Tourism in the Perche
Verneuil-sur-Avre, an ancient 12th century fortified city, has retained an important architectural heritage, the gem of which remains the Sainte-Madeleine church tower, but also ditches and remains of the ramparts, canals, half-timbered houses, churches or private mansions.
Discovery and nature stay in Haute-Normandie
Verneuil-sur-Avre, an ancient 12th century fortified city, spared from the destruction of the Second World War, has retained an important architectural heritage, the gem of which remains the Sainte-Madeleine church tower, along with the ditches and remains of the ramparts, canals, half-timbered houses, churches or private mansions. Every Saturday morning, the colourful market features tasty products from local farmers.
36 km away, the town of Dreux gives the opportunity for a pleasant walk to discover this city in which the historical centre offers a good overview of architecture from the 15th century up until today. Pedestrian streets, lively squares and a covered market will charm you, as will a visit to the very modern Odyssey, the Chapelle Royale [Royal Chapel], or the old Caisse d'Epargne or former Arsenal, both classified as Historical Monuments.
History enthusiasts will be delighted by a visit to Evreux, its cathedral and the Clock Tower, as well as a walk along the Iton river. In the surrounding area, you will find the Gallo-Roman archaeological site of Gisacum, the gardens of Miserey and also the Eglise Saint-Christophe [Saint-Christophe Church]. The Grand Evreux offers a very colourful countryside of forests, rivers and picturesque villages.
For children and more sports-minded people, the leisure park Center Parcs is just 7 km away. On the programme: spa, children's workshops, golf, horse-riding, adventure course etc. Everything for the young and old!
18 km away, you can learn everything about the world of chocolate at the Damville Chocolatrium.
Finally, an hour's drive through beautiful countryside will present a view at each turn. This masterpiece of nature will lead you to Giverny. There you can visit Claude Monet's house and gardens where you can still perceive the intangible presence of the founder of impressionism. A few steps away is the Musée d’Art Américain [American Art Museum], a centre for American impressionism in Europe.
Our selection of activities
Of the many activities and essential discoveries of the Normandy heritage, we particularly recommend :
- Le château de Beaumesnil [Beaumesnil castle]
Located in Eure and classified as a Historical Monument, it is one of the rare examples of a castle dating back to the reign of Louis XIII. This "stone dream", as La Varende described it, is a great place to go for leisure and culture.
- Le Château du Champ de Bataille [Battlefield Castle]
Situated in the district of Le Neubourg, this castle, classified as a Historical Monument, was built for Marshal Créqui in the 17th century. A walk in the "Remarkable garden" is well worth the effort.
- Le Haras national du Pin [The Pin national Stud Farm]
Set in the heart of a green oasis in Orne, this "horse Versailles", jewel of national stud farms, invites you to discover the world of horses through various breeds, people and jobs as well as the exceptional countryside and architectural setting. A walk through the stables and trail route allows you to relive a page of history here, formerly the royal stud farm.