The Perche

Time seems to stand still in the Perche, and the good life is what it’s all about! There are many activities on offer including discovery tours of the various environmental initiatives in place to secure the park’s future. Walking and cycling in the forest are also a great way to explore the area.

A Regional Nature Park

An ancient historical province, the Perche is characterised by a succession of gentle hills and remarkable centuries-old beech and oak forests around Bellême and in the Réno Valdieu massif. There are 493 species of plants, 75 species of birds and more than 1,100 species of mushrooms! This area is ideal for bucolic, invigorating walks and has been declared a Regional Nature Park, a protected area where traditions are still very much alive, such as the “filet brodé” in the thousand-year-old village of La Perrière and the famous black pudding from Mortagne-au-Perche. The Perche is also a land of mansions, noble residences and the famous Percheron horses. The buildings, with their warm colours ranging from deep ochre to pink, blend harmoniously into the landscape. In many ways, The Perche is the epitome of an authentic and endearing Normandy.

Things to see and do in The Perche

• The Perche is a bargain-hunter’s paradise, known as a destination with plenty of antique dealers, vintage markets and weekend sales. People come here from all over Europe to find the most beautiful furniture and antique treasures. La Perrière, Mortagne au Perche, Bellême…there are many towns and villages where bargain-hunting is a local hobby.

• Mortagne-au-Perche is a characterful little town. Don’t miss the Saint-Denis which backs back to the 12th century, or the old 16th century houses dotted around the town. The Alain Museum pays tribute to the famous philosopher.

• Bellême: This medieval town renowned for its antiques shops and a recognised ‘small Normandy town of character‘ is situated next to a picturesque forest.

• The village of La Perrière: This charming village is well worth a visit for its beautiful old buildings, flea markets and popular La Maison d’Horbé tea room. Built on a hill, it dominates the Perche Regional Natural Park and has become home to many international artists from places like the US, Australian and New Zealand. The Marché d’Art de la Perrière (arts and crafts market) takes place every May.

• Le Manoir de Courboyer: Learn all about how the Perche Regional Natural Park came to be at this 15th-century manor house and listed historic monument, set in 160 acres of beautiful countryside. Soak up some history inside the manor house, follow the signposted walking trail around the grounds and finish up with a refreshing drink and some local farm products at the on-site cafe.

• Écomusée du Perche: This museum’s excellent collection presents rural life in the Perche from the 19th century up to the 1960s, as well of the workshops of craftsmen of yesteryear. There are events and activities held here regularly and temporary exhibitions take place in the priory church.

• La Route des Manoirs et traditions (‘manors and traditions trail): Departing from the town of Nocé, follow 87km of signposted route divided into 21 stops and discover the most beautiful jewels of Percheron architecture. Only about 100 manor houses and stately homes remain of the 400 there used to be in the Perche.

• Muséales de Tourouvre: This museum houses the Maison de l’Émigration française au Canada (French emigration to Canada Museum), for many residents from this area moved there. The theme of emigration is approached from economic, sociological, demographic and genealogical angles.