 1950s by farmers and elected representatives who wanted to rehabilitate their old buildings, which were almost left in disrepair due to the agricultural recession, by developing holiday accommodation on their land and avoid rural depopulation. It was a noble and pioneering cause that gave birth to sustainable and collaborative tourism in France. Six decades later, Gîtes de France® have become the French and European leader in homestay hospitality without compromising its original values.
The first certified self-catering accommodation was created in the Alps in 1951, opened by Senator Émile Aubert. Nowadays, the Gîtes de France have become the European leader in rural holiday accommodation with more than 60,000 properties, 47,000 owners and a global turnover of 157.6 million euros.
The Gîtes de France Calvados organisation
Fifth department of the Gîtes de France network, the Gîtes de France Calvados comprise over 1,400 properties and about one thousand owners for a total of 8,574 beds. The Gîtes de France Calvados organisation also has a team of 13 local experts who aim to welcome and satisfy customers as well as owners that are members of the network.
Our Values
Our holiday accommodation
The ideal holiday home to spend time with your family or friends in summer, autumn, winter or spring! Self-catering holiday cottages are independent houses rented out for a week (commonly from Saturday to Saturday), as well as a weekend or a short stay depending on the time of year.
Each holiday cottage is comfortably equipped so you can make the most of the charm of a house containing living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms and a kitchen. The surrounding environment, in the countryside or by the sea, is of quality and favours peace and quiet.
Owners offer a friendly welcome based on conviviality and take time to tell guests about the local area.
You will find in Calvados self-catering holiday cottages that can sleep from 2 to 14 people. Some owners have several holiday homes on their property or semi-detached cottages that can accommodate several families looking for place to stay together.
Bed & Breakfast 'Sleep in our house, make yourself at home'
For one or several nights, you will be welcomed as friends to the owners' home who have converted it into B&Bs.
A B&B is a small establishment consisting in one or more bedrooms also known as guest house.
Breakfast is included in the price for the night and will give you the opportunity to try different local specialities. Depending on the destination and your host's inspiration, you will enjoy homemade jams, fresh country-style bread as well as croissants and pain au chocolat or homemade pastries and regional specialities. Breakfast is an ideal moment to talk with your host and get a great start to your day.
The table d'hôtes meal, offered by some hosts, will allow you to enjoy a quality family meal.
City Break®, 'a high-quality pied-à-terre for city stays’
City Break, the quality of the Gîtes de France brand in towns and cities. To visit our towns, we offer holiday accommodation in houses or apartments and B&Bs that have all the quality and expertise of the Gîtes de France®. In Caen, Bayeux, Honfleur, Deauville, Trouville or Cabourg, rent a Gîtes de France City Break for a relaxing stay.
Make the most of these rentals for your holidays or business trips. Enjoy comfortable accommodation with easy access to public transport, shops and attractions.
High level of comfort and warm, personalized welcome guaranteed, advice on museums, shopping areas and good restaurants or on how to make the most of the town on foot. If you choose an apartment or house, you will be completely independent and will be able to book a one night stay or a multiple night stay. In B&Bs, bookings are usually made for one night with breakfast included in the price.
For a memorable and unique experience, explore the range of unusual accommodations by Gîtes de France. Choose from treehouses, yurts, gypsy caravans, or even converted wine barrels, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy a sense of adventure. Each unusual accommodation blends comfort with novelty, often located in serene settings that allow you to unwind and recharge. These distinctive stays provide a charming and magical experience, perfect for a romantic getaway or a family adventure. Wherever you choose, you can be sure of the high quality and friendly service guaranteed by Gîtes de France.
For groups of over 15 people, Gîtes de France offers group gîtes — spacious accommodations perfect for family reunions, friend gatherings, retreats, or corporate events. These group gîtes are specially designed to host large numbers, with multiple bedrooms, ample shared spaces, fully equipped kitchens, and often additional amenities such as game rooms, outdoor areas, or meeting rooms. The generous layout allows everyone to enjoy privacy while also coming together in common areas. Located in beautiful, often secluded areas, our group gîtes ensure an enjoyable and memorable stay for all.
The Gîtes de France ‘ears of corn’ classification
Depending on their environment, their level of comfort and the services they offer, Gîtes de France-labelled accommodation is classified as ears of corn. This ears of corn classification gives customers the guarantee of a quality stay, based on very specific classification standards.
The Gîtes de France quality label guarantees precise standards of comfort (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 ears of corn) and compliance with a national charter.
All Gîtes de France gîtes and guest houses are classified according to their environment, level of comfort and services, and reclassified at least once every 5 years. They are usually reviewed in the event of a dispute.
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1 ear of corn : Simple comfort
- 2 ears of corn : Standart comfort
- 3 ears of corn : Good comfort
- 4 ears of corn : High comfort
- 5 ears of corn : Exceptional comfort
Gîtes de France® commitments
Our Holiday Rentals
Our Commitment : Sustainable Tourism for the Land, Travelers, and the Planet
Since 1951, Gîtes de France has promoted authentic tourism that fosters connection and sharing, while preserving the unique identity of our rural regions. We offer stays that combine comfort with environmental responsibility, through eco-friendly accommodations and initiatives that support biodiversity and sustainable transport.
Guaranteed Quality for Peaceful Stays
All Gîtes de France accommodations are inspected before being listed, ensuring comfort standards rated by “ears of corn” Book with confidence and enjoy an authentic, rejuvenating experience in every season.
Support for Local Economies and Heritage Conservation
By staying with Gîtes de France, you contribute to the vitality of rural communities and support local artisans, helping to sustain regions beyond the major cities. We remain true to our values of solidarity and sharing, inviting you to discover the cultural and historical richness of Normandy, even in its most preserved corners.
Why Choose Gîtes de France® Calvados ?
By choosing Gîtes de France® Calvados, you gain access to a trusted network of accommodations known for quality and warm hospitality. Our hosts are true ambassadors of their region, eager to share their favorite spots and tips to help you discover Calvados from a unique perspective. With Gîtes de France, enjoy an authentic travel experience with full immersion, backed by our renowned label and commitment to making your stay unforgettable.
Explore Calvados with Gîtes de France®
Book your gîte or bed and breakfast now and set out to discover the treasures of Calvados: the D-Day beaches, bocage landscapes, forests, charming villages, and culinary delights like cider and camembert. Our accommodations are ideally located to offer you an unforgettable getaway, at the heart of Normandy’s history and nature.