Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Martin-Du-Vieux-Bellême - Top 20

The region is rich in history. You can explore the medieval village of Bellême, known for its cobbled streets, the Saint-Sauveur church, and remnants of castle walls. The parish church of Église Saint-Martin in Saint-Martin-du-Vieux-Bellême, dating back to the 15th century, features 16th-century carved stalls and frescoes. Don't miss the Monthimer Castle, particularly its 15th-century tower, and the Site historique de la Croix Feue Reine, which offers panoramic views and commemorates the 1229 siege of Bellême.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The charming medieval village of Bellême and the picturesque village of La Perrière are great for leisurely strolls. For active families, the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway offers a flat, scenic route perfect for cycling. Horse-drawn carriage rides are also available through the Belleme Attelages association, providing a unique way to see the landscape.

Saint-Martin-du-Vieux-Bellême is nestled within the beautiful Parc Naturel Régional du Perche, offering extensive natural beauty. You can visit the local nature reserve, La réserve des Houles-Blanches, part of the Bois et coteaux calcaires sous Bellême Natura 2000 site, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The nearby Forêt de Bellême is renowned for its majestic oak and beech trees, ideal for nature walks. The larger Forêts et étangs du Perche conservation area also provides a rich natural environment.

For scenic views, head to the Site historique de la Croix Feue Reine, which provides a panoramic outlook over Bellême and the surrounding forest. Additionally, the Éperon site at the exit of La Perrière offers a magnificent view of the Percheron countryside. The Place de l'Europe in Bellême also provides a beautiful perspective of the town's tiled roofs and the Saint-Sauveur church.

Yes, the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway is a popular cycle path that follows an old railway line, offering a route without steep gradients through forests and meadows. For more challenging rides, you can find various cycling routes in the area, including those around Bellême and La Perrière. Explore more options on the Cycling around Saint-Martin-Du-Vieux-Bellême guide.

The La réserve des Houles-Blanches, part of the Natura 2000 site, is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot the Brown hairstreak butterfly, European tree frog, and Hazel dormouse. The broader Bois et coteaux calcaires sous Belleme site also hosts species such as the European stag beetle and European ash, making it a great spot for nature observation.

Absolutely. The Forêt de Bellême and the Parc Naturel Régional du Perche offer numerous opportunities for hiking and running. You can find trails of varying difficulties, including moderate routes like the 'Ancient Oak Trail' or more challenging ones such as the 'Herse Pond – Bellême loop'. For detailed routes, refer to the Running Trails around Saint-Martin-Du-Vieux-Bellême guide.

Beyond traditional hiking and cycling, you can experience cani-rando (dog hiking) in the Bellême forest, where you explore trails with a husky. This unique activity offers a guided walk and interaction with the dogs, providing a memorable outdoor experience in the Perche and Normandy region.

The Église Saint-Martin, the parish church of Saint-Martin-du-Vieux-Bellême, is a significant historical and cultural site. Originally an 11th-century priory, the current church dates to the 15th century. It is notable for its impressive dimensions, 16th-century carved stalls (miséricordes), and a retable. The sacristy preserves remnants of 16th-century frescoes depicting a Crucifixion, the Coronation of the Virgin, adoring angels, and musician devils.

La Perrière is a charming village that has earned the 'Petites Cités de Caractère®' label, recognized for its beautiful houses and distinctive buildings. Strolling through its streets reveals colorful facades and impressive architecture for a village of its size. The Éperon site at the village's edge also offers a magnificent view of the Percheron countryside.

Yes, the area around Saint-Martin-du-Vieux-Bellême offers several mountain biking opportunities, particularly within the Bellême forest and the wider Perche Regional Natural Park. You can find moderate trails like the 'Bellême – Hôtel Bansard-des-Bois loop'. For more options and detailed routes, check out the MTB Trails around Saint-Martin-Du-Vieux-Bellême guide.