Nestled between mountains and forests, this characterful town is a medieval gem in Southern Normandy.
Perched on its rocky promontory, Domfront is a secret town for lovers of half-timbered houses, tasty alleyways and pretty courtyards paved with history. All around, the bocage landscape stretches from marshes and pear orchards to wooded areas ideal for cycling.
A unique medieval heritage
This is one of the few medieval towns in the Orne that has preserved its typical medieval layout. Narrow streets, covered passages and courtyards add to its charm. Here you will find reminders of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Richard the Lionheart and John Lackland, all of whom stayed in this stronghold of Anglo-Norman history. The impressive ruins of Domfront Castle, dating from the 12th century, bear witness to what was a formidable defensive stronghold for the Duchy of Normandy.
Another medieval landmark is the church of Notre-Dame-sur-l’Eau, a jewel of Norman Romanesque art. Its choir has welcomed famous guests such as Louis IX and Louis XI on their pilgrimages to the Mont-Saint-Michel.
The church of Saint-Julien is also worth a visit. It is the only religious building to combine a reinforced concrete structure, a square floor plan and art-deco decoration in a Byzantine style. A word of advice? The Médiévales festival, a major festive and heritage event held every two years, is the ideal opportunity to experience these historic vibrations.
The majesty of Le Poiré
It’s known as the champagne of Normandy! Poiré (Perry) is an AOC speciality from the Domfrontais bocage, made from centuries-old pear trees that are unique in Europe. The Poiré Museum is a good starting point for a tour of the orchards and pear farms. Domfrontais Calvados is also well worth trying. Another AOC speciality, it is unique in that it combines pears and apples. Both drinks are classified as intangible heritage in France. This area of Normandy has more than enough surprises in store for you, as it has been awarded the ‘Site du goût’ label. You’ll love the cheeses, charcuterie and famous ‘Biscuits de l’Abbbaye’ biscuits, all made in Normandy!
Feeling peckish? Stop off at the famous Bar Normand, a tradtional half-timbered Norman house in which you can enjoy thai dishes!
Cycling and tourism
Bring your bike – you’re in for a treat! Domfront is at the crossroads of two major national cycle routes. The first is the Vélo Francette, which links Ouistreham to La Rochelle. Start from the beaches of Normandy and cross the Normandy bocage at the foot of the castle before descending to the Atlantic coast. Or choose the Véloscénie, a spectacular route between Notre-Dame-de-Paris and the majestic Mont-Saint-Michel. Domfront offers accommodation and a hotel with the ‘Accueil vélo’ label for a relaxing stopover. You can enjoy some excellent local produce before getting back on your bike. The region also offers a number of pretty, quiet roads ideal for families, 3 greenways for those who don’t like the hills, and mountain bike trails along hedgerows or in the forest for the sportiest cyclists.