Casino du Lac
About Casino du Lac
This Art Deco casino was built in 1927 by architect Albert Bluysen, commissioned by American billionaire Frank Jay Gould as part of his vision to develop luxury tourism in this Normandy spa town. The building features a monumental rotunda entrance hall, large windows flooding the salons with natural light, and panoramic views over Lake Bagnoles-de-l'Orne. Inside, visitors find 155 slot machines, table games including blackjack and roulette, and the 346-seat Cinéma Jean Gabin arthouse theater. The restaurant Le Comptoir JOA offers dining with lake views. Entry is free but requires valid photo ID and proper attire (18+ only). The casino operates daily from 10:00 until late (03:00-04:00 depending on the day).
Interesting Facts
When local authorities refused to name the lake's bridge after Frank Jay Gould, the American billionaire who financed the casino, he permanently left Bagnoles-de-l'Orne and never returned. The bridge remains nameless to this day.
The casino was part of a grand transformation project. Gould hired landscaper Jean Graef to completely redesign the lake's contours and create ornamental French-style rose gardens along its shores, turning the area into an elegant resort destination.
Architect Albert Bluysen, who designed this casino, also created the famous casinos of Le Touquet, Algiers, and Vittel. His signature Art Deco style with geometric forms and monumental rotundas became synonymous with French resort architecture of the 1920s.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
6, avenue Robert Cousin, 61140 Bagnoles-de-l'Orne, France
Day Routes
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