Le Perche

Visit Le Perche, Normandy

Le Perche, and the 'Natural Regional Parc du Perche', is situated around the town of Belleme in the south-east of the Orne department of southern Normandy (also falling around Nogent-le-Rotrou within the neighbouring Eure-et-Loir department).

Exploring the Perche Natural Regional Park

It is the scenic variety and interest that attracts visitors to Le Perche, and there is great diversity to discover among the rolling hills, separated by valleys and small rivers, fields and forests, and with occasional marshland environments.

You will also come across several scenic villages and small towns as you explore, such as Villeray and Mortagne-au-Perche, and manor houses nestling quietly in the landscape, adding further to the charm of the area.

The headquarters for the region is in a 15th century manor house at Courboyer, Nocé.

It is also worth visiting the Ecomusee du Perche to learn more of the history and heritage of this relatively undiscovered region (along with various entertaining activities for the children).You can also visit the lovely Priory of Saint Gauburge (both sites are together, half way between Belleme and Nogent-le-Rotrou).

The countryside and environment of Le Perche lends itself perfectly to a relaxing trip, unwinding in a gentle countryside, walking or cycling on peaceful roads, or perhaps horseriding on one of the famous local 'percheron' horses.

Pre-planned touring routes through Le Perche

Exploring by car is also very pleasant, and the Parc suggest two 'pre-planned routes', one to explore the forests and the other following the small lakes and castles of the region. Each is signposted, less than 100 kilometres long (so cycling the routes in a day is possible), and a good way to explore the area.

You can find the routes and guides to highlights that you will see at Le Perche Forest Route and Le Perche Castles and Lakes (in French but the maps are quite clear even if you don't understand the words).

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

Suggested places to visit near Le Perche, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

Le Perche tourist information: sights and attractions nearby

Perche - regional natural parc (0km) : Jardin de la petite Rochelle - remarkable garden (4km) : Nogent-le-Rotrou - recommended detour (9km) : Le pré Catelan - remarkable garden (35km) :

See more places and a map at places near Le Perche