Domfront

Visit Domfront, Normandy

Domfront is found in the Orne department of Normandy, between Argentan and Vire and on the Varenne River.

In the 11th century Domfront was the scene of much action and fighting, since it occupied an important point on the border between Brittany and Normandy. Hence Domfront castle, originally built at the beginning of the 11th century, was much fortified during the decades that followed. Unfortunately much of the castle was destroyed as a result of the Wars of Religion.

Exploring Domfront

In Domfront you can now visit the ruins of the medieval castle. The town itself was also fortified, and many of the towers survive, along with sections of the ramparts, which now provide a good backdrop for the numerous medieval houses and buildings to be seen in Domfront.

Within the fortifications is the old town, an attractive region with narrow cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and some grander townhouses, interspersed with pleasant cafes and open squares.

Another historically interesting building in the town is the 11th century roman style church of Notre-Dame sur l'Eau. The church once formed part of an adjoining abbey, on an important pilgrimage route, and played host to such medieval dignitaries as Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Be sure to venture into the church to see some impressive frescoes and carvings.

Other places of note within Domfront include the grand 19th century town hall; the 20th century church of Saint-Julien (a rather unusual style of architecture, especially for the facade) and the paintings it contains; the ruins of the donjon; and the picturesque village of the tanneries.

From the town you also have an impressive view across the Varenne River valley.

Attractions nearby

When staying here you are well placed to discover the countryside of this part of Normandy. Domfront falls in the western part of the Regional Natural Parc of Normandy-Maine, a quiet unspoiled landscape of rolling hills, forests and streams with many traditional villages to visit.

See Normandy and Orne (the region and department for Domfront) for more travel ideas...

Tourist classifications for Domfront: Village in bloom (ville fleurie) 3*; Recommended detour town (plus beau detour);

Suggested places to visit near Domfront, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Falaise 47km; Fougeres 49km; Argentan 49km;

Domfront tourist information: sights and attractions nearby

Saint-Fraimbault - ville fleurie 4* (12km) : Saint-Loup-du-Gast - ville fleurie 4* (24km) : Normandie-Maine - regional natural parc (33km) : Carrouges Chateau - national monument (36km) : Jardins de la Pellerine - remarkable garden (43km) : Parc et jardin de Clivoy - remarkable garden (44km) : Sassy - remarkable garden (49km) : Parc floral de Haute-Bretagne - remarkable garden (49km) :

See more places and a map at places near Domfront