Orne

Orne is located in northwestern France, in the Normandy region, with Alençon as its capital. It is a rural, sparsely populated department, with a landscape of hills, forests, and the Regional Natural Park of Normandie-Maine. Its economy combines agriculture, horse breeding (the famous Percheron breed), and small local industries (Alençon lace). Orne is one of France's calmest and least-known departments, with a low cost of living, and is well suited for those who enjoy rural life and green nature.

Alençon, Argentan, Flers

• Pôle universitaire d'Alençon – Campus de Damigny (Université de Caen Normandie / IUT Grand Ouest Normandie) - A university branch offering law, IUT programs, and training centers affiliated with the University of Caen.

Orne is generally a calm, sparsely populated area. Alençon and Argentan have lower crime rates than major cities, but as everywhere, you should keep a closer eye on your belongings around the train station and in the cheapest neighborhoods.

Public transportation relies mainly on regional bus lines and TER trains, which connect Alençon to Caen, Le Mans, and Paris. Within the towns there is a limited local bus network, and a bicycle or car can be very helpful.