The best MTB trails around Villeneuve-En-Perseigne

The hour yt hour left

Alençon is the capital of the Orne department and lies on the southern edge of Normandy. It was once very famous for its lace and was therefore known throughout Europe. There is evidence of the existence of the city of Alençon as early as Roman times. In the 11th century, when the Normans secured their duchy to the south, the first fortified settlement was built here. This was later followed by the construction of a mighty castle. The city really achieved economic prosperity around 1650 when Madame La Perrère invented an original lace. It was in no way inferior to the Venetian lace known at the time, but it was considerably cheaper to buy. With the support of Jean-Baptiste Colbert, a royal factory was founded. As a result, more than 8,000 people worked in lace production. The "Point d'Alençon" lace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.

Beautiful climb north of Sarthe

A must-have that is earned by the strength of the calves. But the climb is in a beautiful wooded environment with the gentle field of birds.

This hall created for the grain trade between the end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th century has multiplied roles during its history: hospital during the First World War; host of exhibitions, fairs and markets; and today a center dedicated to new technologies and headquarters of the Cité des Métiers de l'Orne. It is distinguished by its large glass dome inspired by that of the old corn exchange in Paris.

A former 12th century fortified castle, the fortress was gradually destroyed from the 16th century, before being transformed into a prison during the French Revolution. Today, only three towers remain, the gatehouse and the main body. The old courtyards have been requalified to make the current Simone Veil park.

This 30 meter high tower allows you to admire the canopy of the 5,000 hectare forest in which it is located. The plain of Alençon is also visible there. On the site, it is possible to play molki and badminton or to rent bicycles thanks to the equipment provided. The belvedere opening dates and times are available on the following website: https://www.sarthetourisme.com/patrimoine-culturel/belvedere-de-perseigne/

Located in the heart of the Perseigne forest, at a height of 30 meters, the Belvedere is built on the highest point of the Sarthe department, at 340 m. It is certainly not an architectural model, but the large surrounding trees hide this large concrete tube, repainted and decorated in order to better integrate. Thus, you have to go a few meters into the forest from the road to see it. It should be noted that this high point and its panoramic view had already been spotted by the occupying troops: in 1943, the German army had set up a listening post there, and an observatory against Allied aviation. Nothing remains today. The new tower dates from 1964.