Rock of Oetre
| Rock of Oëtre | |
|---|---|
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| Highest point | |
| Prominence | 118 m (387 ft) |
| Coordinates | 48°49′43″N 0°22′54″W / 48.8285°N 0.3817°WCoordinates: 48°49′43″N 0°22′54″W / 48.8285°N 0.3817°W |
| Naming | |
| Translation | Roche d'Oëtre (French) |
| Geography | |
 Rock of Oëtre
France
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| Location | Orne, France |
| Parent range | Armorican Massif |
| Geology | |
| Age of rock | Cambrian |
| Mountain type | Metamorphic rock |
The Rock of Oëtre (French: Roche d'Oëtre pronounced [rɔʃ dwatʁ]) is situated in the middle of Norman Switzerland, in the commune of Saint-Philbert-sur-Orne, not far from the border between the départements of Calvados and Orne, and almost equidistant from Thury-Harcourt and Écouché. It is one of the most prestigious lookouts in the west of France.
The reputation of this precipice is founded on its breathtaking sheer drop: 118 metres (387 ft). Neither tourists nor locals expect this kind of natural feature in Normandy. It is considered the most mountainous part of the region, even though not the highest, and it has become, over time, one of the main attractions in Normandy. It is also a popular lookout that gives a broad survey of the wooded groves of the Rouvre, the fast-flowing river in the valley, which can be reached by steps hewn from the rock. The natural surroundings are full with granite rocks, ravines, heath and thicket. Many visitors come to find a calm place for their contemplation and meditation.
On arriving at the summit of the Rock, facing the precipice, one must advance 15 metres (49 ft) or 20 metres (66 ft), to see, on the left, the peculiar feature of the site: the resemblance of a human face in profile. This figure has been characterised as being many different people. One can argue whether it is the rock that forged the character of people over generations, or conversely if the people came to permeate it with the spirit of their nature. The surrounding area served as a natural hiding place for outlaws of all kinds: the "Fairy's Cave" was one of the most secure hiding places for Chouans and highwaymen.
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Wikipedia