Site de l'Eperon and the fôret de Bellême — loop from Bellême

This touring bicycle loop is generally considered moderate and requires good fitness. You'll encounter a mix of terrain: mostly paved surfaces, but also some unpaved sections that can be challenging and might require you to push your bike. The town of Bellême itself, built on a rocky spur, includes some steep slopes. Within the Forêt de Bellême, while there are tranquil roads and even asphalted paths, some parts can be more technical.

The route is approximately 30 km (18.6 miles) long with about 395 meters (1,296 feet) of elevation gain. On average, it takes touring cyclists around 2 hours to complete, but this can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

While specific parking locations aren't detailed, Bellême is the starting and ending point of this loop. You should be able to find parking within the town, which is a common practice for visitors exploring the area. Look for public parking areas near the town center or the Place de l'Europe.

You'll experience a blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Key highlights include the medieval village of Bellême, with its 15th-century porch, colorful facades, and remains of castle walls. The 'Site de l'Eperon' refers to the strategic rocky spur Bellême is built on, offering panoramic views. You'll also cycle through the magnificent Bellême Forest, known for its majestic oak and beech trees, and pass by the serene Étang de la Herse lake, a great spot for a break.

The route offers a unique panorama of the Percheron countryside and the Bellême forest. Expect to see rolling landscapes, charming rural settings, and the dense, beautiful forest with its ancient trees. The town of Bellême itself provides picturesque views of its tiled roofs and the Saint-Sauveur church from various points.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for cycling and allow you to fully appreciate the lush greenery of the forest and the Percheron countryside. Autumn also brings beautiful fall foliage to the Bellême Forest.

Generally, dogs are allowed on trails within the Perche Regional Nature Park, but they should always be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the Perche Regional Nature Park or to cycle this specific loop. The park is open to the public for recreational activities.

Yes, the route intersects with several other trails. You'll find sections that are part of 'L'Orne à Vélo : Bellème', 'L'Orne à Vélo : Des celtes aux bûcherons', and 'L'Orne à Vélo : L’échappée de Sublaine'. The Forêt de Bellême is also crossed by the GR22 long-distance hiking trail, indicating a network of paths in the area.

The loop starts and ends in Bellême, a charming medieval village where you can find cafes and restaurants. The Étang de la Herse within the forest is also an ideal spot for relaxation or a picnic.

Given its 'moderate' difficulty, some unpaved sections, and 'steep slopes' in Bellême, this route might be challenging for absolute beginners or families with very young children. While parts of the forest offer tranquil roads, the overall loop requires good fitness. More experienced cyclists or families with older, fit children might enjoy it more.